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How to buy South Korean Won

  • Buy South Korean Won Online

    Buy South Korean Won online with Click & Collect at over 580 M&S stores. Use our Pounds to South Korean Won (GBP to KRW) currency calculator to work out how many South Korean Won you want. Pick your collection date and collect from your chosen M&S store.

    Click & Collect South Korean Won (KRW) in as little as 60 seconds.*

    *Subject to availability

  • Buy South Korean Won In-store

    Buy South Korean Won in your local participating M&S store.* With over 90 Travel Money Bureaux nationwide - many open seven days a week. - you can buy South Korean Won at a time that suits you.

    *In-store rates may differ from online rates.

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:

  • Our South Korean Won rate has no hidden fees & zero commission
  • Click & Collect South Korean Won the same day*
  • Stores open 7 days a week**
  • Get more with Sparks Preferential Rates

**store opening hours vary

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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. 

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: