I was using an ATM near my hostel in South Korea, and it took my card and never gave it back. No error message, just gone. Has anyone had this happen? Whats the fastest way to get it back? Any advice on who to call or what to do next?
My HSBC card got eaten by a Shinhan ATM in Insadong in March 2024. I’d recommend calling your card issuer immediately and freezing it. Then reach out to the Korean bank (Shinhan has a decent English hotline at 1577-8000). If it’s a Citibank ATM, it's easier - they have English-speaking staff and sometimes let you collect cards same-day. Since then, I always use ATMs inside banks during business hours, never on the street. Also helps to photograph the machine and receipt if you can. Makes follow-ups way easier.
This happened at a NongHyup Bank ATM in Gyeongju and I nearly freaked out. The key is to note the exact ATM location and time. I called the number on the ATM (used Papago to navigate the Korean instructions) and also informed my hostel. They were kind enough to call the bank on my behalf. I got the card back in 3 days. Some hostels in touristy areas are used to this happening and may have experience guiding foreigners through it, so always ask.
Yup - same thing happened to me in Gangnam. The Woori Bank ATM just swallowed it and didn’t spit it out or say anything. I panicked but luckily someone nearby helped me call their helpline. They said it happens more often with foreign cards. I had to go to their nearest branch with ID and wait two days for pickup. In the meantime, I relied on Wise and Revolut virtual cards. Always keep a second card on hand. Don’t expect 24/7 support in English - bank staff are nice but limited in English outside Seoul.
That happened to me once outside a KB Kookmin Bank branch in Itaewon. If the ATM is attached to a bank and not a random standalone one in a convenience store, go inside as soon as they open. Bring your passport and explain the situation. They recovered my card from the internal bin in 48 hours. If it’s a Global ATM, they usually hold foreign cards until claimed or destroyed after a few days. If it was a CU or 7-Eleven ATM, contact the customer service number posted on the machine - though getting through in English can be tricky.