Bank of Korea
The Bank of Korea operates as the central monetary authority overseeing a technologically advanced currency system, notably defined by historical portraiture and high-security banknote production.
Quick Facts
Institutional Identity
The Bank of Korea serves as the Republic’s central monetary authority, managing a currency that reflects both economic precision and deep cultural identity. Its banknotes function as carefully constructed narratives of scholarship, innovation and national pride, positioning Korea among the most technically refined issuers in Asia.
Historical Evolution
The historical evolution of the won reflects Korea’s transformation from post-war recovery to technological powerhouse. Modern series introduced in the 2000s were redesigned in response to sophisticated counterfeiting threats, leading to the development of one of the world’s most secure banknote systems. A defining milestone came in 2009 with the introduction of the 50,000 Won note featuring Shin Saimdang—the first woman depicted on South Korean currency—marking a cultural and numismatic turning point.
Design Philosophy
Korean banknote design is anchored in intellectual and scientific heritage. The iconic 10,000 Won note featuring King Sejong is paired with the Honcheonsigye astronomical clock and the Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido star chart—one of the most celebrated science-themed designs in global numismatics. Produced by KOMSCO (Korea Minting, Security Printing & ID Card Corporation), the notes incorporate world-leading technologies including 3D motion threads, optically variable inks, microtext and highly refined latent imagery, combining scholarly symbolism with technical mastery.
For collectors
For collectors, South Korean won banknotes offer a unique intersection of science, culture and precision engineering. The Sejong 10,000 Won note stands as a global icon for astronomy-themed collections, while the Shin Saimdang 50,000 Won represents modern cultural evolution. Earlier issues, such as the 500 Won banknote featuring the graceful crane, remain highly sought-after relics of Korea’s earlier design era, making the won a compelling and layered addition to any advanced Asian collection.