Taking a taxi in Korea is generally safe, clean, and convenient. However, some foreign visitors may find themselves overpaying due to unfamiliarity with local taxi fare systems, routes, and best practices. This guide will help you navigate taxis in Korea confidently while avoiding unnecessary costs.
1. Use Only Official Taxis or Verified Ride-Hailing Apps
To ensure a fair fare, always take an official taxi or use a reliable ride-hailing app:
✅ Regular Taxis: These are white, gray, or orange taxis with the word “택시 (Taxi)” displayed on top.
✅ Deluxe (Model) Taxis: Black taxis with a “Deluxe Taxi” sign; they are more expensive but offer higher service quality.
✅ Ride-Hailing Apps: Kakao T and UT (Uber + Tmap) are the most reliable options for foreigners.
🚫 Avoid private drivers or unmarked cars offering taxi services, especially around airports and tourist areas. These are often unregistered and may overcharge.
🔹 Tip: Kakao T has an English version, making it the most convenient app for foreigners. Download and set it up before your trip.
2. Always Ensure the Meter is Turned On
Korean taxis must use a meter by law, but some drivers may try to negotiate a flat fare, especially with foreigners.
✔️ As soon as you get in, check if the driver starts the meter. If not, politely ask:
🗣 “Please use the meter.” → “미터기 켜 주세요.”
❌ If the driver refuses or insists on a high fixed price, exit immediately and find another taxi.
🔹 Tip: Avoid taxis waiting outside tourist areas like Myeongdong or Itaewon, as they sometimes overcharge foreigners. Instead, walk a block away and hail a moving taxi.
3. Plan Your Destination & Fare Estimate in Advance
Many foreign visitors pay more than necessary simply because they don’t know the expected fare. Here’s how to avoid that:
🔹 Use Map Apps: Check the estimated fare and route using Google Maps, Kakao Map, or Naver Map before taking a taxi.
🔹 Learn Average Taxi Fares:
- 🚖 Incheon Airport to Seoul → Around 50,000–70,000 KRW ($40–$55) including toll fees.
- 🚖 Seoul City Center (5 km ride) → Around 7,000–10,000 KRW ($5–$8).
- 🚖 Late Night Surcharge (Midnight–4 AM) → 20–40% higher fare.
🔹 Have Your Destination Ready in Korean: Some drivers may not understand English well. Show them a screenshot of your destination in Korean or use a translation app.
🗣 “I want to go to Seoul Station.” → “서울역 가 주세요.”
4. Choose Safe & Convenient Payment Methods
Most Korean taxis accept multiple payment options, but it’s good to be prepared:
✔️ Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and Korean domestic cards are widely accepted.
✔️ T-money (Transportation Card): Works on subways, buses, and taxis—very convenient for travelers.
✔️ Cash (KRW only): Make sure to carry small bills, as some drivers might say they don’t have change.
🔹 Tip: Ask for a receipt to ensure accurate charges:
🗣 “Please give me a receipt.” → “영수증 주세요.”
5. Watch for Route Manipulation (Unnecessary Detours)
Some drivers may take longer routes to increase the fare, assuming the passenger won’t notice. Here’s how to prevent this:
✔️ Monitor the Route: Keep Google Maps, Kakao Map, or Naver Map open to check if the driver is following the expected route.
✔️ Address the Issue Politely: If the driver takes an unusual route, you can ask:
🗣 “Are we going the right way?” → “이 길이 맞나요?”
🔹 Tip: If you suspect the driver is intentionally taking a detour, firmly request them to follow the correct route:
🗣 “Please follow the shortest route.” → “가장 빠른 길로 가 주세요.”
6. Use Ride-Hailing Apps for Fair Pricing & Safety
Instead of hailing a taxi on the street, use apps like Kakao T or UT to avoid fare disputes:
✔️ Set Your Pickup & Drop-off Points: No need for language explanations.
✔️ See the Estimated Fare Beforehand: No risk of overcharging.
✔️ Track Your Ride in Real-Time: Ensure you’re on the correct route.
🔹 Tip: If traveling alone at night, using an app-based taxi is safer because the ride details are recorded.
7. Know How to Report Taxi Overcharges or Issues
If you believe you’ve been overcharged or mistreated by a taxi driver, you can report it.
📞 Tourist Help Line (1330) – Multilingual support for taxi complaints.
📞 Dasan Call Center (120) – General complaints and lost items.
📞 Emergency (112) – If you feel unsafe.
🔹 Tip: If a driver tries to overcharge you, mention “I will call 1330 for assistance”—many will correct their behavior immediately.
8. Extra Tips for a Smooth Taxi Ride in Korea
✔️ Avoid “Taxi Solicitors”: Ignore people approaching you at airports or tourist areas offering “cheap rides.”
✔️ Use Well-Lit Taxi Stands at Night: For safety, use official taxi stands at stations or hotels.
✔️ Exit First Before Paying: If you suspect overcharging, get out first before handing over cash.
9. Essential Korean Phrases for Taxi Rides
- 🚕 “Please use the meter.” → “미터기 켜 주세요.”
- 🚕 “How much is the fare?” → “요금이 얼마인가요?”
- 🚕 “Please take me to [location].” → “[장소] 가 주세요.”
- 🚕 “Please stop here.” → “여기서 내려 주세요.”
Learning these simple phrases can make your taxi experience smoother and reduce the chances of being overcharged.