How to Use Korean ATMs with Foreign Cards

 



👋 Introduction

One of the first things many travelers worry about when arriving in Korea is: “Can I withdraw money with my foreign card?” Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Figuring out how to use ATMs in Korea can feel confusing at first because not every machine accepts international cards. In this guide, I’ll show you how to find the right ATMs, what fees to expect, and step-by-step tips so you can confidently withdraw cash during your Korean trip.





💳 Which ATMs Accept Foreign Cards?

Not all ATMs in Korea are international-friendly, but the good news is that you can easily find ones that are. Look for machines with signs showing “Global ATM”, “Plus”, “Cirrus”, or “Maestro”. These ATMs usually allow withdrawals with Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, UnionPay, and sometimes American Express.

  • Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven, CU, and GS25 often have international ATMs that operate 24/7.
  • Major Banks: Shinhan Bank, KB Kookmin Bank, Woori Bank, Hana Bank, and NH Bank provide foreign card services at many branches.
  • Airports & Train Stations: Incheon Airport, Gimpo, and Seoul Station always have Global ATMs ready for travelers.





🗓 Step-by-Step Guide to Withdrawing Cash

  1. Find a Global ATM – Look for English-language options or the “Global” sticker on the machine.
  2. Insert Your Card – The machine will prompt you to select your language (English, Chinese, Japanese are usually available).
  3. Select Transaction Type – Choose “Withdrawal” or “Cash Advance.”
  4. Enter Amount – Amounts are in Korean won (KRW). Most machines allow ₩10,000 increments.
  5. Confirm Fees – You’ll usually see the withdrawal fee before confirming. (₩3,000–₩6,000 per transaction is common.)
  6. Take Your Cash & Receipt – Don’t forget your card—machines return it last!





💸 Fees & Limits

Fees vary depending on your home bank and the Korean ATM. Expect a local fee of about ₩3,000–₩6,000 per withdrawal, plus any charges from your bank. Daily withdrawal limits are usually ₩700,000–₩1,000,000 (about $520–$750 USD). To save on fees, withdraw larger amounts less frequently.





👍 Pro Tips for Travelers

  • Always Carry Some Cash – Korea is highly digital, but small restaurants and traditional markets often prefer cash.
  • Use Airport ATMs First – You’ll find plenty of Global ATMs at Incheon Airport, making it easy to withdraw money as soon as you arrive.
  • Bring Multiple Cards – Some cards may not work on certain networks. Having a backup Visa or Mastercard helps.
  • Check Your Bank’s Travel Settings – Let your home bank know you’re traveling to Korea to avoid declined transactions.
  • Consider a Travel Money Card – Prepaid travel cards often have lower fees than regular debit/credit cards.





👜 Alternative Payment Options

Besides ATMs, you can also use:

  • T-money Card – Perfect for buses, subways, and even convenience stores. 👉 Don’t forget to purchase a T-money card when you arrive.
  • Mobile Payments – Samsung Pay, KakaoPay, and Naver Pay are widely used, though setting them up usually requires a Korean bank account.
  • Currency Exchange – Banks and airport counters offer safe exchange services if you prefer cash.





✨ Conclusion

Using Korean ATMs with a foreign card may feel intimidating at first, but once you know where to go and what to look for, it’s simple and stress-free. Just remember to find a Global ATM, check your fees, and always have a backup payment option. With these tips, you’ll never have to worry about running out of cash during your Korea trip.

Have you tried withdrawing cash in Korea with your foreign card before? Share your experience below—I’d love to hear your story!





🏷️ Labels

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Note: Information may vary slightly depending on ATM location and your bank’s policy. Please use this guide as a reference only.







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