K-Traveler
Choose language (current: English)

← All practical info

Payment — foreign cards, contactless and mobile pay, when you need cash

Using foreign credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, AMEX, UnionPay) in Korea, contactless (NFC) payment and Apple Pay caveats, Alipay and WeChat Pay, and where cash is still needed.

Last reviewed: 2026-10

Fares, hours and conditions can change. Check the official sources before you go.

Foreign credit and debit cards

  • Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express and UnionPay cards are accepted at most shops, restaurants and hotels.
  • Before you leave, check with your issuer that overseas use is enabled.
  • Taxis accept foreign cards, but city buses at airports and many regional airports are listed as not accepting foreign-issued credit cards.

Contactless (NFC) payment and Apple Pay

  • Tapping a card or phone only works at terminals showing the contactless mark. Not every shop in Korea has one yet.
  • Mobile wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay also need a contactless terminal. Whether a wallet with a foreign-issued card works in Korea depends on your issuer — check before you travel and always carry the physical card.

Alipay, WeChat Pay and UnionPay

ZeroPay merchants accept Alipay, WeChat Pay and UnionPay. Look for the payment logos at the entrance or counter.

When you need cash

  • Small shops in traditional markets and street stalls may be cash-only.
  • Airport limousine bus tickets must be bought in advance, and some buses do not take cash or foreign cards. A transit card such as T-money is easiest for transport (see Transit cards).
  • A prepaid card for foreigners such as WOWPASS covers both transit and payments.

Also good to know

  • No tip is expected in taxis.
  • For VAT refunds on shopping, see Tax refund.

FAQ

Can I use Apple Pay in Korea?

Only at contactless terminals, and whether a foreign-issued card works depends on your issuer. Check before you travel and bring the physical card.

How much cash should I carry?

Cards work almost everywhere, so you do not need much, but a little cash helps at traditional markets and street stalls.

Can I tap a foreign card on the bus?

Many city buses do not accept foreign-issued credit cards. Use a transit card such as T-money.

Sources