Fact Check: Can You Exchange Foreign Coins in South Korea?
Creatrip Team
7 months ago
Many travelers assume foreign coins can’t be exchanged in South Korea, but several major banks (Shinhan, Woori, Hana, NH Nonghyup, Jeju) now accept foreign coins at branches or designated locations. Acceptance and currencies vary by bank. Banks typically credit only about 50% of the bill exchange rate for coins because coins must be exported (high shipping and verification costs). Unmanned kiosks (exchange kiosks) run by startups like CoinTrabit operate nationwide and may pay about 55% of the bill rate; they also buy coins when people want foreign coins for travel. Peer-to-peer sales on secondhand platforms (e.g., Danggeun Market, JunggoNara) are possible for small amounts but platforms limit large listings to prevent fraud. Leftover coins can also be donated via campaigns at convenience stores (CU) and airports. Note: Danggeun Market (당근마켓) and JunggoNara (중고나라) are popular Korean secondhand marketplaces.
