T-money & WOWPASS
T-money vs WOWPASS: which Korea transport card to getSubway, bus and taxi payments made simple
T-money is the basic transport card for Korea's subway and buses; WOWPASS adds currency exchange and card payments in shops on top of T-money, which makes it the most convenient single card for most first-time visitors.
Korea's subway, buses and many taxis are paid by tapping a prepaid card. T-money is the standard card: buy it at a convenience store or station machine and top it up with cash. WOWPASS is a prepaid card made for foreign visitors — you exchange foreign cash at a WOWPASS machine and pay in shops like a debit card, and it has a T-money function for transport. Seoul's Climate Card is an unlimited-ride pass for public transport in Seoul.
Book or check prices
WOWPASS
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Which option suits you
| Option | Best for | How you get it |
|---|---|---|
| T-money card | Best for · Anyone — the standard transport card | How you get it · Convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) and station machines; top up with cash |
| WOWPASS | Best for · Visitors who also want to pay in shops and exchange money | How you get it · WOWPASS machines at airports, hotels and Myeongdong; pick-up vouchers on Klook / KKday |
| Climate Card (Seoul) | Best for · Heavy subway and bus use within Seoul for a few days | How you get it · Short-term passes sold at Seoul subway stations |
| Korea Tour Card and themed cards | Best for · Travellers who want discount coupons with their transport card | How you get it · Convenience stores and online |
Price
A T-money card itself costs a few thousand won and you add your own fare balance; subway rides in Seoul start at around ₩1,500. WOWPASS cards are often free or discounted through Klook / KKday pick-up vouchers. Fares change, so check the current tariff.
Checked 2026-11-02
Step by step
- 1Decide: transport only → T-money; transport plus shopping and exchange → WOWPASS.
- 2Buy a WOWPASS pick-up voucher online, or get a T-money card at an airport convenience store.
- 3Top up the transport balance with cash (₩10,000–20,000 covers a few days of subway rides).
- 4Tap the card when you get on and off buses and at subway gates — tapping off gives you transfer discounts.
- 5Before you leave Korea, refund leftover balance (T-money at convenience stores for a small fee; WOWPASS at its machines).
Good to know
- T-money balance is topped up with cash only at most machines and stores — keep some won notes.
- Transfers between bus and subway within about 30 minutes are discounted when you tap off.
- Most Seoul taxis accept T-money, so the same card covers a late-night ride.
T-money & WOWPASS: FAQ
What is the difference between T-money and WOWPASS?+
T-money only pays for transport and some small purchases. WOWPASS is a prepaid card for foreigners: you load it by exchanging cash at WOWPASS machines and pay in shops and restaurants like a debit card, and it also has a T-money transport function with its own balance.
Where can I buy a T-money card?+
At convenience stores such as GS25, CU and 7-Eleven, including at Incheon Airport, and at subway station machines.
Can I top up T-money with a credit card?+
Usually not — most stores and station machines take cash only. WOWPASS can be loaded at its machines with foreign cash.
Is it worth exchanging money in Korea?+
Exchange offices in Myeongdong and WOWPASS machines usually give better rates than airports. Many shops take cards, but street food, markets and T-money top-ups need cash.
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