Send Money to Korea

USD/KRW transfer options compared.

If the recipient has a Korean bank account, Wise wins on cost and speed. If they need cash pickup at a convenience store or bank branch, Remitly and WorldRemit dominate. US bank wires are reserved for existing bank customers or large transfers requiring regulatory documentation.

Informational only.

Wise

Spread: ~0.6%

Bank-to-bank, transparent fees

Pros

  • 0.5-1% spread
  • Fast (1-2 days)
  • Multi-currency account

Cons

  • No cash pickup

Remitly

Spread: ~1-1.5%

Cash pickup in Korea

Pros

  • Promo first-transfer rates
  • GS25/CU pickup
  • Fast delivery

Cons

  • Widens after promo

WorldRemit

Spread: ~1-2%

Bank deposit or pickup

Pros

  • Wide Korean network
  • Good for recurring

Cons

  • UX less polished

US banks

Spread: ~2-3%

Existing customers, large amounts

Pros

  • Familiar
  • Handles any size

Cons

  • 2-3% spread
  • $25-50 wire fee

FAQ

What is the cheapest way to send USD to Korea?

For bank-to-bank transfers to Korean banks (Kookmin, Shinhan, Woori, Hana), Wise offers the best rates (0.5-1% spread) with 1-2 day delivery. For cash pickup, Remitly has wide Korean coverage (GS25, CU convenience stores, bank branches).

How long does a transfer to Korea take?

Wise debit-funded transfers land in 1-2 days. Remitly cash pickup is usually same-day. US bank wires take 2-5 business days. Factor in 14-hour time difference.

Can a tourist open a Korean bank account?

Difficult without a work visa or longer-term status. Tourist-visa holders rarely get accounts. Most short-term senders rely on Wise, Remitly, or in-country ATM withdrawals using foreign cards.