Taking a Taxi in Korea: Complete Guide
Korean taxis are cheap, safe, and everywhere. Here's how to hail one, use Kakao T, understand the types, and avoid common mistakes.
Why Korean Taxis Are Great
Korean taxis are metered, air-conditioned, clean, and surprisingly affordable — a 15-minute ride might cost only 6,000-8,000 KRW ($4-6 USD). They're everywhere in cities, and drivers are generally honest with the meter. The doors open and close automatically (driver-controlled), so don't pull the door — just wait.
How to Take a Taxi
Hail or Use an App
Street hailing works fine — raise your hand near the curb. The light on the roof means available. Or use Kakao T (카카오 T) app — it's Korea's Uber equivalent. Create an account, set pickup/destination, and a driver comes to you.
Get In
The rear left door opens automatically (driver-controlled). Just get in. Don't try to open or close the door yourself — it's automatic. Sit in the back seat.
Tell the Driver Where to Go
Show your destination on Naver Map or Kakao Map — most drivers prefer seeing the map. You can also show the Korean address or name. If your driver doesn't understand, call your hotel/destination and hand the phone over.
Pay
Credit cards are accepted in all taxis (tap the card reader in the back seat). T-money works too. Cash is fine. No tip needed — just pay what the meter says.
Taxi Types & Fares
| Regular taxi (orange/silver) — base fare | 4,800 KRW |
| Regular taxi — per 131m or 30 sec | 100 KRW |
| Deluxe taxi (black) — base fare | 7,000 KRW |
| Late night surcharge (midnight-4AM) | +20% |
| Typical Myeongdong to Hongdae ride | 7,000-9,000 KRW |
| Incheon Airport to Seoul (regular) | 65,000-80,000 KRW |
| Incheon Airport to Seoul (international) | Fixed ~75,000 KRW |
Tips
Do
- Download Kakao T before your trip — it works like Uber but better in Korea
- Keep your hotel's Korean address saved on your phone for the return trip
- Use credit card or T-money — it's easier than dealing with change
- Take a regular (orange/silver) taxi — they're perfectly fine and cheaper
- Screenshot your destination in Korean before heading out
Don't
- Don't tip — it's not expected and can be confusing
- Don't slam the door — it closes automatically
- Don't take 'call taxis' that approach you at the airport exit — use the official taxi stand
- Don't argue about using the meter — if a driver refuses, get another taxi
- Don't sit in the front seat unless the back is full
Kakao T Pro Tip
Kakao T lets you set both pickup and destination with a map pin, so there's zero language barrier. You can also see the estimated fare before booking. During rush hour or late night, use 'Kakao T Blue' (premium) if regular taxis aren't available — it costs a bit more but drivers accept immediately.
Quick Reference
Kakao T (free, English supported)
Card, T-money, cash
No — never tip in Korea
+20% surcharge after midnight
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