Heading to Seoul? This Free Tourist Card Could Save You Money on Transport and Shopping
Planning a trip to Seoul? You may be able to pick up a free Lotte Tourist Membership Card!
South Korea is no stranger to clever travel hacks, and here's one that many visitors still don't know about.
If you're planning a trip to Seoul, you may be able to pick up a free Lotte Tourist Membership Card, a special card designed exclusively for foreign visitors. Better yet, it doubles as a public transport card and comes with shopping perks that could help you save throughout your trip.
Also read: Seoul Shopping Guide 2025: Where to Find Bargains and Deals
What Is the Lotte Tourist Membership Card?
Image credit: LOTTE SHOPPING CO. LTD. | Official Website
Launched by Lotte for international visitors, the card combines two things that most travellers already use in Korea:
A public transportation card for buses and subways
A shopping membership card with discounts and rewards
Think of it as a transport card and loyalty card rolled into one.
Foreign visitors can sign up using their passport and email address, making it relatively easy to obtain while in Seoul.
Why Travellers Are Talking About It
Image credit: TripZilla
One of the biggest advantages is that the card can be used for daily travel around the city, much like a regular T-money transit card.
At the same time, cardholders can enjoy benefits at participating Lotte businesses, including discounts at Lotte Department Store, Lotte Duty Free, Lotte Mart, selected attractions, and even some convenience stores.
The card also allows users to collect L.Point rewards, which can be redeemed across various Lotte-affiliated brands throughout South Korea.
Is It Better Than a Regular T-Money Card?
That depends on your travel style.
If you're simply looking for the easiest way to ride buses and subways, a standard T-money card still does the job perfectly.
However, if you plan to shop in Myeongdong, visit Lotte attractions, browse duty-free stores, or spend time at Lotte malls, the Lotte Tourist Membership Card can provide additional value at no extra cost.
For many travellers, it's essentially a free upgrade over a standard transport card.
How to Get One
The card is generally available to foreign visitors through participating Lotte Department Store locations, particularly those catering to international tourists.
You'll typically need:
A valid passport
An email address
A few minutes to complete registration
Availability and promotions may vary, so it's worth checking with the customer service desk when you arrive.
Also read: 14 Must-Buy Food Items from Korea’s LOTTE Mart
A Small Travel Hack Worth Knowing
Image credit: TripZilla
Most visitors arriving in Seoul immediately buy a transport card.
The Lotte Tourist Membership Card offers a slightly smarter alternative for travellers who also plan to shop, explore, and make the most of Korea's extensive Lotte network.
It's a small perk, but one that could save you money while making your trip around Seoul a little more convenient.
About Author
Born in a new village in Selangor, Malaysia, Cecelia loves three things in life: Good food, good views, and good deals. She also enjoys exploring new places and experiencing new things on her travels.