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Exchanging Older USD Notes in South Korea: real experience from chats

Short answer
Older U.S. dollar bills are accepted throughout South Korea, though you may receive a slightly less favorable exchange rate compared to newer notes. For the best rates, utilize dedicated exchange offices in city centers like Myeongdong or services like Wowpass rather than airport kiosks.

From real experience

It is permissible to use older U.S. dollar bills in South Korea for currency exchange.
However, expect a slightly less favorable exchange rate compared to newer bills, with potential differences around 1-2% or approximately 100 KRW per 100 USD. For practical purposes, especially when immediate local currency is needed, this minor difference in exchange rate is often negligible.
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Withdrawing cash from ATMs in South Korea is generally possible using UnionPay cards at major Korean bank ATMs (Shinhan, NH, Woori, Hana).
Russian bank cards like RosSelkhozbank might work, but it's advisable to confirm conditions beforehand. For currency exchange, particularly for older US dollar bills, it's recommended to use exchange offices in city centers like Myeongdong, as rates are typically better than at the airport. Exchange offices may offer slightly less favorable rates for older USD bills compared to newer ones, but it remains a viable option.
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When traveling to South Korea, it's advisable to have cash on hand (around $100 per day), even if you have foreign bank cards.
Old US dollar bills might be accepted, especially if exchanged through services like Wowpass which offers a decent exchange rate. For withdrawing Korean Won, consider using banks like Woori or KB-bank. Cards like RSB UnionPay with a Yuan account may also be usable for withdrawals. Money can be exchanged at various locations, including dedicated exchange offices in areas like Myeongdong.
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Using Wowpass in South Korea: It's convenient for exchanging USD to KRW, accepting old dollar bills.
Funds can be loaded at terminals, with automatic conversion to KRW. T-money cards can have a child fare applied using a passport at top-up stations. If you have a foreign Visa card (from a non-Russian bank), it's widely accepted and might negate the need for a Wowpass.
✓ 1 report from chats
Payment machines like Woopass in South Korea generally do not accept large euro banknotes such as 500 EUR.
While some exchange offices in the city may accept them, it's advisable to use smaller denominations or confirm acceptance beforehand to avoid issues. Moneybox and other exchange services might have varying policies regarding large foreign currency notes.
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At Incheon Airport, if you need to exchange US dollars for smaller denominations, you can exchange a portion of your dollars for Korean Won, and you will receive change in smaller bills.
While some currency exchange booths may accept older series US dollars, the exchange rate might be slightly less favorable. It's always a good idea to verify the acceptance of older currency and rates beforehand.
✓ 1 report from chats
Older series US dollar bills are generally accepted in South Korea, including at payment machines like Woopass and at currency exchange offices.
While some locations might offer a slightly less favorable exchange rate for older bills, they are typically still valid for transactions. If concerned, you can request newer bills for a small fee at some exchange points.
✓ 1 report from chats
Old US dollar bills can be exchanged in Seoul, particularly in the Myeongdong district, where exchange rates are typically more favorable than at the airport.
✓ 1 report from chats

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