How to Send Money from Korea to Nepal: Complete Guide for 2026

Are you a Nepali worker or student in Korea who needs to send money home? You're not alone. Thousands of Nepalis living in Korea send money to their families every month. But with so many options available, how do you find the best way to send money from Korea to Nepal?

In this guide, we'll show you the best services, compare fees and exchange rates, and give you practical tips to save money on every transfer. Whether you're sending money to an eSewa wallet, a bank account, or for cash pickup, we'll help you make the right choice.

🎯 Why Choosing the Right Service Matters

When you send money from Korea to Nepal, small differences in fees and exchange rates can mean big savings.

💡 Example: If you send 1,000,000 KRW (about 780 USD), a 2% difference in the exchange rate means you lose about 20,000 NPR. That's money that could go to your family instead.

The good news? You have many options today. Digital remittance services offer better rates and faster transfers than traditional banks. Let's explore your options.

🏆 Best Ways to Send Money from Korea to Nepal

1️⃣ Digital Remittance Apps (Best for Most People)

✅ Recommended for: Transfers under 15,000,000 KRW

Digital apps usually offer the best combination of good rates, low fees, and fast delivery. Here are the top options:

📱 IME Remit

• Best for: Direct transfers to IME Pay wallets and bank accounts
• Speed: Usually same-day or next-day
• Features: Trusted by millions of Nepalis worldwide
• Receiving options: Bank deposit, cash pickup, mobile wallet
• Coverage: Wide network across Nepal

📱 eSewa Money Transfer

• Best for: Sending to eSewa wallets
• Speed: Instant to eSewa wallets
• Features: 80% of transactions are digital, 100,000+ wallet agents in Nepal
• Receiving options: eSewa wallet, bank deposit, cash pickup at 10,000+ locations
• Note: Very popular among Nepali families who use eSewa for daily payments

📱 RupeeSend

• Best for: Licensed and regulated transfers
• Speed: Fast processing
• Features: First Korean government-authorized remittance company (License 2017-03)
• Coverage: Specializes in Nepal transfers with coverage to 200+ countries

📱 Remitly

• Best for: Quick and affordable transfers
• Speed: Fast delivery options available
• Features: No 1% remittance tax on digital transfers
• Benefits: User-friendly app, secure transfers

📱 Gmoneytrans

• Best for: Competitive exchange rates
• Features: Continuously compares rates to offer the best exchange rate
• Note: Claims to consistently provide the best rates among Korean remittance companies

2️⃣ Currency Brokers (Best for Large Transfers)

✅ Recommended for: Transfers over 15,000,000 KRW

If you're sending large amounts (for example, buying property in Nepal or making a big investment), currency brokers can offer better rates than apps or banks.

👍 Pros

• Best exchange rates for large amounts
• Personalized service
• Can negotiate rates

👎 Cons

• May have minimum transfer amounts
• Not as fast as digital apps
• More paperwork required

3️⃣ Banks (Most Traditional but Expensive)

⚠️ Not usually recommended unless you need specific bank services

Traditional Korean banks (like KB, Shinhan, Woori) can send money to Nepal, but they usually have:

• Higher fees (often 20,000–30,000 KRW)
• Less favorable exchange rates
• Slower processing (2–5 business days)
• More paperwork required

4️⃣ Western Union

✅ Best for: Emergency cash pickup

Western Union is available worldwide, but:

• Fees can be high
• Exchange rates include a markup (1–7%)
• Better for emergencies than regular transfers

📋 How to Send Money from Korea to Nepal: Step-by-Step

Here's a simple guide to send money using a digital remittance app.

✅ Step 1: Choose Your Service

• Compare rates using RemitBuddy
• Check the total cost (fees + exchange rate)
• Read user reviews

✅ Step 2: Download the App and Register

• Download the app from Google Play or App Store
• Prepare your documents:
  • Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport
  • Korean phone number
  • Korean bank account
• Complete the registration and verify your identity

✅ Step 3: Enter Transfer Details

• Enter the amount you want to send (in KRW)
• See how much your recipient will receive (in NPR)
• Check the exchange rate and fees
• Choose the delivery method:
  • Mobile wallet (eSewa, IME Pay) – Fastest
  • Bank deposit – Good for large amounts
  • Cash pickup – Good if recipient doesn't have bank account

✅ Step 4: Enter Recipient Information

For mobile wallet (eSewa/IME Pay):

• Recipient's name (exactly as registered)
• Mobile wallet number
• Phone number

For bank deposit:

• Recipient's full name
• Bank name and branch
• Account number

For cash pickup:

• Recipient's full name
• ID number
• Pickup location

✅ Step 5: Pay for Your Transfer

• Link your Korean bank account
• Or pay by card
• Review all details carefully
• Confirm the transfer

✅ Step 6: Track Your Transfer

• Get a tracking number
• Receive notifications when money is sent and received
• Save the receipt for your records

💡 First transfer tip: Your first transfer may take longer (1–2 days) because the service verifies your identity. After that, transfers are usually much faster.

🏦 How to Choose the Best Receiving Method in Nepal

Nepal has several ways to receive money. Choose based on your recipient's needs.

📲 eSewa Wallet (Best for Digital Users)

Good if your recipient:

• Uses eSewa for shopping and bill payments
• Wants instant access to money
• Lives in a city with good internet

How it works:

• Money arrives instantly to eSewa account
• Recipient can use for payments or withdraw at 100,000+ agents
• Very convenient for daily use

📲 IME Pay (Good for IME Users)

Good if your recipient:

• Already uses IME Pay
• Wants mobile wallet convenience
• Needs wide acceptance

How it works:

• Fast transfer to IME Pay wallet
• Can use for payments or withdraw at agents
• Wide network across Nepal

🏛️ Bank Deposit (Best for Large Amounts)

Good if your recipient:

• Has a bank account
• Receives large amounts
• Wants money in a secure account

How it works:

• Money goes directly to bank account
• Available at 65+ banks in Nepal
• Usually arrives within 1–2 business days
• Good for savings or large expenses

💵 Cash Pickup (Best for Non-Digital Users)

Good if your recipient:

• Doesn't have a bank account or mobile wallet
• Lives in a rural area
• Prefers cash

How it works:

• Recipient goes to pickup location with ID
• Shows tracking number
• Receives cash immediately
• Available at thousands of locations

💡 Tips to Save Money on Transfers

1. Compare Before Every Transfer

Exchange rates change daily. What's cheapest today might not be cheapest tomorrow. Use RemitBuddy to compare:

• Exchange rates
• Transfer fees
• Total cost
• Delivery speed

2. Understand the Total Cost

Don't just look at fees. The exchange rate matters more!

📊 Example

3. Send Larger Amounts Less Often

If possible, send money once or twice a month instead of weekly:

• Pay fees fewer times
• Often get better rates for larger amounts
• Save time

⚠️ But be careful: Don't send more than you can afford. Only send what you planned to send.

4. Use Mobile Wallet for Small Amounts

For small, regular transfers:

• eSewa or IME Pay transfers are often cheapest
• Instant delivery
• Recipient can use immediately
• Lower fees than bank transfers

5. Avoid Peak Times

Some services offer better rates during off-peak hours. Also:

• Avoid sending on Korean holidays (banks closed)
• Avoid sending on Nepali holidays (may delay cash pickup)

6. Watch the Exchange Rate

The KRW to NPR exchange rate changes based on:

• Global currency markets
• Economic news
• Demand and supply

When the rate is good, consider sending a bit more if you can afford it.

7. Use Promotions and Referrals

Many services offer:

• First transfer free or discounted
• Referral bonuses
• Special promotions during festivals (Dashain, Tihar)

Sign up for newsletters to get notified.

💰 Common Fees When Sending Money to Nepal

Transfer Fee

This is what the service charges to send money. Usually:

Exchange Rate Markup

This is the hidden cost. Services buy currency at one rate and sell to you at a different rate. The difference is their profit.

📊 Example

• ✅ Good services have small markups (0.5–2%)
• ❌ Bad services have large markups (3–7%)

Korean Remittance Tax

✨ Good news! Digital transfers usually don't have the 1% Korean remittance tax. Always confirm this with your service.

📄 Important Documents You Need

For Registration (First Time)

• Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport
• Korean phone number
• Korean bank account or debit/credit card
• Proof of address (may be required)

For Each Transfer

• Recipient's full name (exactly as on ID or wallet registration)
• Recipient's mobile wallet number, bank account, or ID for cash pickup
• Purpose of transfer (family support, education, etc.)

⚠️ Important: Make sure the recipient's name is spelled exactly right. Wrong spelling can delay or block the transfer.

⏱️ How Long Does It Take?

Transfer speed depends on the receiving method:

💡 First transfer: May take 1–2 extra days for verification.

Factors that can delay:

• Weekends and holidays
• Bank verification processes
• Incorrect recipient information
• Large amounts (may need extra verification)

📊 Transfer Limits

Most services have limits:

💡 To increase limits: Complete full verification with ID, proof of income, and proof of address.

🔒 Safety Tips

Choose Licensed Services

Only use services licensed by Korean financial authorities:

• Check for license number on their website
• Read reviews from other Nepali users
• Avoid unknown services with "too good to be true" rates

Verify Before Sending

Always double-check:

• Recipient's name (exact spelling)
• Account or wallet number
• Amount you're sending
• Amount recipient will receive
• Fees and exchange rate

Keep Records

Save:

• Transaction receipts
• Tracking numbers
• Confirmation emails
• Screenshots

You need these if there's a problem.

🚨 Avoid Scams

Never:

• Send money to someone claiming to be from the remittance service asking for your password
• Share your PIN or password
• Use unofficial apps or websites
• Send money to "agents" who promise better rates

Protect Your Information

• Use strong passwords
• Enable two-factor authentication
• Don't use public WiFi for transfers
• Log out after each session

🎯 Special Situations

🆘 Sending for Emergencies

If you need to send money urgently:

• Use eSewa or IME Pay for instant wallet transfers
• Or use Western Union for emergency cash pickup
• Expect to pay higher fees for fastest service

🏠 Large Transfers (Property, Education)

For amounts over 15,000,000 KRW:

• Consider currency brokers for better rates
• Prepare extra documentation
• Allow more time for verification
• Check if bank transfer is better for very large amounts

📅 Regular Monthly Support

If you send the same amount monthly:

• Some services offer subscription or scheduled transfers
• You can get better rates for regular customers
• Save recipient information for faster transfers

🪔 During Dashain and Tihar

During major Nepali festivals:

• Transfer volume increases (slower service possible)
• Some services offer promotional rates
• Plan ahead and send early
• Check holiday schedules for both Korea and Nepal

💱 Understanding Exchange Rates

The exchange rate between Korean Won (KRW) and Nepali Rupee (NPR) changes every day. As of early 2026:

💵 Approximate rate: 1 KRW ≈ 0.078 NPR (or 1,000 KRW ≈ 78 NPR)

This means if you send 1,000,000 KRW, your recipient should get around 78,000 NPR (before fees).

What affects the rate?

• Korean economy
• Nepali economy
• Global currency markets
• Supply and demand

⚠️ Your service's rate will be slightly lower because they add a markup. Compare services to find the smallest markup.

🌟 Why Use RemitBuddy?

Finding the best service every time takes work. You'd need to:

• Check multiple apps and websites
• Calculate total costs
• Compare exchange rates
• Read reviews

RemitBuddy does this for you:

• ✅ Compare multiple services in one place
• ✅ See total cost (fees + exchange rate) clearly
• ✅ Find the cheapest option for your amount
• ✅ Save time – no need to check each service separately
• ✅ Get current rates – updated regularly

👉 Visit www.remitbuddy.com to compare and find the best service for your Nepal transfer today.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the cheapest way to send money from Korea to Nepal?

For most people, digital apps like IME Remit, eSewa Money Transfer, or RupeeSend offer the best combination of low fees and good exchange rates. For large amounts over 15,000,000 KRW, currency brokers may be cheaper. Always compare using RemitBuddy before sending.

Q2. How long does it take to send money to Nepal?

It depends on the receiving method. eSewa wallet transfers are instant. IME Pay and cash pickup usually take same-day to next-day. Bank deposits take 1–2 business days. Your first transfer may take longer for verification.

Q3. Can I send money to an eSewa account from Korea?

Yes! Many services including eSewa Money Transfer, Remitly, and others allow you to send money directly to an eSewa wallet. The money arrives instantly and your recipient can use it immediately for payments or withdraw cash.

Q4. What documents do I need to send money?

You need your Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport, a Korean phone number, and a Korean bank account or card. For the recipient, you need their full name and either their mobile wallet number, bank account number, or ID for cash pickup.

Q5. Is it safe to send money using mobile apps?

Yes, if you use licensed and regulated services. Look for companies with Korean financial authority licenses. IME Remit, RupeeSend, and eSewa Money Transfer are all established, licensed services trusted by thousands of users.

Q6. What is the maximum amount I can send?

This varies by service and your verification level. Most services allow 3,000,000–10,000,000 KRW per transfer. Annual limits depend on your visa status. Complete full verification to increase your limits.

Q7. Which is better – bank deposit or mobile wallet?

It depends on your recipient. Mobile wallets (eSewa, IME Pay) are faster and more convenient for daily use. Bank deposits are better for large amounts or if your recipient wants to save the money. Choose based on your recipient's needs.

Q8. Do I pay tax when sending money to Nepal?

Digital transfers usually don't have the 1% Korean remittance tax, but always confirm with your service. You may need to report the transfer for tax purposes in Korea if it's a large amount.

💚 Compare remittance services and find the best rates at RemitBuddy