Quick answer: Korea plans to link the digital Onnuri QR payment network, used at traditional markets and small local shops, to Alipay+, so foreign visitors can pay by scanning a merchant QR code with the app they use at home. The government announced it on 1 October 2026 for next year. Explera DMC Korea briefs groups on paying at market stops.
What did the government announce?
On 1 October 2026 the government presented the first overhaul of Onnuri gift certificates in 18 years at a meeting of economic ministers. Onnuri certificates are a voucher and payment scheme for traditional markets and small local shops.
For foreign visitors, the plan links the digital Onnuri QR network with Alipay+, so a visitor can scan a participating shop's QR code with a payment app from home, without installing a Korean app. Reports say the link would connect about 40 payment apps from several countries. It is planned for next year; no start date has been published.
What could it change at market stops?
- Fewer cash stops. Guests with a supported wallet could pay small stalls by QR instead of finding cash first.
- Easier to find shops. The plan also puts Onnuri shops on map apps and marks traditional markets on map services for foreign visitors.
- Not yet. Until the link goes live, guests should still carry some cash and a card for market visits.
How do we brief groups?
- Before departure. We tell the tour leader which payment options work in Korea at the time of travel.
- On the day. Guides point out where QR payment is accepted and where cash is still easier.
- We confirm the date. We update partners once the Alipay+ link is live.
Planned with the agent
Explera DMC Korea plans traditional market stops with guides in Seoul, Busan and Jeju, with free time and payment briefings built into the day.
Send your dates, pax and requirements to b2b@explera.kr or WhatsApp +66 93 656 8090. Explera DMC Korea is IATA TIDS-registered (96215733) and an ASTA member (#900408341); our KTO and KATA registrations are in application.
Where this fits in our Korea programmes
The pages below carry the operational detail behind this briefing.
- Services: Tours & activities in Korea · Guide services in Korea · Group travel & GIT in Korea
- Destinations: Seoul · Busan · Jeju
Frequently asked questions
Can foreign visitors pay with Onnuri QR today?
The link to foreign payment apps is planned for next year. Until it starts, guests should plan on cards, cash or the prepaid cards sold to visitors.
Which apps will work?
The plan connects the Onnuri QR network to Alipay+, which reports say would link about 40 payment apps. We confirm what works before each departure.
Do guests need a Korean app?
No. The aim is that visitors scan the shop's QR code with the payment app they already use at home.
Does Explera DMC Korea include market visits in group programmes?
Yes. We plan traditional market stops with guides and brief groups on how to pay at the time of travel.
