Apple Pay in Korea: The 2026 Guide to Cashless Travel
Quick Answer: Korea is very card-friendly, and you can travel mostly without cash. However, iPhone and Apple Pay alone are not enough for every situation. Bring a physical card, a transit card, a small amount of cash, and a portable charger as backup. Apple Pay in Korea: The 2026 Guide to Cashless Travel for iPhone Users If you are planning a trip to South Korea, you are probably researching the best ways to pay for things. You might be wondering: “Do I need cash in Korea?” “Does Apple Pay work in Seoul?” “How do I pay for the subway with my iPhone?” South Korea is famously one of the most tech-savvy, cashless societies in the world. You can pay with a credit card almost everywhere—from high-end shopping malls to tiny convenience stores and taxis. However, for foreign travelers wanting to travel cashless, things can hit a slight snag. Some local apps require a Korean phone number, and navigating public transit payments in Korea can be surprisingly tricky for iPhone users. ...