Mostly no — Korea is one of the most card-friendly countries on Earth, and even street stalls increasingly take cards. Keep ₩50,000–100,000 in cash for traditional markets, small eateries and topping up your T-money card.
Foreign cards work in most shops, but some local web checkouts require Korean cards — that's when convenience-store cash payment or a prepaid travel card (WOWPASS, T-money) helps.
🙋 People also ask
Can I use foreign credit cards everywhere in Korea?
Visa and Mastercard work at nearly all shops, restaurants and convenience stores like CU and GS25. Amex and Discover are spottier, and some smaller vendors only accept Korean cards, so carry a backup Visa or a little cash for traditional markets like Gwangjang.
How do I pay for the subway and buses in Seoul?
Buy a rechargeable T-money card (₩2,500–4,000) at any convenience store or station machine and tap on. Since 2023 you can also tap a contactless Visa/Mastercard directly on Seoul subway gates, and many travelers now use the WOWPASS card, which doubles as a prepaid Visa.
Where can I exchange money or withdraw cash in Korea?
Use the airport's no-fee exchange counters or city WOWPASS kiosks for the best rates. For ATM withdrawals, choose Global ATMs at CU/GS25 stores or Citibank, which accept foreign cards; expect a roughly ₩3,000–5,000 fee per withdrawal.
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