1. Taxi Categories in South Korea
- Standard Taxi (Ilban / Orange, Silver, White): Standard base fare (approx. 4,800 KRW in Seoul for first 1.6km). Economical and ubiquitous.
- Deluxe Taxi (Mobeom / Black with yellow roof light): Higher base fare (7,000 KRW), experienced drivers, spacious sedans, no midnight surcharge.
- Jumbo Taxi (Daehyeong / Black van): Up to 8-9 passengers with large luggage. Make sure it operates on a taximeter rather than an illegal fixed call-van rate.
2. Using Kakao T with International Credit Cards
Foreign travelers without a Korean mobile carrier or domestic bank card can use Kakao T:
1. Download Kakao T and log in via your Apple ID, Google, or international phone number.
2. Enter pickup and drop-off locations in English.
3. Select "General Request" (일반호출).
4. Swipe payment methods to the right and select "Pay to the Driver" (직접결제). This bypasses the requirement for a Korean bank card, allowing you to pay the driver directly at the end of the ride using your international Visa, Mastercard, or T-money card!
3. Midnight Surcharges & Meter Rules
- Late-night surcharges apply between 22:00 and 04:00 (20% to 40% increase during peak midnight hours 23:00-02:00).
- Always ensure the driver presses the digital taximeter upon departure. If a driver refuses the meter or quotes a flat fee, dial 1330 (Tourist Helpline) immediately.