Online Payment Methods Explained

Press a payment method to see its key features.

Credit & Debit Cards

The most widely used online payment method, supported by default on nearly every online store and service.

PayPal

A global digital wallet service that lets you pay without exposing your card details directly to the seller, commonly used for cross-border online shopping.

Apple Pay & Google Pay

Digital wallet services that let you pay using card details stored on your smartphone or smartwatch, without needing the physical card.

Regional Simple-Pay Apps

Mobile-first payment services popular in certain regions, such as KakaoPay and Naver Pay in South Korea, that link to a platform account for fast checkout.

Bank Transfer

Moving money directly from the buyer bank account to the seller account. Fees tend to be low, but the process can be relatively more cumbersome.

Cryptocurrency Payment

Paying with cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin, which some online services have begun accepting as an alternative payment option.

Every payment method has trade-offs

PayPal is convenient for cross-border shopping, while region-specific simple-pay apps are convenient for everyday local purchases. Knowing which method fits which situation makes online shopping more convenient and more secure.

Fees and refund policies vary widely

Transaction fees, currency conversion charges, and how easy it is to get a refund can differ significantly between payment methods. Checking these details before a large purchase can save you from unpleasant surprises later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is PayPal often considered safer?

Because it acts as an intermediary, your actual card details are never exposed directly to the seller, which is generally understood to reduce the risk of card data being leaked.

Can I get a refund if I pay with cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency payments are generally harder to cancel or refund than credit card payments, so it is important to carefully check the seller refund policy before paying.