How to Handle Losing a Credit Card in Korea as a Foreigner

1. Reporting to the Card Issuer Immediately

The first thing you should do is report the loss to your credit card issuer. Most card issuers offer 24-hour emergency customer service, so it's crucial to contact them promptly to freeze your card. Major card issuers like Visa, MasterCard, and AMEX can be reached through their international customer service phone numbers:

• Visa: Contact through the global toll-free number
• MasterCard: Similarly, report through the global phone number
• AMEX: Report immediately to the customer service center

Lost Foreign Credit Card

 

2. Reporting to the Police

In Korea, if you lose your credit card, you can visit the nearest police station or police box to file a loss report. Filling out a loss report is necessary for insurance claims or submission to your card issuer:

• Language Support Service: Request foreign language support services at the police station
• Tourist Police: Tourist police are available in major tourist areas to assist you

Lost Foreign Credit Card

 

 

3. Requesting a Replacement Card

After reporting the loss to the card issuer, you can request a replacement card. Some card issuers can issue a temporary card in emergency situations or even ship a new card overseas:

• Temporary Card Issuance: Check if you can get a temporary card from a local branch
• International Shipping: Request to have a new card shipped to your accommodation or current travel location

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4. Preparing for Cash Usage

In case you lose your card, it’s wise to have cash on hand. You can withdraw cash from a nearby ATM or use the card issuer’s emergency cash service:

• Using ATMs: Withdraw cash from ATMs with international networks (e.g., Cirrus, Plus)
• Emergency Cash Service: Use the card issuer’s emergency cash service to receive cash

Lost Foreign Credit Card

 

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5. Seeking Help from Those Around You

If you're traveling, asking for help from your companions or locals can be a good idea. Hotels, travel agencies, or local acquaintances can provide necessary assistance:

• Hotel: Ask for help at the front desk of your hotel
• Travel Agency: Request emergency support from your travel agency
• Local Acquaintances: Seek help from people you know in the area

 

6. Monitoring Online Accounts

To prevent fraudulent use of the lost card, regularly monitor your card issuer’s online account and check for suspicious transactions:

• Using Mobile Apps or Websites: Check transaction history via the card issuer’s mobile app or website
• Setting Alerts: Set up real-time transaction alerts to immediately detect fraudulent use

 

I hope this information helps you have a safer and more enjoyable trip to Korea.

 

 

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