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How to order South Korean Won

  • Order your South Korean Won online via our click & collect currency service. Choose your collection date and pick up from your local M&S store's bureau de change.

    Click & collect South Korean Won in just 60 seconds^.

    ^Subject to availability

  • Buy South Korean Won in person from a participating M&S store. With locations nationwide - many open seven days a week and late into the evening - you can buy your Travel Money at your convenience.

Autumn Maple in Naejangsan national park, South korea

Why buy South Korean Won from M&S Travel Money?

Off to South Korea? Get travel-ready with M&S Travel Money, where you’ll find:

  • Stores open 7 days a week.*
  • A choice of collection and buying options.
  • A buy back service for you to exchange leftover currency.

*Store opening hours vary.

 

Woman in sunglasses stood in front of a plant in the sun

What you need to know about the South Korean Won currency

The South Korean Won is the official currency of South Korea. Its currency code is KRW and its symbol is ₩. Each Won is divided into 100 Jeon, although Jeons are no longer used in everyday transactions and only appear in foreign exchange rates.

Coins include:

₩1 (Won), ₩5, ₩10, ₩50, ₩100, ₩500 

Banknotes include:

₩1,000, ₩5,000, ₩10,000, ₩50,000 

You can buy South Korean Won online using M&S Travel Money's click & collect service.

Please note not all denominations are available to exchange. 

How to sell South Korean Won back to M&S Travel Money

Do you have spare South Korean Won? We can buy back foreign currency from you.

Learn more
M&S Travel Money Wallet

Guide to South Korea

From the futuristic brilliance of Seoul to the tranquil beauty of ancient temples in Gyeongju, Korea is an incredible destination for the adventure of a lifetime.

Tuck into sizzling Korean BBQ, stroll through the cherry blossom canopies, or take in the misty mountain landscapes - there’s plenty to do in Korea, a place where culture, nature, and history blend to create lasting impressions.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my bank card in South Korea?

Although bank cards are accepted throughout South Korea, businesses in remote areas are usually cash-only. Using cash KRW instead of credit cards also helps you avoid the fees, charges, and unfavourable exchange rates associated with making card payments abroad.

Should I buy South Korean Won before I travel?

Yes, you should buy your Travel Money before arriving in South Korea. This way, you get a more competitive exchange rate and your South Korean Won goes further.

How expensive is South Korea?

South Korea is generally a low-cost destination, but the amount of South Korean Won you’ll need will depend on your travel plans.

Typical prices include:

  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: ₩12,000 (£6.64)
  • Domestic beer: ₩5,000 (£2.77)
  • Cup of coffee: ₩5,138.30 (£2.84)
  • Bottle of water: ₩1,095.66 (£0.61)

Check out the current GBP to KRW exchange rate using our currency converter.

Can you use other currencies in South Korea?

As South Korea’s official currency is the South Korean Won, no other foreign currency is accepted

Do you need a visa to visit South Korea?

British passport holders must apply for a K-ETA before travelling to South Korea. For more information regarding South Korea’s entry requirements, check out GOV.UK.

Should I tip in South Korea?

Although there isn’t a huge tipping culture in South Korea, a 5-10% tip is considered generous.

What languages are spoken in South Korea?

The national and official language of South Korea is Korean.

What is the latest government travel advice for South Korea?

South Korea is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s recommended to check the latest government advice before travelling by visiting GOV.UK.

What is the best time of year to visit South Korea?

Generally, spring is the best time to visit South Korea. This is when the country’s famous cherry blossoms bloom.

Other popular currencies

If you’re planning a future holiday or a trip that takes in multiple destinations, these other currencies may be useful: