Korean Currency
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| Fifty thousand won | Ten thousand won | Five thousand won | One thousand won |
1) Traveler's Checks
Traveler's checks can be exchanged for cash at banks or exchange booths. A number of stores still accept the checks instead cash. Nonetheless, the forms of credit cards and debit cards have become a more preferred means of payment by travelers. Thus trading checks is hardly observed nowadays as there is seemingly a decreasing number of stores that offer this service.
2) Credit Card
Most of the businesses in Korea widely use and accept payment by credit cards, including at major hotels, department stores, large restaurants and stores. Visa, MasterCard, American Express and other credit cards can be used; however check the service availability before making purchases as some stores may not be subject to this service.
3) Exchanging Money
When you need to exchange your foreign currency into Korean won, visit a bank, exchange service center, or an authorized exchange. (Bank business hours: 09:00-16:00 (Note: Standard Chartered Bank hours 09:30-16:30, EVERRICH Bank hours 09:00-16:30), closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.)
Business Hour
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Banks Weekdays: 09:00 – 16:00 ※ Exception: Standard Chartered Bank 09:30-16:30 / EVERRICH Bank 09:00-16:30 Weekends and Public Holidays: Closed |
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Government Offices and Organizations Weekdays: 09:00 – 18:00 Weekends and Public Holidays: Closed |
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Post Offices Weekdays: 09:00 – 18:00 Public Holidays: Closed |
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Department Stores Weekdays: 10:30 – 20:00 (Fri-Sun: Extended to 20:30) ※ Typically, department stores are closed one day a month (usually Mondays). However, closings vary according to each store. |
Electricity and Voltage
The standard voltage in Korea is 220 volts (and 60 Hertz, or cycles), and the outlet has two round holes. If you do not have a multi-voltage travel adapter, you can borrow one from your hotel's front desk for free of charge (however, some establishment may request a minimal fee as deposit, covering for possible loss). If you would like to purchase one in Korea, you can find them at the airport, any of the retail stores, major duty-free shops, convenience stores or even stationery stores.
Mobile Phone Rentals and Roaming Service
As soon as visitors arrive at Korea's major airports, including Incheon, Gimpo, Gimhae and Jeju international airports, you can proceed to 'roaming center' desks and get your mobile devices connected immediately with local network service provider after a simple registration. In addition to roaming services, SIM Card purchase, Wi-Fi egg rentals and even smart phone or other mobile gears are available.
SIM Card Purchase (Korea SIM card)
Travelers can purchase SIM cards from the major retail stores, convenience stores or from the website of the respective service providers. More often than not, this service is cheaper than roaming phones, therefore preferred communication service by a large number of business travelers.
Medical Facilities for Travelers
Many large and general hospitals in Korea are offering top notch medical services catering to both Koreans and international visitors with added enhancement facility, such as the International Healthcare Center. The staffs at the center are not only experts in medical knowledge but also fluent in foreign languages, enabling simultaneous interpretations, especially helpful to customers from all over the world.