North Korea Travel Forum

I'm not looking to exchange a lot of money, but just a little to get some things along the way.

I know USD are derated. I know Chinese Yuan, Japanese Yen, Euro and Korean Won are accepted at most places.

But if I were to pick one, which would be the best choice. I have all of them, just want to know which to pack.

The official exchange currency in DPRK is now euros (US dollars were taken out of circulation in 2003 but can still be used though we advise you to bring euros). It is possible to exchange other currencies (such as pounds, yen, renminbi, HK dollars) in the hotel but be aware that the rate will not be in your favour; it is better to change the money before entering the DPRK. We do not recommend taking in travellers' cheques as they are difficult to cash. Economic reforms at the end of 2002 mean that the DPRK won is now valued at roughly 165 won to one euro. It may be possible to get hold of real DPRK money in the hotel but the best currency to use when buying goods remains the euro.

Source: www.koryogroup.com

Thanks! Now all I have to do is break my Euros into smaller denominations.

FYI, obtaining North Korean Won is illegal for foreigners. If you want some, you'll have to sweet talk one of your guides, or tip them well. Bills can be found in Dandong China tourist shops.

Any place that you can purchase goods in DPRK will do the exchage calculation on the spot. They accept RMB, EUR or USD. Your change will be given back in the same currency as your payment.