Korean Job Discussion Forums

[molotovwars]

I should be going to Seoul to begin teaching in August and would like to have some KRW with me ahead of time.

As far as exchange rates go, will I get better rates in Korea than in the US?

My plan was to exchange $500 USD to KRW in the US before my arrival and come with another $1000 in USD. That way I'd be able to live for awhile in Korea then once I was situated exchange the dollars into won without having to do it at the airport.

What are the best places to exchange USD to Won in Seoul? Should I do it at a Korean bank. I imagine the airport would be a ripoff, but I'm actually not sure how things operate in Korea.

Any other arriving money advice would also be appreciated. I've always been good at budgeting and when I travel with cash I always keep the bulk of my money in a pouch under my belt/pants and have never had any problems with theft.

Thanks in advance and if this has been discussed recently please link me. I've browsed through the FAQ section, but so much of the information appears outdated.

[climber159]

DON'T bring Won to Korea. You'll get the worst exchange rates outside of Korea. When you arrive at Incheon airport you can exchange dollars there. I'd change that $500 at the airport, then change the rest of your money at one of the regulated money changers in Itaewon or Myeong-dong.