Should I carry cash in South Korea?

Yes, you need some cash in South Korea, mainly for small vendors, traditional markets, and topping up public transport cards (T-Money), though cards are widely accepted in most restaurants, shops, and hotels. Korea is increasingly cashless, but cash is essential for specific situations where digital payments aren't possible, so carrying a mix of cards and Won (KRW) is best.

Should I get cash before going to Korea?

You will need cash for street food, markets and to top up your transport card unless you're planning on taking uber/cars everywhere. For everything else, card is fine. I would recommend having Korean won on hand before you arrive but getting cash from ATMs are not too much of a hassle as well.

Does South Korea prefer cash or card?

South Koreans prefer cashless payment methods, especially credit cards, which are used in nearly 60% of transactions. Together with debit cards, they account for around 70% of all payments. Mobile wallets are gaining popularity and are expected to become the dominant payment method in the coming years.

How much cash to carry to South Korea?

There are no major currency restrictions for travellers entering or leaving South Korea, but amounts over USD10,000 (or the equivalent in other currencies) must be declared to customs on arrival or departure. This includes cash and bearer bonds.

How do tourists pay in South Korea?

💳💸📱 A lot of visitors are surprised by how card friendly and mobile friendly Korea is. In most cities, you can tap a credit or debit card for restaurants, cafés, big shops, and even many smaller places. Mobile payments like Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, and local apps are also common, especially with younger people.

MUST DO things at the airport | Public transit, T-Money card, PCR, SIM card, and AirBnB Honey tips!

What is the yellow rule in Korea?

On August 24, 2025, South Korea's National Assembly voted to approve amendments to the Trade Union and Labour Relations Adjustment Act (the “Act”), also known as the “Yellow Envelope Act.” The reform, long resisted by prior governments and business groups, expands the scope of who qualifies as an “employer,” broadens ...

What is the 4B rule in South Korea?

The 4B movement is a lifestyle choice for women, rejecting four traditional expectations: marriage, childbirth, dating, and sex with men. The 4B ideology first emerged in South Korea around 2015, following the rise of 'Megalia', a radical feminist online community.

What are some strict rules in South Korea?

Tourists in South Korea are subject to the same laws as locals. Some important laws to be aware of include the strict anti-drug policy, with severe penalties for possession or use of illegal substances. Smoking is prohibited in many public places, including restaurants, bars, and public transportation.

Should I use Visa or Mastercard in Korea?

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted networks in South Korea. We highly recommend informing your bank and credit card company of your travel. Otherwise, your transaction attempt might get denied and flagged as fraudulent activity.

Do Koreans use a lot of cash?

That means 90% of the time, people pay with cards or mobile apps – not paper money. So if you're heading here soon, here's what you need to know about navigating Korea's increasingly cash-free lifestyle – and the few rare situations where cash might still come in handy.

How to ask if they accept a card in Korean?

💳🇰🇷 Learn the short and handy phrase “카드 돼요?” (Do you take credit cards?). And watch a short dialogue where one person asks if a place accepts credit cards, and the other responds with '네, 카드 돼요' (Yes, we do) or '아니요, 카드 안 돼요' (No, we don't). Perfect for your next shopping trip in Korea!

What not to do in South Korea as a tourist?

What Not to Do in Seoul on Your 1st Visit

• Only staying in Myeongdong or Dongdaemun.
• Skipping Seoul's natural attractions.
• Talking loudly on public transportation.
• Using one hand to receive/give something.
• Sitting on subway seats reserved for the elderly/pregnant women.
• Wearing shoes inside someone's home.

Do I need cash in South Korea in 2025?

Carry cash to avoid fees: Using debit or credit cards abroad often incurs foreign transaction fees and poor exchange rates.

How much money is enough for 2 weeks in South Korea?

If you want to spend two weeks in South Korea, you can expect to spend around $2,000 per person, not including the cost of flights between your home country and Seoul. Note that this is an average: It's possible to travel in Korea on less than this, and fairly easy to overshoot such a figure.

What is the most feminist country in the world?

Iceland. Iceland is the single most gender-equal country in the world... Iceland is arguably the most feminist and gender-equal country in the world.

What is the age rule in Korea?

South Korea's Age System Explained

In the traditional “Korean age” system, everyone is considered 1 year old at birth and gains another year every January 1st, regardless of their actual birthday. As of 2023, the international age system (age increases on your birthday) is now the legal and social standard.

Can a woman marry a woman in Korea?

The Republic of Korea (ROK) government does not recognize same-sex marriages.

Can you wear red in Korea?

Can we wear red? While there are no particular color restrictions in South Korea, your question makes sense. Koreans are a collectivist society and until recently quite homogeneous. They do not like to stand out and wear mostly black, white, blue.

What color means good luck in Korea?

Hong (Red): Hong represents fire and conveys meanings of passion, energy, luck. Red, frequently used in traditional Korean weddings and celebrations, symbolizes vitality and joy.

Who pays for the meal in Korea?

When dining in a restaurant, it is considered polite for one person to pay the entire bill. It will often be the person who is younger or subordinate to the rest of the group. Sometimes the person paying is the person who suggested going to eat in the first place.

Should I exchange money before I travel to South Korea?

plenty of ATM's and money changers at the airport on arrival, so purchasing KRW before leaving home is not really necessary. If you do wish to change money before you arrive, be aware that the rates are not likely to be as good as those you will get in South Korea so it is probably worth changing as little as possible.