Open an Account
Opening a bank account is the first hurdle in Korea. Tell us your status and see exactly what you can do now — and what to bring.
The ARC (외국인등록증) is the resident card issued after you register your stay.
With your ARC and a Korean number you can open a full account — in branch, and at many banks right in the app.
- ✓Open a full account with a debit card
- ✓Set up mobile banking
- ✓Send and receive domestic and overseas transfers
How it works
Based on your ARC status, phone and stay, it shows which account and card you can realistically get right now, what to bring, and your next step — instead of guessing bank by bank.
The ARC (외국인등록증) is your resident ID card. Most full accounts, mobile banking and card approvals depend on it. Without it you’re usually limited to a passport-based basic account at some banks.
In practice, yes. It’s used for identity verification, one-time passwords and the mobile banking app. Getting a Korean SIM early clears the way for almost everything else.
No. Everything runs in your browser. Nothing you select is sent to a server or stored.
New here? Most people go: get your ARC → get a Korean SIM → open an account with a debit card → set up the mobile app. Each step unlocks the next.
Foreign-issued cards (especially some Visa debit) are often declined at Korean ATMs and online checkouts. A local debit card avoids most of this — Korea runs largely cashless.
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People also asked
We don’t rank banks. Look for English support, an app that lets foreigners sign up, and low fees — several major banks and internet-only banks accept foreign customers. Compare what fits your visa and language needs.
Increasingly yes, once you have an ARC and a Korean phone number for verification. Without those, visit a branch — bring your documents and ask about non-face-to-face options for next time.
Usually not right away. Credit cards normally need Korean income or credit history, or a secured deposit. Start with a debit (check) card and build history over time.