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Have you ever needed to transfer money from Korea to your family or friends back home? It can feel a bit tricky, right? Whether you’re a student, an expat working here, or just want to support your loved ones, sending money overseas is something many of us need to do. 😊
Good news! Things have changed a lot. In 2025, it’s not just about visiting a bank anymore. There are so many easy ways to send money from Korea, like using cool apps! Let’s explore all the best options together, so you can pick the one that’s perfect for you.
1. Why People Send Money from Korea
A young person thinking about sending money overseas.
Many people in Korea need to send money from Korea for different reasons. For example, students studying abroad might need funds, or people working in Korea often send money back to their families. There are also many Korean diaspora members who support their relatives.
A few years ago, sending money overseas meant going to a bank branch, which could take a lot of time. But now, thanks to new fintech apps and online services, it’s much faster and simpler! By 2025, you have many choices, which means you can find the best option for fees, speed, and how easy it is to use. You can learn more about finding the right way to manage your funds in Korea by visiting Aclipse’s guide on sending money home.
2. Traditional Bank Transfers in Korea
A person at a bank counter making an international money transfer.
If you prefer using traditional banks like Shinhan, Kookmin, or Woori, you can still transfer money from Korea through them. You’ll need to visit a bank branch to open an overseas remittance account first. Don’t worry, it’s a straightforward process!
What You’ll Need 📝
- Your passport
- Your Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- Your address in Korea
- Recipient’s details (name, address, bank name, account number, SWIFT/BIC code)
Bank transfer fees usually range from 8,000 to 30,000 KRW (about 6 to 22 USD), depending on the amount you’re sending and which bank you use. It typically takes 1 to 3 business days for the money to arrive. Some banks also let you use their ATMs or internet banking for transfers after your initial setup. You can find more comprehensive details on how to transfer money to/from Korea in this useful guide.
3. Sending Money with Fintech Apps
A person using a fintech app on their smartphone for a money transfer.
Fintech apps are super popular now for sending money overseas! Companies like Wise, SentBe, and WireBarley are leading the way in 2025. They make it really easy and often cheaper than traditional banks.
- Wise: Offers real-time exchange rates and typically low fees (under 1%). Transfers usually take 1 to 2 days, and they even support multi-currency accounts!
- SentBe: You can send up to 5,000 USD per transfer and 50,000 USD per year. Fees are usually around 2,500 to 5,000 KRW (about 2-4 USD), and money arrives in 1 to 2 days.
- WireBarley: Known for its very low fees and easy-to-use app. Just be aware that transfers might be slower on weekends.
To use these services, you’ll need to install their app, verify your identity (with your passport or ARC), and link your bank account. It’s a quick setup for a much smoother Korea international transfer experience. For a step-by-step guide, check out this Wise Money Transfer Tutorial on YouTube.
4. Global Transfer Services
Beyond banks and fintech apps, you can also use well-known global services like Western Union and MoneyGram to transfer money from Korea. These services are great if you need to send money to a wide range of countries or if your recipient doesn’t have a bank account.
Global Service Options 🗺️
- Western Union: Supports over 200 countries and offers real-time exchange rates. Fees can vary depending on the amount you send.
- MoneyGram: You can even set up automatic recurring transfers, which is super convenient for regular payments. Their fees might be a bit higher compared to banks or apps.
Both services allow you to send money by visiting a local agent or by using their mobile apps. They are a reliable way to make an Korea overseas remittance if you need a widely accessible option. For detailed steps, check the Wise Help Centre guide to KRW transfers, which also covers general international transfer principles.
5. Essential Info & Documents You’ll Need
A person organizing documents and information for an international money transfer.
No matter which method you choose to transfer money from Korea, you’ll always need some key information and documents. Getting these ready beforehand will make your transfer much quicker and smoother!
Key Information Required 📌
- For the Sender (You): Your full name, Korean address, contact number, and a valid ID (like your passport or Alien Registration Card).
- For the Recipient (The person receiving money): Their full name, local address, contact number, bank name, bank address, account number, and the SWIFT/BIC code of their bank.
Sometimes, for certain countries or larger amounts, you might be asked for additional documents like proof of income or a statement explaining why you’re sending the money. It’s always a good idea to double-check with your chosen service beforehand. You can read more about what’s required for transferring large sums of money internationally to be fully prepared.
6. Comparing Fees, Exchange Rates, and Limits
When you send money from Korea, it’s super important to compare the fees, exchange rates, and limits of different services. This way, you can save money and ensure your transfer goes smoothly. Here’s a quick comparison based on June 2025 data:
| Service Type | Fees (approx.) | Exchange Rate | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Banks | 8,000-30,000 KRW (6-22 USD) | Possible rate discounts | 1-3 business days |
| Fintech Apps | 1,000-5,000 KRW (0.5-1% of amount) | Real-time rates | 1-2 days |
| Global Services | Variable, generally higher | Real-time rates | 1-2 days |
Most services, especially apps and banks, have a sending limit of around 5,000 USD per transaction and 50,000 USD per year. Always check the official website of your chosen service for the most up-to-date information, as policies can change! For more on different ways to send money home from Korea, take a look at this helpful article.
7. Important Tips and Regulations for Transfers
Before you finalize your money transfer from Korea, there are a few important things to keep in mind. These tips will help you avoid any problems and ensure your money reaches its destination safely!
- Double-check Recipient Info: It’s super hard to cancel or get a refund if you make a mistake in the recipient’s details. So, check everything twice!
- Large Transfers: As of 2025, the Korean government is very strict about preventing money laundering. If you’re sending a large amount, you might need to show proof of where the money came from and why you’re sending it.
- Taxes in Other Countries: Some countries, like the USA, require you to report overseas income and pay taxes. Make sure you keep good records of all your transfers.
Staying informed about these regulations will help you make smooth and worry-free international money transfers. Always prioritize accuracy when entering information!
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Key Takeaways from Our Guide 📝
To help you remember the most important points about how to transfer money from Korea, here’s a quick summary:
- Many Options: You can choose from traditional banks, modern fintech apps like Wise or SentBe, or global services such as Western Union.
- Check Fees and Rates: Fintech apps generally offer lower fees and better exchange rates compared to traditional banks.
- Required Information: Always have your ID and the recipient’s full banking details ready.
- Stay Safe: Double-check all information before sending and be aware of regulations for large transfers.
Quick Guide to Money Transfers from Korea
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
I hope this guide helps you feel more confident about how to transfer money from Korea safely and easily in 2025! There are so many great options out there, so take your time to choose the best one for your needs. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask in the comments below! 😊