What Currency Does South Korea Use?
Facts last checked 31 August 2026.
Exchange rate (approximate):
1 USD ≈ 1,502 KRW
1 GBP ≈ 2,013 KRW
Rates are indicative (July 2026) and change daily. Always check live rates before travelling. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
Travel Money Card
Travelling to South Korea? Avoid poor airport exchange rates — a prepaid travel money card or multi-currency card usually gets you a far better deal on South Korean won spending.
What is money called in South Korea?
Money in South Korea is called the South Korean won — its ISO 4217 currency code is KRW, and its symbol is ₩. The South Korean won is the official legal tender in South Korea and is used for all everyday transactions — from paying for goods and services to converting money at banks and exchange bureaus. When travelling, you may also see it referred to as the South Korea currency or simply money in South Korea.
Is the South Korean won used anywhere else?
No — South Korea is the only country on this site using the South Korean won as its official currency.
Practical money tips for South Korea
Card payments are widely accepted in most cities, but it's still worth carrying some South Korean won in cash for smaller vendors, local transport and rural areas. Notify your bank before travelling to avoid transactions being blocked, and compare card fees — many cards charge a foreign transaction fee that a dedicated travel money card avoids.
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Money essentials for South Korea
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South Korea currency — FAQ
What is the currency of South Korea?
The currency of South Korea is the South Korean won (currency code: KRW, symbol: ₩).
What is the currency code for South Korea?
The ISO 4217 currency code for the South Korean won is KRW.
What is the South Korean won symbol?
The symbol for the South Korean won is ₩. You will see this on price tags and receipts throughout South Korea.
What currency is used in South Korea?
The official currency used in South Korea is the South Korean won (KRW).
Can I use US dollars in South Korea?
The official currency of South Korea is the South Korean won, not the US dollar. While USD may be accepted in some tourist hotels and major cities, you will generally get better rates paying in South Korean won and should exchange money before or on arrival.
What is the exchange rate for South Korea?
As of July 2026, approximately 1 USD = 1,502 KRW and 1 GBP = 2,013 KRW. Rates change daily — always check a live source before travelling or sending money.
What is money called in South Korea?
Money in South Korea is called the South Korean won (KRW).
Do other countries use the South Korean won?
No — South Korea is the only country on this site using the South Korean won as its official currency.
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