South Korea Travel Money Guide

South Korea is the opposite of Japan when it comes to money — it's one of the most card-friendly countries on earth. You'll tap a card far more often than you'll hand over cash, so the trick is bringing enough won for the few places that still want it, without over-exchanging an expensive currency.

When to exchange

The won trades in the thousands against the ringgit, so KL changers usually quote it per 100 KRW — read the rate carefully. It can swing more than the regional currencies, so watch the trend for a week or two before you fly rather than exchanging the day you book.

Tip: Exchange a base amount of cash in KL, then lean on your card for the rest. If you run short, the exchange booths in Myeongdong (Seoul) post some of the best in-country rates.

How much cash to bring

A rough daily budget for a comfortable mid-range trip:

• Food — ₩25,000–45,000/day (a hearty meal runs ₩8,000–12,000)
• Local transport — ₩3,000–6,000/day on the subway with a T-money card
• Attractions — ₩10,000–25,000/day

Where to exchange in KL

These three changers currently post the best KRW rates. Tap to see their branches and live rates:

Payment tips on the ground

• Tap your card almost everywhere — shops, cafés, taxis and even most street stalls take cards.
• Get a T-money card — buy it at any convenience store; it covers subways, buses and small purchases.
• Keep some cash for traditional markets — Gwangjang and older market stalls are still cash-only.
• Don't tip — it isn't customary and can cause confusion; the price you see is the price you pay.