Short answer: Mostly no.
Short answer: Mostly no.
So, do I still need cash in Korea as a tourist in 2026? In most cases, no—Korea is largely cashless, but small amounts of cash are still useful in a few specific situations.
Longer answer: Korea is largely cashless in 2026, but small amounts of cash are still useful in a few specific situations.
Below is exactly when you’ll need cash, when you won’t, and what most tourists use instead.
When You Don’t Need Cash
For most everyday travel situations, cards and prepaid travel cards are widely accepted.
You usually don’t need cash for:
- Convenience stores and cafés
- Restaurants in cities
- Public transportation
- Taxis and ride-hailing apps
- Shopping malls and chain stores
Many tourists rely on prepaid travel cards instead of carrying cash. If you’re comparing options, our WOWPASS vs NAMANE guide explains which card fits different travel styles.
When Cash Is Still Useful
There are a few cases where having some cash helps:
- Traditional street markets and small food stalls
- Very small local shops in older neighborhoods
- Rural areas outside major cities
- Emergency situations (network issues, device battery)
You don’t need much—a small backup amount is usually enough.
How Most Tourists Pay in Korea (2026)
Common payment methods:
- International credit/debit cards
- Prepaid travel cards (transport + shopping)
- Mobile payments (limited for short-term visitors)
Cash vs Card vs Prepaid Cards in Korea
| Payment Method | Widely Accepted? | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash | ⚠️ Limited | Small markets, emergencies | Not needed for most daily travel |
| Credit/Debit Card | ✅ Yes | Restaurants, shopping, taxis | International cards widely accepted |
| Prepaid Travel Cards | ✅ Yes | Transport + daily spending | Popular with short-term visitors |
For transportation specifically, many visitors use prepaid cards instead of cash. If you’re new to transit, see How to Use a T-money Card in Korea to understand how fares and gates work.
Should You Carry Cash at All?
Recommendation:
Carry a small amount of cash, but don’t rely on it.
A practical setup for most travelers:
- Prepaid card for daily spending
- Card payments where accepted
- Cash only as a backup
If you need to withdraw money, foreign cards generally work at major machines. This guide explains How to Use a Korean ATM as a Foreigner and what fees to expect.
Quick Summary
- Do you need cash? Mostly no
- Is cash useless? No—keep a small backup
- Best approach? Card + prepaid card + minimal cash
This setup covers nearly all travel situations in Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
Q: Is Korea completely cashless now?
A: No. Korea is very card-friendly, but small vendors and markets may still require cash.
Q: Can tourists use cards everywhere in Korea?
A: Almost everywhere in cities, but not always at small stalls or rural locations.
Q: Is it safe to carry cash in Korea?
A: Yes, Korea is generally safe, but carrying large amounts is unnecessary.
Q: How much cash should I bring to Korea?
A: A small backup amount is enough if you mainly use cards or prepaid travel cards.
Q: Can tourists withdraw cash easily in Korea?
A: Yes. Most tourists can withdraw cash from major ATMs in Korea using international cards, especially at airports and large bank branches.
Q: Are street markets in Korea cash-only?
A: Some small street vendors still prefer cash, but many now accept cards or prepaid travel cards. Cash is helpful, but not always required.
Q: Do I still need cash in Korea for street food?
A: In most cases, no. Many street vendors now accept cards or prepaid travel cards, but having a small amount of cash can still be helpful at traditional markets.
Disclaimer
This article provides general travel guidance. Payment acceptance can vary by location and situation. Always be prepared with multiple payment options.