Step 1 Before you fly

Cash, cards and exchange

Cards work in most places. Here is where cash still helps, and how to get it without stress.

Do this first

Keep some won for your transport card

T-money says some top-up machines take cash only, and cash is the most reliable way to top up at convenience stores and many subway stations.

Some Seoul city buses don't take cash at all (183 routes in January 2026). Get a transport card before your first bus.

ATMs that take foreign cards are common. Look for a Global sign or the logo of your card network on the machine.

Banks give the best rates. They are open 9:00–16:00 on weekdays.
Outside bank hours, use a government-certified exchange booth. Visit Seoul says to avoid booths that aren't certified.

WOWPASS: a prepaid card for visitors with a T-money transport card built in. Top up in the app with a foreign card or wallet, or with cash at WOWPASS machines (16 currencies). The machines also exchange money.
MobileTmoney (iPhone): a transport card in Apple Wallet. Top up with Mastercard, Amex, UnionPay or JCB. Visa isn't on the list.
Your home wallet: Alipay, PayPay, GCash, Touch 'n Go and others pay by QR at Zero Pay shops (Alipay+).

Tap a card to hear it in Korean. Tap ⤢ to show it big.

Official pages, checked 2026-10-23.