Exchange currency AUD to South Korean Won (KRW)
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Plan your South Korea trip efficiently!
Getting ready for your South Korean adventure? Whether you’re drawn by K-pop concerts in Seoul, temple stays in the mountains, or the coastal charm of Busan, organising your travel money in advance helps you start your trip worry-free.
The local currency, the South Korean Won (KRW), is essential for day-to-day spending — from paying for street food and taxis to shopping at local markets. While cards are widely accepted in big cities, cash remains important in smaller towns and traditional areas.
With Prosegur Change, you can order your KRW online safely and lock in a great rate before you fly. As one of the most trusted names in currency exchange, we make it easy to collect your travel money in Australia — so you can arrive in Korea ready to explore, not to search for a money changer.
Practical tips for budgeting your trip
Prices in South Korea can vary depending on whether you’re in Seoul, a coastal city, or rural areas. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- Meals: Street food costs around ₩3,000–₩7,000 per dish (try tteokbokki or kimbap!), while a restaurant meal averages ₩10,000–₩25,000.
- Transport: A single metro ride costs around ₩1,400–₩1,800, and taxis start at ₩4,800.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses start from ₩40,000 per night, while mid-range hotels range from ₩100,000 to ₩250,000.
- Attractions: Entrance fees vary from ₩2,000 for temples or palaces to ₩15,000–₩50,000 for amusement parks or observation towers.
Tip: Cash is still the preferred payment method in traditional markets and small shops. Keep smaller denominations handy, as some stalls might not provide change for large bills.
Some suggestions for your stay
South Korea offers a mix of tradition, technology, and natural beauty. Here are some must-see destinations:
- Seoul: Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, Myeongdong shopping, and Gwangjang Market.
- Busan: Haeundae Beach, Jagalchi Fish Market, and the Gamcheon Culture Village.
- Jeju Island: Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and the scenic Hallasan National Park.
- Gyeongju: Known as “the museum without walls,” filled with ancient temples and royal tombs.
- Incheon: Visit Chinatown, Songdo Central Park, and the modern Incheon Bridge.
Whether you’re exploring K-pop culture or centuries-old palaces, having South Korean Won on hand will make your travels easier.
Some facts about the South Korean Won
The South Korean Won (KRW) has been the official currency since 1945. It symbolises the nation’s technological progress and dynamic economy.
Modern banknotes feature historical figures such as King Sejong the Great and cultural motifs like the hangeul alphabet.
Denominations of the South Korean Won
ATMs are widely accessible, though small service charges may apply for international cards. Counterfeiting is rare thanks to advanced holographic security features. Since the KRW is not commonly traded outside Asia, it’s best to exchange your leftover cash before leaving Korea.
- Banknotes: ₩1,000, ₩5,000, ₩10,000, ₩50,000
- Coins: ₩10, ₩50, ₩100, ₩500
Fun fact: ₩50,000 notes feature Shin Saimdang — a poet and painter, and the first woman to appear on South Korean currency.
FAQs about South Korean Won (KRW)
Here are some common questions travellers ask before exchanging AUD to KRW for their trip to South Korea:
₩50,000 (around AUD 55) can go a long way — it can cover a decent restaurant meal for two, a full day of metro rides, and a few coffees or street snacks. In smaller cities, it might even cover a night at a budget guesthouse.
A meal at a local diner or market costs between ₩7,000–₩12,000. Western or fusion restaurants are pricier, from ₩20,000–₩40,000 per person. Street food like gimbap or hotteok is just ₩3,000–₩5,000.
In Korean culture, the “3-day rule” refers to the polite custom of not appearing too eager — whether after a date or a business meeting. While not directly financial, it’s a good cultural insight for travellers looking to understand local etiquette!
It’s often more convenient to exchange your AUD to KRW in Australia before departure. You’ll get better rates online, avoid airport surcharges, and ensure you have cash upon arrival — especially useful for taxis and airport buses.
Travelling soon?
Here's how to easily reserve your currencies online
1. Choose your currency
Determine the amount of travel money you will need to enjoy your trip.
2. Choose a date & a pick-up location
Collect your order from one of our exchange bureaus at major airports and city centre.
3. Collect & pay
Pay upon pickup and enjoy
your trip.
Enjoy the best exchange rate for AUD to KRW with Prosegur Change
Looking to buy Korean Won for your trip? Get the best AUD to KRW exchange rate online with 0% commission from Prosegur Change.
Reserve your travel money online and collect it at one of our branches across Australia — in Melbourne, Gold Coast, Brisbane, ACT, and Adelaide, including major airports.
Reliable, secure, and fast — we make foreign currency exchange easy.