Onsite Currency
Denomination
- For the bus and vending machines, only 1000-won bill and coins can be used.
- Homepage of the Bank of Korea:
ATM
Foreign issued ATM cards may have limited use at ATMs in different countries. Please refer to your bank for more information.
* “HanNet” ATM: Most foreign cards (VISA/PLUS, MASTER/CIRRUS, DINERS, JCB, AMEX) are accepted 24 hours a day. You may find these ATMs in Seoul Subway Line stations. Sometimes, convenience stores like LG25, Mini Stop, and Buy the Way may also offer ATMs as well. Hotels, bus terminals, highway rest areas and shopping malls are some other places to look for “HanNet” ATMs.
* Some bank branches may be equipped with Global ATMs that allow the use of foreign cards. Most ATMs are available between 8:00am.~10:00pm.
Credit Cards
Most restaurants, hotels, and shops accept credit cards. You may not be able use credit cards at small businesses and in rural areas. You may also want to check whether your credit card is accepted or not by looking at the door signs. Visa and Master Card are the most commonly accepted credit cards.
VAT
Value-Added Tax (VAT) is levied on most goods and services at a standard rate of 10%. This tax is included in the retail price. In tourist hotels, this 10% tax applies to rooms, meals and other services and is included in the bill.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Korea. Sometimes, expensive restaurants and luxury hotels may add a service charge of 10%. So, it is not necessary to leave a tip since it will be included in the bill.
