How do I get and top up a T-money card?
Buy a T-money card at convenience stores like GS25, CU or 7-Eleven, or at Seoul subway information centers. Top it up at the store counter or a subway ticket machine. Bring Korean won, since cash is the most reliable way to top up.
Updated 2026-10-15Where to buy one
VISITKOREA says T-money cards are sold at convenience stores nationwide, such as GS25, CU and 7-Eleven, and at Seoul subway information centers on Lines 1 to 8. It lists the card itself at 3,000 to 5,000 won, depending on the design (as listed in 2026). You do not need ID or sign-up. The card price is separate from the balance, so a new card starts empty until you top it up.
How to top up
At a convenience store, hand the card to the cashier, say how much you want to add, and pay. At subway stations, use the card charging machine near the gates: place the card on the reader, choose the amount and insert cash. VISITKOREA lists a maximum balance of 500,000 won. Machines usually offer English, so look for the language button first.
Bring cash for top-ups
Tmoney's own traveler guide says cash is the most reliable way to top up a physical card at convenience stores and many subway stations, and warns not to assume a foreign credit card will work. Some subway machines are cash only. Keep a few 10,000 won notes for this. Seoul's new subway ticket machines that take Visa and Mastercard are for Climate Card passes and single-journey tickets, not standard T-money top-ups.
Using it and getting a refund
Tap the card on the reader when you enter and leave the subway, and when you get on and off buses so transfers are counted. Many convenience stores also accept T-money for purchases. Before you fly home, VISITKOREA says smaller balances can be refunded at convenience stores, while balances over 50,000 won are refunded only at Tmoney Town near Seoul Station. The card price itself is not refunded and a small fee may apply.
People also ask
Can I top up T-money with a foreign credit card?
Don't count on it for a standard card. Tmoney recommends cash. Mobile Tmoney supports some overseas cards, such as Mastercard, according to VISITKOREA, so check the app before you go.
Does T-money work outside Seoul?
Generally yes, on subways and buses in many cities. Coverage can vary by region, so check before you go if you are heading somewhere rural.
Is there an unlimited pass for visitors?
Seoul's Climate Card has 1- to 7-day passes for Seoul subways and buses, and Tmoney's Mpass is a foreigner-only pass. Check current prices and coverage on the official sites.