
Book WOWPASS, South Korea’s all-in-one travel card for transit and currency exchange. Find WOWPASS locations, how to buy, and compare to T-money/NAMANE.
What is WOWPASS & How does it Work?

WOWPASS is a multifunctional payment card launched in South Korea to simplify transit and daily purchases for international visitors. Its core advantage is integrating T-money transit card functionality, foreign currency payments, and real-time balance management—all in one card.
Paired with its mobile app, you can skip carrying multiple cards or cash, and it's ideal for exploring cities like Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and Jeju Island.
WOWPASS vs. T-money Card vs. NAMANE Card
Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Core Functions | Transit, daily payments, currency exchange (USD supported) | Transit only | Transit + daily payments |
App Features | USD top-ups, real-time exchange, balance tracking | Basic balance check only | KRW-only top-ups, purchase history |
Tax Refunds | Supported (refund to card) | Not supported | Not supported |
Purchase Locations | Airports, Trip.com, select subway stations | Convenience stores, subway stations | Subway stations, convenience stores |


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Who Can Use WOWPASS?
WOWPASS is designed for all international travelers visiting South Korea, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer. It works across Korea’s major travel regions, eliminating the stress of converting Korean Won (KRW) or navigating unfamiliar transit ticketing systems. Cover almost all daily expenses—from subway rides to café stops—with one card.
How to Buy and Activate WOWPASS

Purchase Your WOWPASS Voucher (Pre-Trip)
- Buy a WOWPASS on Trip.com (or other authorized platforms) before your departure. You’ll receive a 6-digit verification code via email/SMS after checkout.
- This voucher lets you skip on-site lines for physical card issuance.
Redeem & Activate Your Card (In Korea)
Once you arrive, head to a WOWPASS kiosk (airports, subway stations, etc.) and follow these steps:
- Select your preferred language (e.g., English) on the kiosk screen.
- Tap “Issue New Card” and choose your initial top-up currency (USD, KRW, etc.).
- Scan your passport for identity verification.
- Select “I Have a Reservation Code” and enter your 6-digit Trip.com code.
- Load your initial funds (insert cash or use the app to transfer USD).
- Remove the physical card from the machine, then reinsert it to activate.
- Download the WOWPASS App, register your card, and you’re ready to use it.
How to Exchange Currency with WOWPASS

WOWPASS lets you exchange currencies digitally via the app, which is faster and often has better rates than airport counters:
- Open the WOWPASS App and log in to your account.
- Go to the “Currency Exchange” section.
- Select the currencies you want to swap (e.g., USD → KRW).
- Enter the amount and confirm the real-time exchange rate.
- Complete the transaction—funds will be instantly transferred to your target wallet.
How to Use WOWPASS

1. As a Transit Card (T-money)
- How it works: Simply tap your WOWPASS on the contactless reader at subway turnstiles, bus doors, or taxi payment terminals.
- Pro tip: The fare is automatically deducted from your T-money balance, so you don’t need to select a ticket type or worry about exact change.
2. As a Debit Card for Daily Payments
- How it works: Insert your WOWPASS into the card reader at shops, restaurants, and convenience stores (or tap for contactless payments where available).
- Coverage: Accepted at most places that take card payments in South Korea, including major retail chains, cafes, and even street food stalls with card readers.
3. App-Based Balance & Payment Management
- Use the WOWPASS App to track your spending, exchange currencies (e.g., USD ↔ KRW), and set up auto-deduction from your foreign currency wallet if your KRW balance runs low.
- You can also view transaction history and receive real-time notifications for all payments.
Where is WOWPASS Location?

WOWPASS kiosks are widely available at airports, subway stations, and tourist hubs. Below are the most popular locations for travelers:
- Incheon Airport Terminal 1/2 (AREX): 6:00 AM–10:50 PM (Only for AREX Express Train ticket holders; no balance refunds).
- Jeju International Airport (International Terminal): Arrivals Hall Exit 5, 6:00 AM–11:59 PM.
- Hongik University Station: Next to subway ticket machines (Exit 2 direction), 6:00 AM–11:59 PM.
- Seoul Station (Lotte Mart): 2nd floor (under “Exchange” sign), 110m from Exit 1, 6:00 AM–11:59 PM.
- Gwanghwamun Station: Beside turnstiles (Exit 3 direction), 6:00 AM–11:59 PM.
- Busan Lotte Department Store (Main Branch): 1st floor (near tax refund counter, rear entrance), 132m from Seomyeon Station Exit 7, 10:30 AM–8:30 PM.
For additional kiosk locations, check the official WOWPASS website or app map.
What are Key Features of WOWPASS

1. T-money Transit Card Integration
As South Korea’s primary transit payment method, T-money is accepted on subways, buses, and taxis nationwide. WOWPASS builds in T-money functionality, so you don’t need a separate transit card. Simply tap your WOWPASS to ride—no more fumbling with ticket machines or cash.
2. Multi-Currency Payments (USD Supported)
Load funds in U.S. Dollars (USD), Japanese Yen (JPY), KRW, and other major currencies. A standout feature is auto-cross-currency deduction: if your KRW balance runs low, the card automatically uses funds from your USD (or other foreign currency) wallet, converting at the real-time rate at checkout. Skip frequent top-ups and currency exchange counters.
3. App-Managed Currency Exchange
Exchange currencies instantly via the WOWPASS App (e.g., USD to KRW) with real-time rates—usually more favorable than airport or bank counters, with lower fees. No more waiting in lines at physical exchange desks: top-ups, currency swaps, and balance tracking are all digital, saving time on your trip.
4. ATM Cash Withdrawals
Use WOWPASS as a cash card at Korean ATMs to withdraw KRW. The amount is deducted from your foreign currency (e.g., USD) wallet at the current exchange rate, so you avoid carrying large sums of cash—boosting safety and convenience.
How to Reload WOWPASS

Online Reload (App)
After registering your card in the WOWPASS App, load funds in USD or other currencies digitally. Note: T-money transit balance top-ups via the app are only available for iOS; Android users must reload T-money at subway kiosks.
In-Person Reload
Reload T-money (for transit) at subway ticket machines or WOWPASS kiosks: Select your language, choose “Reload Transit Card,” enter the amount, and insert cash (KRW) to complete.
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FAQs about WOWPASS
How does WOWPASS work?
WOWPASS is an all-in-one card that combines T-money transit payments, daily purchases, and multi-currency (including USD) transactions. Load funds via the app or kiosks, use it for taps/ATM withdrawals, and manage balances digitally.Is WOWPASS Worth It for Travelers?
Absolutely. For international travelers, WOWPASS eliminates the chaos of managing multiple cards, cash, and currency exchange. Its USD compatibility, T-money integration, and app-based management save time and reduce fees—making it a cost-effective, stress-free tool for exploring South Korea independently.Can I use WOWPASS outside Korea?
No. WOWPASS is only valid for use within South Korea for transit, in-store payments, and local ATM withdrawals.Can I use WOWPASS for subway?
Yes. WOWPASS integrates T-money, so it’s accepted on all Korean subways, buses, and taxis—no separate transit card needed.Can I get a tax refund on WOWPASS?
Yes. Tax refunds can be credited directly to your WOWPASS card for convenience.











