Which payment method is best for visitors to Korea?

Most visitors can pay almost anywhere in Korea with a card, but the cost depends on the fees your bank or card issuer charges and the exchange rate applied. Three options are commonly used: a prepaid travel card such as WOWPASS, an international credit card, and cash. As of October 2026, the official VisitKorea portal does not list specific card fees or exchange rates, so confirm these with each provider.

What is WOWPASS?

WOWPASS is a prepaid card that lets travelers exchange accepted foreign currencies into Korean won and spend them at stores, according to the WOWPASS website. The app shows your balance and sends a notification for each payment, and you can pause the card right away if it is lost or stolen. It can also work as a transportation card, and you can top up the transit balance in the app.

What does WOWPASS cost to use?

Reviews posted on the WOWPASS website mention a 1,000 KRW fee per withdrawal and say card payments carry fees that vary with the exchange rate. One user review puts the transportation card at 4,000 to 8,000 KRW. Because these figures come from user reviews, check the current fee table in the app before you load money.

Where can you use cards in Korea?

The WOWPASS site says the card is accepted at convenience stores, restaurants, bars, and boutiques, and that some stores offer cashback. Card acceptance is wide in Seoul and other cities, but small markets and rural shops may still prefer cash.

How much Korean won should you carry?

The official sources available do not give a fixed daily cash amount, so plan based on your own budget. Keep a modest amount of won for markets, small vendors, and transit top-ups, and rely on a card for most larger purchases.

For international fans

If you are visiting for a concert or a drama location tour, expect to pay for tickets, merchandise, and food with a card in most venues. Check the VisitKorea site or call the 1330 Korea Travel Hotline for travel help during your trip. Prices and exchange rates change, so verify them as of your travel dates.