How to Transfer Money to Hong Kong from Korea: A 2025 Guide

Looking to transfer money to Hong Kong from Korea? You’ve got better options than ever.

Whether you’re paying remote staff in Central, covering supplier invoices in Kowloon, or sending a little love to family, moving money across borders should be simple.

In this guide, we dive into the smartest options available today. From mobile apps to bank transfers, cash pickup and currency brokers, you’ll discover the best way to send money based on your budget, speed, and purpose.

Key Takeaways:

South Korea’s remittance market is projected to hit US$8.60 billion in 2025, with annual growth of nearly 6% through 2030.
Transfer money to Hong Kong from Korea easily using apps like GME and WireBarley for fast, affordable service.
International platforms such as Airwallex and OFX offer advanced tools, low FX margins, and are ideal for business or high-value transfers.
Cash pickup services like Western Union help recipients without a bank account access funds in minutes.
Currency brokers give you personalised service and better FX rates for large or strategic transfers.
Traditional bank transfers are still an option but come with high fees, slower delivery, and unfavourable exchange rates.
Compare real-time rates, transfer fees, and speed to pick the best method based on your needs.

Best Ways to Transfer Money to Hong Kong from Korea

1. Money Transfer Apps

Money transfer apps are the go-to option when you need to transfer money to Hong Kong from Korea. They are fast, mobile-friendly, and easy to use. Most apps support the Korean language, provide direct KRW to HKD conversions, and keep fees low.

This makes them ideal for students, workers, and families who send money often. Whether you are paying rent, sending a gift, or topping up a friend’s wallet, these apps offer same-day transfers with better rates than traditional banks.

Top Korean Money Transfer Apps Comparison

Pros:

Fast (often same-day).
Easy setup via app.
Great for frequent, small-to-mid transfers.
Often in the Korean language.

Cons:

Some apps require a Korean phone number/ID.
Limited to personal transfers.
Not suitable for amounts ₩15M+.

Best For: Personal transfers under ₩10M with speed and minimal fees

2. International Money Platforms

If you’re looking to transfer money to Hong Kong from Korea, international money platforms provide more than just basic transfer services. They come with multi-currency accounts, competitive FX rates, and advanced tools for managing payments.

Platforms like Airwallex give users better control over costs and timing, making them ideal for large or recurring transfers. With features like real-time tracking and round-the-clock support, it offers a modern, scalable solution compared to traditional banking routes.

International Money Platform to Transfer Money to Hong Kong from Korea

Pros:

Lower fees for large amounts.
FX tools like rate-locking.
24/7 support.
Ideal for business..

Cons:

Not for everyday users or small transfers.
Some have a minimum transfer amount (~₩1M).
May require account setup.

Best For: Transfers over ₩10M or international business transactions

3. Cash Pickup & Global Reach

Cash pickup services solve a problem that many digital platforms cannot. When you need to transfer money to Hong Kong from Korea and the recipient does not have a bank account or needs cash quickly, cash pickup is the best solution.

Services like Western Union let you send money from Korea that can be collected in minutes at thousands of agent locations across Hong Kong.

While cash pickup may come with higher fees or less favourable FX margins, it is the fastest way to get money into the hands of those who need it most.

Cash Pickup Service Provider to Transfer Money to Hong Kong from Korea

Pros:

Instant access to cash.
No bank account is needed for the recipient.
Available globally.

Cons:

Higher fees and poor exchange rates.
Not suitable for large transfers.
May require in-person pickup.

Best For: Emergencies or unbanked recipients needing fast cash in Hong Kong

4. Currency Brokers

If you’re buying property, funding a business, or sending a large family remittance, currency brokers give you the best rates. Think personalised service, rate alerts, low FX spreads, and in some cases, rate-locking features.

These aren’t apps or websites. They are seasoned pros who can move millions for you, safely and strategically. Brokers like OFX or even bank-based options like KEB Hana FX offer excellent service and peace of mind.

Pros:

Personalised support from real experts.
Excellent for high-value or strategic transfers.
Tighter FX spreads than most banks or apps.
Tools like rate alerts, forward contracts, and batching
Secure, regulated, and built for large sums.

Cons:

Not suitable for small or everyday transfers.
Slower account setup and verification.
Limited mobile or app-based experience.
Transfers may take longer than instant apps.
Minimum transfer thresholds may apply.

Best for: High-value transfers over ₩15 million with expert guidance and secure execution.

5. Traditional Bank Transfers (SWIFT)

You can stick with the traditional route by using a Korean bank to transfer money to Hong Kong from Korea via SWIFT. It’s familiar, especially if you’re not yet comfortable with digital options.

But here’s the trade-off: it’s slow, costly, and packed with hidden fees. Transfers can take up to 5 business days, and you’ll usually face both a flat transfer fee and a steep FX mark-up, not ideal if you’re sending money often.

Bank Transfer Comparison

Pros:

Trusted institutions.
Good for one-time high-value transfers.
Safe & regulated.

Cons:

High fees and FX mark-up.
Long processing time.
No rate flexibility or alerts.

Best For: Those who prefer legacy systems or already bank with KEB/KB

Challenges of Transferring Money to Hong Kong from Korea

Sending money from Korea to Hong Kong can come with several challenges, especially for foreigners or businesses managing larger volumes. Here’s what can get in the way:

Limited access for foreigners: Most Korean apps like GME and WireBarley require Korean ID and phone numbers, making it hard for non-Koreans to use them.
High cost of SWIFT transfers: Korean banks still rely on SWIFT, which comes with high fees, slow delivery (3–5 days), and poor KRW to HKD exchange rates.
KRW to HKD volatility: The Korean won isn’t a stable global currency, and its rate against HKD can shift quickly, creating uncertainty for larger or repeated transfers.
Hidden FX costs: Many providers don’t show real-time exchange rates or margins, so users often lose more than expected on currency conversion.
Transfer limits and red tape: Sending over ₩10 million (~$7,000) typically requires proof of funds or supporting documents, slowing down the process.
Regulatory mismatch: Korea’s strict financial controls and Hong Kong’s open market framework may require extra compliance steps, but with the right approach, cross-border transactions can still run smoothly.
Language and app usability barriers: Many Korean financial apps offer Korean-only interfaces and support, making it difficult for expats to navigate or resolve issues.

How DSGPay Simplifies Your Transfers to Hong Kong from Korea

Looking for a faster, more flexible way to transfer money to Hong Kong from Korea? DSGPay offers a seamless solution tailored for individuals and businesses that need more than just basic remittance.

Why Choose DSGPay:

KRW to HKD Transfers Made Easy with a Named Virtual Account: Open a virtual account in KRW under your business name and transfer funds directly to Hong Kong platforms, clients, or suppliers through our integrated network.
Multi-Currency Support: Hold, convert, and transfer funds in 30+ currencies, including KRW, HKD, USD, EUR, and more at competitive FX rates with full transparency.
Trusted & Regulated: Operates under a licensed Hong Kong Money Service Operator (MSO), ensuring compliance and security across all transactions.
Business-Friendly Infrastructure: Perfect for businesses handling international payroll, vendor payments, or platform settlements.
Real-time local settlement in HKD via trusted payout partners.
Well-rated on Trustpilot for speed, support, and onboarding experience.

Final Thoughts on Transferring Money to Hong Kong from Korea

When it comes to moving money across borders, one size doesn’t fit all. To transfer money to Hong Kong from Korea, your best option depends on the amount, urgency, and the recipient.

For small personal transfers, platforms like WireBarley offer speed and affordability. If you need instant cash pickup, Western Union remains a reliable option. For larger transactions, OFX provides better rates and more control.

While there are many options available, DSGPay offers a distinct advantage, especially for businesses and professionals who need reliability, transparency, and speed. With named KRW virtual accounts, multi-currency support, and trusted local settlement in Hong Kong, DSGPay takes the complexity out of international transfers.

For anyone looking to upgrade how they send money from Korea to Hong Kong, DSGPay delivers a smarter, streamlined solution.