Taking taxis in Seoul: apps, fares and tips

Taxis in Seoul are plentiful and reasonably priced. Most drivers speak little English, so a little preparation goes a long way.

Types of taxi

• Regular taxis are the most common and the cheapest. They come in several colors, including orange, silver and white.
• Deluxe taxis are black, more spacious and more expensive.
• International taxis have drivers who speak English or other languages. They need to be booked in advance.

Booking with an app

Ride-hailing apps are the easiest way to get a taxi, especially at night. Kakao’s taxi service is the most widely used. Some apps now let visitors sign up with an overseas phone number and pay with a foreign card. Check the app store listing before your trip, because sign-up rules change.

Hailing on the street

Look for a lit sign on the roof, which means the taxi is free. Wave from the side of the road. At busy places such as major stations, use the official taxi stand.

Showing your destination

Show the driver the name and address in Korean. Saying a famous landmark nearby also helps. Phone maps with a Korean address work well.

Fares and surcharges

• The meter starts with a base fare and rises with distance and time.
• Late-night surcharge: fares are higher from 10 pm until early morning.
• Highway tolls are added to the fare.
• Most taxis accept credit cards and T-money. You do not need to tip.

Overcharged?

• Ask for a receipt. It shows the taxi number and the route.
• Call 1330, the Korea Travel Hotline, to report the problem in English.
• Note the time, place and taxi number if you can.

Official sources

• Visit Korea — transport information and the 1330 hotline

Prices, timetables and rules in Korea change often. We check this guide regularly, but please confirm details with the official sources linked above before you travel.