Korea Tip of the Day (Stripes Korea)
To grab a cab off base in Korea, KakaoT app stands out as the most efficient taxi app, offering a user-friendly setting for non-Korean speakers. KakaoT makes it easy and quick to call a taxi nearby as it automatically sets your current location as the departure point, or you can move the pin to your desired pickup spot. When adding your destination, it shows the estimated fare and trip duration, so you don’t have to worry about being charged a foreigner price even if you’re completely new to Korea.
You can also choose a regular taxi or pick special options like premium and van-sized taxis. In major cities, it’s easy to grab special types of taxis quickly, but they often require reservations if you’re outside a big city. To plan your trip more efficiently, you can book a taxi in advance through the app.
KakaoT offers more than just taxi services. It also includes useful features such as finding parking spots, renting cars, using Kakao bike rentals, and more. Download KakaoT to make your life in Korea more convenient!
Taxi fares
Regular taxis (ilban taxi in Korean) start at 4,800 won for the first 1.6 km. The fare increases by 100 won for every 131 meters or 30 seconds. For larger groups or families, a large taxi can accommodate between 6 and 13 passengers, with fares starting around 7,000 won for the first 3 km, plus an additional charge of 200 won for every 151 meters or 36 seconds.
Night fare applies between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m., with an extra charge of 1,000-2,000 won at the start and 20-40 won more for every 30 seconds or 131 meters compared to daytime rates.
(KakaoT)
How to use KakaoT
1. Download the mobile app. Note: A KakaoTalk ID is required to use the app. KakaoTalk is a messenger app used Korea wide. You can create an account either with your U.S. phone number or Korean phone number.
2. Select “Taxi” on the main page and set a starting point and destination. Make sure to adjust the accurate point by moving the taxi icon with your finger on the screen.
(KakaoT)
3. The app will then display taxi options (General, Venti, and Black) along with the estimated price for your trip. Choose the desired taxi option.
(KakaoT)
4. In the payment section, select “Pay to the driver” if it’s convenient for you.
(KakaoT)
5. After completing the taxi order, the app will connect you with a driver in your vicinity and display the estimated arrival time of the taxi you ordered.
6. Cancellation is available, but a 2,000 won fee will be charged if you cancel a minute after the vehicle is dispatched.
