Carrying cash from Japan to South Korea
Two separate rules apply to any cash journey: one where you leave, one where you arrive.
Do you need to declare?
Yes: and on both legs of the journey. Leaving Japan, Japan Customs requires a declaration above JPY 1,000,000. Entering South Korea, Korea Customs Service requires a declaration above USD 10,000. The two rules are independent: satisfying one does not satisfy the other.
The two legs
| Leg | Limit | Form | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Japan | JPY 1,000,000 | Declaration of Carrying of Means of Payment | Japan Customs |
| Entering South Korea | USD 10,000 | Traveler Declaration Form | Korea Customs Service |
The same declaration is required on departure. It can be filed on paper at the airport or online through NACCS.
Below USD 10,000 in total means of payment, no permission or declaration is needed. Above it, report the amount on the Traveler Declaration Form and keep the Certificate of Foreign Currency Declaration you are given, it is what lets you take the money out again.
If you do not declare
Japan: Penalties under the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act.
South Korea: Failure to report is subject to fines or penalties.
There is no limit on how much you may legally carry in either direction, the duty is to report it, not to keep under it. Failing to report is the offence.
Currencies
Japan uses JPY; South Korea uses KRW.
Sources: rules as of 22 September 2026. This is general information, not legal advice; always check the official authority before travelling.