SBJ Bank South Korea Debit Card: Tap-to-Ride for Japanese Tourists in 2026

No more waiting in currency exchange lines. SBJ Bank is bridging the financial gap for Japanese travelers heading to South Korea with a new, seamless payment solution.

SBJ Bank South Korea Debit Card Features and Benefits

Starting January 19, 2026, SBJ Bank, the Japanese retail unit of Shinhan Bank, will launch a specialized debit card tailored for cross-border travel. The card allows users to pay for goods and services in South Korea directly using their Yen deposits, eliminating the need for traditional currency exchange.

The standout feature is the integrated Tap-to-Ride function. Travelers won't need to purchase or top up local transit cards like T-money; they can simply tap their SBJ debit card to access subways and buses across South Korea.

Capturing the Gen Z K-Culture Market

According to Nikkei, the move specifically targets younger Japanese consumers who visit South Korea frequently for K-Pop concerts and cultural experiences. By streamlining the payment process, SBJ Bank aims to become the go-to financial partner for this high-frequency travel segment.