Taking taxis in Seoul and booking apps
Seoul taxis are cheaper than in Japan, and for three or four people they can beat the subway. Knowing how fares and booking apps work makes them easy to use.
Types of taxi
Most common are regular (mid-size) taxis in orange, silver or white. Black deluxe taxis have experienced drivers and roomier cars but cost more.
International Taxis with foreign-language-speaking drivers are also available for airport transfers and charters.
Fares
Regular taxis (daytime) start at ₩4,800 for the first 1.6 km, then add ₩100 increments based on distance and time.
A late-night surcharge of 20–40% applies between 22:00 and 04:00. Expressway tolls are extra on airport runs.
Paying
Almost all taxis accept credit cards and T-money. Cash is fine, but drivers may not have change for large notes.
Use the k.ride app
k.ride is the visitor version of Korea's most popular ride-hailing service. You can sign up with an overseas phone number, set your destination on the map and pay automatically with a foreign credit card — no Korean needed.
In busy nightlife areas or hilly neighbourhoods where hailing is hard, booking through the app is more reliable. Download it before you leave home.
When a taxi makes sense
Taxis are handy for journeys with two or more transfers, when you have lots of luggage, or for groups of three or four. My Trip Plan shows an estimated taxi fare for each leg.
Fares and times are estimates as of 2026-10 and may change. Check official sources for the latest information.
FAQ
How do I tell the driver where to go?
Show the hotel name or address in Korean, or set the destination in a booking app.
Should I tip?
No, tipping isn't expected in Korean taxis.
More guides
- Incheon Airport to central SeoulThree ways from Incheon Airport into Seoul — AREX train, limousine bus and taxi — with times, fares and how to choose.
- Transit cards: T-money and the Climate Card passYou need a transit card for Seoul's subway and buses. How to buy and top up T-money, and prices for the unlimited Climate Card tourist pass.
- How to ride the Seoul subwayTelling lines apart, transferring, how fares work, first and last trains, and etiquette — a beginner's guide to the Seoul subway.
- Seoul palace guide: closing days, fees and free entry in hanbokClosing days and fees for Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Jongmyo and more, free entry in hanbok, the combination ticket, and Bukchon's visiting hours.