Money

Cash, cards, ATMs, tax refunds and tipping.

• Cash or Card in Korea: ATMs, Exchange, WOWPASS, TransitCards are accepted at most hotels, department stores and general shops, but carry some won for small shops, traditional markets and street stalls. Withdraw cash at ATMs marked Global. You still cannot tap a foreign card at Seoul transit gates, so use a transit card such as T-money, Climate Card or WOWPASS.Checked October 5, 2026
• Korea Tax Refund for Tourists: Limits, Kiosks, DeadlinesSpend ₩15,000 or more on one receipt at a Tax Free or Tax Refund store. Purchases under ₩1,000,000 can be refunded at the till, up to ₩5,000,000 per trip. Larger purchases are claimed at the airport after customs confirms you are taking the goods out within 3 months.Checked October 5, 2026
• Tipping in Korea: Do You Tip, and What Service Charges MeanYou do not need to tip in Korea. Seoul's official tourism site says tipping is not a Korean custom and staff do not expect it. Some major hotels and upscale restaurants add a 10% service charge on top of the 10% VAT, so read the bill rather than adding extra.Checked October 5, 2026