How can I get a Korean credit card as a foreigner, and what are the requirements and best options?
How can I get a Korean credit card as a foreigner, and what are the requirements and best options?
Note: This is an editorial persona question created from common experiences of foreign residents in Korea.
1 Answer
Getting a Korean credit card as a foreigner is possible but banks assess your residency and income. Generally you need an ARC with enough remaining stay (often a year or more), a Korean bank account with salary deposits, and some credit history, and foreigner-friendly banks like Hana, Shinhan, and Woori are worth trying. If you can't get a credit card yet, start with a check (debit) card, which anyone with an account can get, and build history with on-time phone and utility payments. Some banks offer secured cards backed by a deposit. Check your credit score for free on Toss or KakaoBank as it grows.