How to report taxi overcharging and refusals for foreign tourists in Seoul, Korea

(Image: Seoul Metropolitan Government)

Seoul City has introduced a new QR code-based survey system aimed at addressing frequent complaints from foreign tourists about illegal taxi practices, including overcharging, refusal of service, and non-use of meters.

The initiative is part of broader efforts to create a safer and more transparent transportation environment for international visitors.

The city is distributing business card-sized flyers with QR codes to departing travelers at Incheon and Gimpo International Airports. These cards include images of Seoul’s major tourist attractions and allow tourists to easily report taxi-related issues in English, Chinese, and Japanese.

Tourists can complete the survey by scanning the QR code and reporting incidents such as fare manipulation, refusal of service, or operating outside designated zones. The input is automatically linked to the city’s enforcement system, enabling authorities to verify vehicle information and issue fines or administrative penalties when violations are confirmed.

Since the system’s launch, officials have noted improved data collection even when on-site interviews are not possible due to time constraints. By scanning the code at their convenience, travelers help Seoul gather actionable information for regulatory enforcement.

Seoul has maintained a dedicated taxi enforcement team since 2015, deploying 55 multilingual officers at airports and major tourist zones such as Myeong-dong, Hongdae, Itaewon, and Gangnam. Inspections are carried out six days a week, from 3 pm to 1 am.

In 2024 alone, over 7,400 foreign tourist interviews were conducted, resulting in 345 confirmed violations. Common infractions include excessive fare demands, non-use of meters, and operating outside authorized zones.

Penalties range from fines and business suspension to license revocation for repeat offenders.

With the QR system now active, Seoul expects to further reduce blind spots in enforcement and identify both problem cases and positive service experiences. The city plans to expand distribution of the QR flyers to hotels and arrival areas at airports, in cooperation with the Korea Tourism Organization and airport authorities.

Officials emphasized that the goal is to ensure that all visitors to Seoul can enjoy a reliable and stress-free transportation experience.