Discover The Real Korea

Korea Payment Guide 2026: WOWPASS vs. T-money vs. Climate Card (Which is Best?)

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Fantastic Korean
in ,

Traveling to Korea in 2026? You might be confused by the variety of payment and transportation cards available. Is T-money still the standard? Should you get a WOWPASS? Or is the unlimited Climate Card the best deal?

Korea is rapidly becoming a cashless society. Many cafes and shops no longer accept cash. This guide compares the three major card options to help you decide which one belongs in your wallet.

Read also: Seventeen Concert 2025 Korea: Venue Directions & Where to Stay

Quick Comparison: Which Card is for You?

FeatureT-money (The Classic)WOWPASS (The Tourist King)Climate Card (The Saver)Best ForShort trips, simple transitShopping & Transit (All-in-One)Heavy transit users in SeoulFunctionTransit + Convenience StoresDebit Card + Transit + ExchangeUnlimited Transit in SeoulCostCard ~4,000 KRW (Empty)Membership 5,000 KRW1-Day to 7-Day PassesWhere to BuyAny Convenience StoreKiosks (Airports/Subways)Seoul Tourism Plaza / Tourist Centers

1. T-money (The Standard Option)

What is it? The traditional rechargeable transportation card. It has been used for decades.

  • Pros: Easy to buy at any convenience store (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven). Works on ALL buses and subways nationwide (Seoul, Busan, Jeju).
  • Cons: You must reload it with cash only at stations or convenience stores. It does not function as a debit card for big purchases.

2. WOWPASS (The All-in-One Solution)

What is it? A prepaid debit card designed specifically for foreigners. It combines a T-money chip with a debit payment function.

  • Pros:
    • Currency Exchange: You can feed foreign currency (USD, JPY, EUR, etc.) into the kiosk, and it loads KRW onto the card. No need for money exchange booths.
    • Cashless Payment: Use it like a credit card at restaurants, Olive Young, and shops.
  • Cons: The T-money balance and the Shopping balance are separate. You still need to top up the T-money part with cash at a subway station.

3. Climate Card (Gihu Donghaeng Card)

What is it? Launched recently, this is an Unlimited Transit Pass for Seoul.

  • Tourist Passes (2026 Rates):
    • 1-Day: ~5,000 KRW
    • 3-Day: ~10,000 KRW
    • 5-Day: ~15,000 KRW
  • Pros: Incredible value if you ride the subway more than 3-4 times a day. Includes Seoul city buses and public bikes (Ttareungyi).
  • Cons: Limited Scope. It generally only works within Seoul. You cannot use it to take the subway to Gyeonggi-do or Incheon (except specifically Gimpo Airport line).

Verdict: What Should I Buy?

  • The Perfect Combo: Get a WOWPASS for shopping and dining, and buy a Climate Card (Tourist Pass) if you plan to explore Seoul intensively for a few days.
  • For Short Layovers: Stick to a standard T-money.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Apple Pay work in Korea in 2026?

Yes, but not everywhere. Apple Pay works at major franchises like McDonald’s, Starbucks, GS25, and CU. However, many traditional Korean restaurants and small boutique shops still do not accept Apple Pay. You absolutely need a physical card (like WOWPASS) or cash as a backup.

Can I use the Climate Card for the AREX (Airport Railroad)?

No. The Climate Card does NOT cover the AREX line to/from Incheon International Airport. It only covers the section between Seoul Station and Gimpo Airport. You must use T-money or buy a separate ticket for Incheon Airport travel.

Where can I refund the leftover balance?

T-money: Refunds under 20,000 KRW can be done at convenience stores (500 KRW fee).
WOWPASS: You can withdraw the remaining cash in KRW at the kiosks at major airports before you leave.

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