Is cash still widely used?
Not much. South Korea is among the world’s most card-friendly countries. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at the vast majority of restaurants, shops, convenience stores, and transport services. Kakao Pay and Samsung Pay are also widely used by locals.
Cash is still useful for traditional markets (like Namdaemun or Gwangjang), some street food vendors, and tipping (though tipping is not customary in Korea).
ATMs and withdrawing cash
Global ATMs (marked with a globe icon) at convenience stores like GS25 and CU accept foreign cards 24/7. Korea Exchange Bank ATMs also work well for foreign cards.
- Fees are low, typically around 3,000 KRW per withdrawal
- Woori and Shinhan Bank ATMs can also accept foreign cards in major cities
- ATM availability is excellent across the country
Card acceptance
Outstanding. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost universally in cities and tourist areas. Even many smaller local restaurants accept cards. Traditional markets are the main exception.
Tips for travelers
- T-money cards are rechargeable cards for metro, bus, and taxis — very convenient and worth getting
- Keep some small won notes for traditional markets and pojangmacha (street food tents)
- Korea is very safe with low risk of card fraud
- Currency exchange kiosks in Myeongdong, Seoul often offer excellent rates for cash exchanges