Welcome to South Korea, a Cashless Society!

South Korea is one of the most credit card-friendly countries in the world. In most shops, restaurants, and cafes, card payments overwhelmingly dominate cash transactions, and it's common for places to not even accept cash. If you're a foreign tourist visiting Korea, it's a good idea to be aware of this before you travel.

💳 Card Usage is a Must, Cash is an Option!

In Korea, using credit or debit cards is an everyday occurrence. From small local eateries to large shopping malls, you can use your card almost everywhere. Even some street vendors are increasingly accepting card payments.

💡 Where card usage is convenient:

• Most Restaurants and Cafes: Nearly all restaurants and cafes accept card payments. In fact, paying with cash might sometimes cause delays or inconvenience for staff.
• Large Franchises and Convenience Stores: Big franchises like Starbucks and McDonald's, as well as convenience stores, often accept mobile payments like Samsung Pay and LG Pay, and many now also accept Apple Pay. However, this is mainly limited to larger establishments that support NFC payments.
• Supermarkets, Department Stores, Shopping Malls: Card payments are, of course, the primary method.
• Taxis, Public Transportation (when topping up T-Money card): Taxis accept card payments, and it's common to use a card to top up your T-Money card for subway and bus use.

⚠️ When you might need cash (Exceptions):

While Korea is close to being a 'cashless society,' there are still a few exceptional situations where cash is necessary. It's advisable to carry a small amount of cash when traveling.

• Pocha (Street Food Stalls) and Street Vendors: Many traditional Korean street food stalls (Pocha) and some street vendors still only accept cash. Especially for small stalls tucked away in alleys, it's safer to assume they only take cash. This is often due to operational reasons, such as difficulties in issuing cash receipts.
• Some Shops in Traditional Markets: While many traditional markets have modernized, some older shops or small stalls might still only handle cash.
• Small Independent Shops: Very occasionally, a tiny independent cafe or shop might not have a card reader or prefer cash payments. However, this is quite rare.

📱 Apple Pay and Mobile Payments?

While Samsung Pay and LG Pay are very common in Korea, Apple Pay was only introduced in 2023 and its acceptance is still limited. Apple Pay can be used in large franchises, department stores, and convenience stores where NFC terminals are installed, but for most small local shops, presenting a physical credit card is still more common.

📝 Summary and Tips:

1. Prepare your credit/debit card as your primary payment method. International cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted.
2. Carry a small amount of cash (approx. 50,000 ~ 100,000 KRW) for emergencies. This is mainly useful for street food stalls or specific street vendors.
3. Exchange minimal cash or use ATMs when needed. Global ATMs are well-distributed throughout cities.
4. Be aware that mobile payments might only be available in larger establishments. Apple Pay users, in particular, should note this.

Card usage in Korea is highly convenient and efficient. We hope this guide helps you have a more enjoyable and smarter trip to Korea!