South Korea
Welcome to a country filled with incredible history, a rich and vibrant culture and mesmerizing natural landscapes. South Korea is a must-see destination for any type of traveller, complete with mouthwatering food, incredible scenery and bustling metropolitan cities. Whether you are here to engulf yourself in the nightlife of Seoul or hike along the mountains of Jeju island, there’s something for everyone in South Korea.
KRW
Asia
The money
The Bank of Korea announced in early 2006 its intention to redesign the 10 won coin by the end of that year. With the increasing manufacturing price, then at 38 won per 10 won coin, and rumours that some people had been melting the coins to make jewellery, the redesign was needed to make the coin more cost effective to produce. The new coin is made of copper-coated aluminium with a reduced diameter of 18 mm, and a weight of 1.22 g. Its visual design is the same as the old coin. The new coin was issued on December 18, 2006
- Currency
- South Korean Won
- Code
- KRW
- Symbol
- ₩
- One Australian dollar
- 926.9268 KRW
Bank notes
- ₩1000
- ₩2000
- ₩5000
- ₩10000
- ₩50000
Coins
- ₩1
- ₩5
- ₩10
- ₩50
- ₩100
- ₩500
We supply notes only. Coins are listed so you know what the change in your pocket is worth.
What things cost in South Korea
The left column is what the guide records locally. The right column is that same figure through today’s rate — the arithmetic we would do for you at the counter, done here instead.
| Everyday price | Won | Australian dollars |
|---|---|---|
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range restaurant | 40,000 | A$43.15 |
| One-way ticket on local transport | 1,250 | A$1.35 |
| Bottle of water | 844 | A$0.91 |
Converted at 1 AUD = 926.9268 KRW, our online rate as at 18 Sep 2026, 09:30. Local prices are a guide to what you will pay, not a quote.
Before you go
- Learn some basic Korean phrases. Although a select few people have some competent English skills, the majority of Koreans can speak very limited English. Don’t be surprised if you end up communicating with street vendors with hand gestures as English is rarely spoken, even in popular tourist spots.
- Barter for everything when you are in local markets. Korea is famous for its night-life and shopping opportunities. You’ll find metro stations with market stalls everywhere and it is in your best interest to always try and haggle the price down if possible. Unless you are in a shopping centre with written prices, try to bargain! The worst thing the vendor could do is simply say no.
- Take advantage of rubbish bins when they are available. Rubbish bins, similar to Japan, can be very difficult to find in Korea. You may have to carry your rubbish for an exceedingly long walk before you come across another, so always dispose of any rubbish the second you find a bin to use!
- Consider planning your trip for the spring or autumn months. During the summer, Korea can get seriously hot. So unless you’re ok with packing lots of sunscreen with you, it would be better to go during a cooler time of the year. With that in mind, Korean winters can also be extremely cold and wearing a thick coat for most of the day is a requirement. So going during Spring and Autumn would get you the most ideal weather!
- Be prepared for pushing and shoving in busy metropolitan cities. With a population of over 51 million, there’s simply no room for personal space during peak hour. Don’t take it personally if you are elbowed on your way to the convenience store, for many busy Korean cities, it is the norm.
- Tip at your own expense. Tipping is not mandatory or expected by any business or worker in Korea, so don’t feel obligated to tip just because you have been given outstanding service. In saying that, any cab driver, hairdresser or restaurant staff will be more than grateful for any tips you give them, but this is not practiced much by Korean locals. If you do want to show your gratitude for exceptional service, the amount is entirely up to you.
South Korea, photographed
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Jongno — view full size
Jongno -
Jeju Island — view full size
Jeju Island -
Gyeongbokgung Palace — view full size
Gyeongbokgung Palace -
Bukchon Hanok Village — view full size
Bukchon Hanok Village -
Wolchulsan Mountain — view full size
Wolchulsan Mountain -
Lotte Tower — view full size
Lotte Tower
Order your KRW before you fly
Order online at today’s rate and collect it at the Ringwood counter, or have it delivered. The rate on this page is the rate we transact at.