Many travelers visiting Korea wonder whether they need to carry cash during their trip.
Korea is one of the most card-friendly countries in the world, but there are still situations where cash can be useful.
Can You Use Credit Cards in Korea?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Korea.
Most places accept cards, including:
- restaurants
- cafes
- hotels
- convenience stores
- department stores
International cards such as Visa and Mastercard usually work without problems.
When Do You Need Cash?
Although cards are widely used, cash may still be needed in some situations.
Examples include:
- small street food vendors
- traditional markets
- small local shops
It is usually a good idea to carry a small amount of cash.
How Much Cash Should You Carry?
Most travelers only need about 50,000 to 100,000 KRW in cash for small purchases.
Large payments are normally made with cards.
Using Transportation Cards
For public transportation, many travelers use a transportation card such as T-money.
It makes subway and bus travel much easier.
Conclusion
Korea is a very card-friendly country, and most travelers can pay with credit cards almost everywhere. However, carrying a small amount of cash is still useful for markets, street food, and small shops.
If you plan to use public transportation in Korea, you may want to learn how to use a T-money card.