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Quick answer: The currency used in South Korea is the South Korean won (KRW), commonly shown as ₩.
CurrencySouth Korean won
CodeKRW
Symbol₩
How to pay in South Korea
South Korea uses the won. VisitKorea notes that credit cards are widely used at hotels, department stores and general shops. A card can handle much of a city trip, but some small businesses and transport-related purchases still make local cash useful.
Cash, ATMs and exchange
ATMs and currency-exchange services are available in major travel areas. Check international-card compatibility and fees before withdrawing, and keep a second payment method in case one network is declined.
A local payment detail worth knowing
Transportation cards such as Tmoney are useful on public transport. Some card products or reload methods may require Korean-won cash, so carrying a small amount can make arrival and transit setup easier.
Before you travel
- Check whether your card charges foreign-transaction or ATM fees.
- Keep a backup payment method separate from your main wallet.
- When an ATM or terminal offers to convert the charge into your home currency, compare the rate before accepting.
Do not depend on a single mobile wallet; an international card plus a little won gives you a better backup plan.
Useful travel-money gear
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Official reference: VISITKOREA — Korean currency & exchange