🇰🇷
Tips & Tipping
South Korea
Tipping summary
Tipping is generally not expected and can feel awkward. Exceptional guides or hotel staff may accept a discreet tip, but it is not standard.
Cards vs. Cash
Cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases. Cash is still useful for markets, street food, transit card top-ups, and older shops.
Currency Converter
KRW
USD
$0.00
EUR
€0.00
GBP
£0.00
Rates are estimates. Updated: 7/11/2026
Emergency Number112
CurrencySouth Korean Won (KRW)
By situation
Restaurants
₩0
Tipping can feel awkward and may be refused.
Taxis
₩0
Pay the metered fare.
Hotel staff
Optional
Luxury hotels serving international guests may be more accustomed to tips.
Tour guides
Small cash tip
Guides working with international visitors may accept tips.