Most places in Korea accept credit and debit cards, so you may not need much cash during your trip. Still, there may be times when you unexpectedly need some.
Many travelers prepare Korean won before their trip or withdraw cash at the airport after arriving. But if you didn’t have a chance to do that, you can also withdraw cash from an ATM in Korea.
The important thing to know is that not every ATM accepts foreign-issued cards.
In this guide, I’ll explain how to find the right ATM and withdraw cash in Korea, based on the way I normally use ATMs here.
Step 1. Find an ATM That Accepts Foreign Cards
Not every ATM in Korea supports withdrawals with foreign-issued cards.
Look for ATMs with signs such as Global, Foreign Card, or International. You may also see international card network logos on the machine.
If you need cash, the airport is one of the easiest places to withdraw it because there are usually plenty of ATMs available.
If you’ve already left the airport, you can find ATMs at most bank branches throughout Korea.
Convenience stores also have ATMs, but I usually recommend trying a bank ATM first. Convenience store ATMs may charge higher fees, and some machines may not support your card.
Step 2. Choose Your Language
When you arrive at the ATM, look for the language option.
On the ATM shown above, you can select Global Service (Other Languages) in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
After choosing English or another available language, you can continue with the transaction.
Two of the most useful options are:
- Withdrawal – to withdraw cash
- Balance Inquiry – to check your account balance
The exact wording and screen layout may be slightly different depending on the bank and ATM.
Step 3. Withdraw Cash
Select Withdrawal and enter the amount of cash you want to take out.
After the transaction, the ATM may ask whether you would like to print a receipt.
You don’t necessarily need one, but you can print it if you’d like to keep a record of the transaction or check the details afterward.
Step 4. Check the Fees
Fees are probably the most important thing to check when withdrawing cash overseas.
Exchange rates and different types of fees can make the final cost feel a little complicated.
If you have a travel card that offers low-cost or fee-free overseas ATM withdrawals, such as Travel Wallet or Travel Log, it may help reduce some of these costs.
If not, you may be charged several different fees, such as a foreign transaction fee from your card issuer, an overseas cash withdrawal fee, and an ATM operator fee.
Because the total cost depends on your card and the ATM you use, always check the fee shown on the screen before confirming the withdrawal.
Step 5. Take Your Card and Cash
Once you’ve selected the amount and confirmed the withdrawal, wait for the ATM to finish processing the transaction.
On many Korean bank ATMs, you may need to take your card first before the cash is dispensed.
Make sure you take your card when prompted, and then don’t forget to collect your cash as well.
The order can vary depending on the ATM, so it’s best to follow the instructions on the screen until the transaction is completely finished.
Once you have your cash, you’ll probably still use your card for most everyday purchases in Korea.
For more information, you can also check my previous guide on how to pay by card in different places in Korea.
Step 6. What If Your Card Doesn’t Work?
The first thing to check is whether the ATM supports Global or International cards.
Most major bank ATMs offer this option, but there are still some machines that may not accept foreign-issued cards.
You should also check whether:
- your card allows overseas ATM withdrawals
- you have reached your daily withdrawal limit
- you entered the correct PIN
- your bank has blocked overseas transactions
If everything looks correct but the card still doesn’t work, try another ATM or a different bank.
Local Tips
- Bank ATMs are usually the easiest option. Many ATM areas remain available even after normal bank counter hours.
- Convenience store ATMs may charge higher fees, so I usually try a bank ATM first when possible.
- You usually don’t need to carry a large amount of cash in Korea because cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- Some bank ATMs have small envelopes nearby. You can use one after withdrawing cash if you need it.
I wrote this guide based on my own experience in Korea, hoping it will make your trip a little easier.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by email.