This comprehensive guide covers everything foreigners need to know about renting cars in Korea. From preparing an International Driving Permit to choosing insurance, rental procedures, and safe driving guidelines, it provides practical tips tailored for foreign visitors unfamiliar with Korean road conditions and traffic culture.
If you want to enjoy the freedom of traveling in Korea, there is no better choice than renting a car. You can freely travel to hidden gems that are inaccessible by public transportation, and explore areas outside the Seoul metropolitan area like Nami Island or Gangwon Province. Especially after COVID-19, contactless travel and car camping have gained popularity, leading to a surge in car rental usage among foreigners as well.
Eligibility and Required Documents for Foreign Car Rental
Basic Qualification Requirements
To rent a car in Korea, you must meet several basic conditions. The most important factors are age and driving experience.
Age Restriction: You must be at least 21 years old, and for vehicles under 9 seats, you need to have held a driver's license for at least one year. Some companies may require drivers to be at least 26 years old for luxury or large vehicles.
Driver's License Conditions: There are two cases:
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International Driving Permit Holders: You can rent only if you hold an IDP (International Driving Permit) Class B or higher and are within one year of entry to Korea. Note that an "International Driving License" is not recognized.
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Korean Driver's License Holders: Foreign residents in Korea who have obtained a Korean driver's license are subject to the same conditions as Korean nationals.
Required Documents
There are essential documents you must prepare when renting a car.
For International Driving Permit Users:
- International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Passport or Alien Registration Card
- Credit card (under your name)
For Korean Driver's License Holders:
- Korean driver's license
- Credit card (under your name)
- ID (passport or Alien Registration Card)
Car Rental Reservation and Pickup Process
Importance of Advance Booking
Advance booking is essential as vehicle availability can be limited during peak seasons or special periods. This is especially true for popular tourist destinations like Jeju Island. Online reservations often come with discount benefits.
Major Car Rental Companies
Large Companies:
- SK Car Rental: Nationwide network, diverse vehicle selection
- LOTTE Rent-a-Car: Partnership with Hertz, international service standards
- Kia Rent-a-Car: Primarily new vehicle services
Booking Methods:
- Online booking (website, mobile app)
- Phone booking (English service available)
- Price comparison sites (rentalcars.com, Carmore, etc.)
Vehicle Pickup Process
Step 1: Identity Verification Upon arrival at the branch, provide your reservation number or name and present required documents.
Step 2: Contract Completion Complete the vehicle rental agreement, where you can select options such as additional drivers.
Step 3: Vehicle Condition Check Move to the parking lot with staff to thoroughly inspect the vehicle's exterior and interior condition. Be sure to check and record any existing scratches or damage.
Step 4: Signature and Key Handover After all checks are complete, sign the contract and receive the vehicle keys.
Insurance Options and Selection Guide
Basic Insurance
All rental cars are legally required to have comprehensive insurance (unlimited personal injury, property damage, personal accident). However, own damage coverage requires separate enrollment.
Types of Car Damage Insurance
The car damage insurance provided by rental companies is actually a "vehicle damage waiver system," which is a quasi-insurance product. Main types include:
Standard Coverage: You pay a certain deductible (usually 500,000-1,000,000 won) in case of an accident.
Full Coverage: Insurance company handles all repair costs without deductible.
Super Coverage: Unlimited coverage with no deductible - the premium option.
Insurance Selection Tips
Foreign travelers are recommended to purchase full coverage or higher insurance. This is because they may not be familiar with Korean road conditions and may face language communication difficulties.
Important Notes:
- Loss of use charges may apply separately
- Insurance coverage may be limited for single-vehicle accidents or drunk driving
- Insurance conditions vary by company, so carefully review the terms
Korean Road Driving Guide
Understanding Traffic Laws
Korean traffic laws follow right-hand traffic. At intersections without traffic lights, you must understand priority rules.
Key Rules:
- Mandatory seatbelt use
- Mobile phone use prohibited (Bluetooth allowed)
- Absolute prohibition of drunk driving
- Slow driving in school zones
Highway Usage
Korea's highways are well-developed, allowing convenient travel anywhere in the country. Having a Hi-Pass card enables quick passage through toll gates.
Toll Payment: Fees vary by distance, and Hi-Pass usage offers discount benefits.
Parking Information
Parking can be difficult in city centers, so it's advisable to check parking availability in advance. Most tourist attractions have paid parking facilities.
Fuel and Return Procedures
Fuel Policy
Most rental cars follow the "Full to Full" principle. You receive the car with a full tank and must return it with a full tank.
Fuel Cost Reference: Prices vary by region, but in Seoul, premium gasoline costs approximately 2,000 won per liter.
Vehicle Return
Return Process:
- Park the vehicle in the designated return area
- Turn off the engine completely and gather keys and personal belongings
- Go to the branch office and check vehicle condition with staff
- Final inspection of fuel level, exterior damage, etc.
- Settle any additional charges if applicable
Additional Charge Factors:
- Late return
- Insufficient fuel
- Vehicle damage
- Traffic violation fines
Costs and Discount Benefits
Rental Fee Structure
In addition to basic rental fees, insurance, fuel, and toll costs are additional. Rates may increase during peak seasons, so advance confirmation is necessary.
Average Rates: For compact cars, daily rental fees are approximately 50,000-80,000 won, with insurance costs adding another 10,000-30,000 won.
Utilizing Discount Benefits
Membership Discounts: Rental company membership offers grade-based discount benefits.
Partnership Discounts: Check for Hertz membership or credit card partnership discounts.
Price Comparison: It's important to compare prices across multiple companies and online platforms to find optimal conditions.
Accident Response Procedures
Immediate Actions
If an accident occurs, don't panic and follow these steps:
- Ensure Safety: Move vehicles to a safe location
- Call Police: Dial 112
- Contact Rental Company: Use 24-hour call center
- Take Photos: Document vehicle damage and accident scene
- Exchange Information: Share driver's licenses and insurance certificates
Insurance Processing
While rental companies assist with insurance processing, personal liability may occur depending on your insurance type. Always keep receipts.
Useful Tips and Precautions
Pre-Driving Checklist
- Set up navigation (Google Maps recommended)
- Save emergency contact numbers
- Learn basic Korean expressions
- Carry insurance certificate and contract
Understanding Cultural Differences
Korean driving culture has several characteristics. Many drivers tend to be impatient, and lane cutting is frequent. Defensive driving is safer.
Recommended Routes
Popular courses include departing from Seoul and visiting Nami Island, Gangwon Province, and Jeju Island. Highway rest areas offer regional specialties and foods that add to travel enjoyment.
Conclusion
Car rental in Korea can be a safe and convenient travel option with thorough preparation and proper information. With adequate preparation of an International Driving Permit or Korean driver's license, appropriate insurance selection, and understanding of Korean traffic laws, you can create an enjoyable Korean travel experience.
Above all, safe driving is the top priority, and don't forget to always carry the rental company's 24-hour call center number for any unexpected situations. We hope you create unforgettable memories while freely exploring Korea's beautiful landscapes.