Korean Job Discussion Forums

ParanoidAndroid · Joined: 09 Oct 2008 Location: Minnesota

Im heading to South Korea in a few days from the US.

Should I come with half of my money in cash and half in travelers checks?
I am planning to bring about 800 dollars. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!!

PRagic · Joined: 24 Feb 2006

The girls on the hill take cash, tchecks, and credit cards. You'll have no problems.

afsjesse · Joined: 23 Sep 2007 Location: Kickin' it in 'Kato town.

International ATM cards have the best exchange, but they can be hard to find depending on where you are. If your in a big city *seoul, busan daegu, gwangju, daejeon etc... you'll have no problem. If you in the bush like I am, bring Cash. Tchecks are a hastle to exchange I think and they percentages that they keep can be rough.

Overall I'd bring about 400 in cash, exchange some at the airport, not alot though. Just enough to get by for a bit. Than once you got your bank account setup exchange it at the bank.

AussieGav · Joined: 02 Sep 2007 Location: Uijeongbu

I would say cash, then at least there is no need to worry about finding banks etc. Bring it in Won if it's possible then it's plain sailing until payday. But, I dont think think there is any definitive answer to this as it depends on your plans and lifestyle. Good luck.

Jane · Joined: 01 Feb 2003

I would bring over 200 or 300 in USD cash and then change it at the currency exchange at Incheon Airport when you arrive. There's one located in the baggage pickup area. Then, if you are settling in a bigger city, make sure your bank card is hooked up for international ATM transactions, and take money out as you need.
I would not get won before you leave the States, as you will be paying a premium to obtain an exotic currency. Just bring your greenbacks to Korea and do it here.
Finally, don't bother with TC, unless you feel compelled to do so. There's no need for them, in my opinion.

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

$800 is NOT a large sum of money.

It is only 8 pieces of paper. Put 2 in each pocket if you are the paranoid type.

Bring cash (no worry about trying to cash it) and exchange some or all of it at the airport in Incheon.

The currency exchange counters in Incheon ARE the banks and you get the same rates that you would get for cash at the same bank in the city.

Do NOT buy won at home. The rates are TERRIBLE. Bring dollars and exchange it here at your convenience.