Best ways to exchange money in Korea 2026 (get the best rates)

Currency exchange options ranked by value: 1. Myeongdong money changers — BEST cash rate. Look for the small exchange booths, not banks. 2. Wowpass kiosk machines — Excellent rate (~0.5% from market rate), available 24/7 at airports and city locations. 3. Bank exchange — Decent rate (1-2% markup). Need passport. 4. Airport exchange counter — Convenient on arrival. Change ₩50,000 for immediate needs, then use Wowpass or Myeongdong for better rates. 5. Your bank's international ATM — Check if your home bank has fee-free foreign ATM. GS25, 7-Eleven, and KEB Hana Bank ATMs work with international cards. 2026 update: Wowpass machines are now everywhere — Incheon Airport, Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, major subway stations. The exchange rate alone makes it worth getting. My recommendation: Get Wowpass at the airport (free card, no waiting). For large cash needs, Myeongdong money changers still have the absolute best rates.