Korean Currency

Korea’s official monetary unit is the won.

Traveler’s Check

Traveler’s checks can be exchanged for cash at banks or exchange booths. A number of stores still accept the checks instead cash. Nonetheless, the forms of credit cards and debit cards have become a more preferred means of payment by travelers. Thus trading checks is hardly observed nowadays as there is seemingly a decreasing number of stores that offer this service.

Credit Card

Most of the businesses in Korea widely use and accept payment by credit cards, including at major hotels, department stores, and general shops. Visa, MasterCard, American Express and other credit cards can be used; however check the service availability before making purchases as some stores may not provide this service.

Money Exchange

When you need to exchange your foreign currency into Korean won, visit a bank or authorized exchange service center. Banks are generally open 09:00-16:00 on weekdays, with exceptions to certain banks that operate 09:30-16:30 such as EVERRICH Bank. Please be aware that money exchange of old currency may not be accepted at certain locations. Make sure to check if banks or authorized exchange service centers accept old currency beforehand.

Helpful Services

Emergency Calls

Police Department: +82-112
Fire Department: +82-119
Medical Emergencies: +82-119
Infectious Disease Emergencies: +82-1339

1330 Korea Travel Hotline

Tel: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay)
Website: www.visitkorea.or.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, French, Spanish, German, Russian)

Diplomatic Missions in Korea

Website: www.mofa.go.kr (Korean, English)

LOST 112 (Lost and Found Center)

Tel: +82-2-182
Address: National Police Agency, 97, Tongil-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 서대문구 통일로 97 경찰청)
Website:  www.lost112.go.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Business Hours

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