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Are you thinking of going to South Korea in the near future? Here’s a brief summary of the currency and payment alternatives you’ll have during your stay, so you can be well-prepared.
Currency in South Korea
In South Korea, the official currency is the South Korean won, denoted by the currency code KRW and represented by the symbol ₩. The frequently used banknote denominations include 1,000₩, 5,000₩, 10,000₩, and 50,000₩.
Payment Options When Traveling to South Korea
When you travel to South Korea, be prepared to handle your accommodation and dining expenses, along with covering transportation costs and any souvenirs you’d like to bring back. The following payment options are widely accepted in South Korea:
- Cash: You can use cash to pay for most things in South Korea. The currency is the won, which comes in paper notes of 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 as well as coins worth ₩10, 100, and 500. Be sure to have plenty of small change on hand for purchases such as coffee or snacks from street vendors.
- Credit cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in South Korea, especially in larger cities like Seoul and Busan. Major international credit card networks like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are commonly used. Be sure to notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage abroad, and check for any foreign transaction fees that may apply.
- Mobile Payment Apps: South Korea is known for its advanced technology, and mobile payment apps are commonly used. The two most prominent options are Samsung Pay and KakaoPay. Both can be used to make purchases at many retail outlets and restaurants.
Buy an RFID-Blocking Wallet for South Korea Travel
RFID-blocking wallets serve as a protective barrier against unauthorized access to your credit card data while you’re on the go.
RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. An RFID-blocking wallet prevents identity theft by blocking radio waves.
There are many types of RFID-blocking wallets on Amazon, so it’s easy to find one that will fit your style and budget.
If you’re not sure what kind of RFID wallet is best for you, we recommend the FurArt Credit Card Wallet. This wallet features 13 card slots, 2 cash pockets, and an RFID blocking lining — a great gift for the man or woman on the go!
