Is North Korea cashless?
Cash essential#197 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #32 of 32 in Asia
Short answer: Bring or withdraw enough cash for your trip. Cards will rarely help.
Visitors can only enter on organised tours and pay in euros, Chinese yuan or US dollars in cash. Foreign cards do not work.
Will my card work?
Rarely or not at all. Do not count on using a foreign card in North Korea.
Do I need cash?
Yes, plenty. Most payments in North Korea are made in cash, so plan how you will get it.
Local currency: North Korean won (KPW)
How does tipping work?
Tipping guides in foreign currency is customary on organised tours.
Mobile payments
No widely used mobile wallets for visitors. Stick to cards where accepted, and cash.
Frequently asked questions
Is North Korea cashless?
North Korea scores 1/100 on Cashlessy (cash essential), ranking #197 of 197 countries. Visitors can only enter on organised tours and pay in euros, Chinese yuan or US dollars in cash. Foreign cards do not work.
Do I need cash in North Korea?
Yes, plenty. Most payments in North Korea are made in cash, so plan how you will get it.
Are credit cards accepted in North Korea?
Rarely or not at all. Do not count on using a foreign card in North Korea.
Do you tip in North Korea?
Tipping guides in foreign currency is customary on organised tours.
Compare with Asia
Editorial estimate, last reviewed September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.