What Is the Currency of Kyrgyzstan? – Everything About the Kyrgyz Som (KGS)

💰 The Official Currency of Kyrgyzstan

The official currency of Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgyz Som (KGS).

The international currency code is KGS.

The Kyrgyz Som replaced the Soviet ruble in 1993.

🏛️ A Brief History of the Kyrgyz Som

After declaring independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Kyrgyzstan introduced its national currency, the Som (KGS), into circulation on May 10, 1993.

The first banknotes were issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 20 som. Over time, due to economic growth and rising prices, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, and 5000 som banknotes were also introduced.

💹 Abbreviation and Symbol of the Kyrgyz Som

• Abbreviation: KGS

• Symbol: Ⱪ or soms (also represented as KGS)

• Subunit: 1 som = 100 tiyin (however, tiyin is no longer in use)

💸 Can You Send Money from Turkey to Kyrgyzstan?

Yes ✅

You can easily transfer money abroad from Turkey to Kyrgyzstan via PayPorter.

With a network spanning over 185 countries, PayPorter delivers funds to bank accounts, agent locations, or mobile wallets in Kyrgyzstan within minutes.

Visit our page to send money to Kyrgyzstan.

🔹 Advantages:

• Low transaction fees

• Instant transfer options

• Secure and licensed infrastructure

• Wide agent network

🌍 Can the Kyrgyz Som Be Used in Turkey?

No.

The Kyrgyz Som is valid only within the borders of Kyrgyzstan.

However, KGS exchange can be done through exchange offices or some banks in Turkey.

It is also possible to send money from Kyrgyzstan to Turkey using PayPorter.

💡 Interesting Facts About the Kyrgyz Currency

• Kyrgyzstan is one of the first countries in Central Asia to adopt digital payment systems.

• In 2017, a new plastic-based and durable banknote series was introduced.

• The word “Som” means “pure” or “clean” in Turkic languages, reflecting the concept of “pure value.”

Last Uptade: December 2025

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