Everything You Need to Know About Taxis in South Korea
Beyond public transportation, taxis are an excellent way to get around during a stay in South Korea.
Beyond public transportation, taxis are an excellent way to get around during a stay in South Korea. Not only are they found on virtually every street corner, but their fares are quite affordable compared to the country's standard of living.
If you're planning to visit South Korea soon, here's everything you need to know about taxis in this country. In South Korea, every taxi is equipped with a meter that switches to time-based charging when the vehicle is stuck in traffic. It's possible to pay by credit card (Korean card) or transport card in most taxis in Seoul, Busan, and other major cities. However, in provincial towns, some taxis accept cash only. Always make sure to carry some local currency. Most of them are also equipped with cutting-edge GPS, ensuring you arrive at your correct destination.
Standard taxis or ilban
The most common taxis are the «ilban» or standard taxis. They're easily recognized by the taxi sign on their roof and the company numbers displayed prominently on the doors or trunk. These are generally recent-model cars with metallic finishes, white or orange in color. The models are quite similar to other cars you'll encounter on the road. Their rates depend on the region you're in. The meter typically starts at 2,800 won during the day and 3,000 won at night. Additional charges are calculated based on the distance traveled. For late-night trips (between midnight and 4 a.m.) or travel to another city, an additional 20% surcharge applies.
Luxury taxis or mobeom
The mobeom, or luxury taxis, are another type of taxi. As the name suggests, these taxis are more spacious and offer quality service. They stand out with their black color and yellow signage reading «luxury taxi». Their fares are slightly higher than standard taxis. The base rate ranges from 4,500 to 5,000 won for the first 3 kilometers and 200 won for each additional 200 meters or every 39 seconds when the vehicle's speed is below 15 km/h. Unlike ilban taxis, luxury taxis charge the same rate day and night. After your ride, you can request a receipt from the driver.
International Taxis
These taxis are distinguished by offering drivers who speak multiple languages. Very convenient for foreigners, they can easily understand English directions and take you to your destination without issue. This type of taxi is currently available only in Seoul. They can be booked by phone, email, or through their website. Their prices vary depending on the zone or distance traveled.
Calling a Taxi
For those who speak Korean or have some basic knowledge of the language, calling a taxi to pick you up is straightforward. Several companies operate taxis throughout the cities 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Simply call your preferred company and indicate where you'd like to be picked up. Within seconds or minutes, you'll receive an SMS with the driver's name and taxi number. Some additional charges may apply in these cases, but the service is worth it.
Frequently asked questions
A standard taxi (ilban) fare starts at around 2,800 won during the day and 3,000 won at night. For luxury taxis (mobeom), the base fare is 4,500 to 5,000 won for the first 3 kilometers. A 20% surcharge applies for rides between midnight and 4 a.m.
In most taxis in major cities like Seoul and Busan, you can pay with a Korean credit card or transport card. In provincial towns, some taxis only accept cash, so it's advisable to carry local currency.
The ilban taxi is the standard taxi, recognizable by its white or orange color, with a base fare around 2,800 won. The mobeom is a luxury taxi, black with yellow signage, more spacious, and with a higher base fare (4,500 to 5,000 won). Unlike the ilban, the mobeom does not apply a night surcharge.
Yes, international taxis are available in Seoul. Their drivers speak multiple languages, including English, making communication easier for foreign travelers. They can be booked by phone, email, or through their website.
You can call a taxi company directly by phone (some Korean language knowledge is useful) or use mobile apps like KakaoT. After your call, you'll typically receive an SMS with the driver's name and taxi number. Additional charges may apply for this on-demand service.
