You can withdraw Korean won from many ATMs in South Korea, but not every machine accepts cards issued overseas. Look for an ATM marked “Global ATM” or “Foreign Card,” or one displaying your card network’s logo, such as Visa or Mastercard. These signs are useful clues, but they do not guarantee that a particular card will work.
Before you travel, check with your bank or card issuer that your card is enabled for overseas cash withdrawals. Ask about withdrawal fees, daily limits, and whether a credit card cash advance is allowed. A cash advance may have different fees and interest from a regular card purchase.
Where to find an ATM
ATMs are found at bank branches and in some convenience stores, airports, subway stations, and other busy areas. Machines at a bank branch can be a good first choice, but check for a global-service sign before starting. Convenience-store machines can be handy, though their card support and fees may differ.
If one ATM rejects your card, try another machine marked for international cards. A rejection does not always mean your card is blocked; the machine may simply not support it. If you are arriving late or need cash soon after landing, check for an international-card ATM at the airport, but do not assume every airport machine accepts every card.
How to make a withdrawal
- Check the machine. Look for “Global ATM,” “Foreign Card,” an English-language option, or your card network’s logo. If there is no sign, you can check the on-screen menu, but cancel if the machine does not appear to support your card.
- Insert or tap your card. Follow the screen. Many ATMs ask you to insert a card; the instructions may differ by machine. Keep your card in sight and take it back as soon as it is returned.
- Choose English. Select the language option if it appears. The location and wording can vary between machines.
- Select a cash withdrawal. Choose the option for withdrawing cash. If the machine asks you to choose an account type and you are unsure which option applies to your card, cancel and check with your card issuer rather than guessing.
- Enter your PIN. Use the PIN associated with your card and follow the machine’s instructions. Do not add extra digits to a four-digit PIN unless your card issuer specifically tells you to. Cover the keypad while entering it.
- Choose an amount in Korean won. The machine dispenses won. Check the amount and any displayed fee before confirming. The machine may have a withdrawal limit, and your own card may have a separate daily limit.
- Take everything before leaving. Collect your card, cash, and receipt if you want one. Check that the transaction is complete before walking away.
Fees and currency conversion
A withdrawal may involve a fee from the ATM operator and a separate charge from your card issuer. The machine may show its fee before you confirm; read the screen carefully. Your bank or card issuer can explain its own charges, so check those terms before travelling.
If the ATM offers to convert the withdrawal into your home currency, compare the options carefully. You can usually choose to be charged in Korean won and let your card network or issuer handle the conversion. This avoids accepting a conversion rate set by the ATM, which may be less favourable. The final exchange rate and any issuer fee depend on your card provider.
If your card does not work
- Check that overseas cash withdrawals are enabled and that you have entered the correct PIN.
- Try an ATM that clearly displays international-card support or your card network’s logo.
- Try a smaller withdrawal if the machine may have an amount limit, while staying within your card’s own limits.
- Check your banking app for a declined-transaction notice or security prompt. Your issuer may be able to explain the reason.
- If the ATM keeps your card, contact your card issuer promptly using the number in its app or on its website. Do not rely on contact details posted on a machine unless you can verify them.
Simple safety tips
Use an ATM in a well-lit, busy place, and be aware of people nearby while you enter your PIN. Put your cash away before leaving the machine. Keep your card issuer’s contact details available separately from your wallet, and save your withdrawal receipt until the transaction appears correctly in your account.
For a smoother first withdrawal, bring a card you have already checked for overseas use and know its PIN. If you need only a small amount of cash, withdraw what you are comfortable carrying; you can use another supported ATM later if needed.