Traveling around Korea is convenient, and calling a taxi using a mobile app is one of the easiest ways to get around — even if you don’t speak Korean.
This guide explains how to call a taxi in Korea using apps, focusing on the two most commonly used options for international visitors: Kakao T and Uber.
Why Use Taxi Apps in Korea?
While taxis are easy to find in major cities, using an app offers several advantages:
- 📍 Exact pickup location via GPS
- 💬 No need to explain destinations in Korean
- 💳 Cashless payment options
- 🚕 Reduced risk of miscommunication
For first-time visitors, taxi apps make transportation much more stress-free.
Kakao T: The Most Popular Taxi App in Korea
What Is Kakao T?
Kakao T is the most widely used taxi-hailing app in Korea and is operated by Kakao, the company behind KakaoTalk.
It connects users to regular taxis, deluxe taxis, and even international-friendly services in some areas.
How to Use Kakao T (Step-by-Step)
- Download Kakao T from the App Store or Google Play
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/kr/app/%EC%B9%B4%EC%B9%B4%EC%98%A4-t-%ED%83%9D%EC%8B%9C-%EB%8C%80%EB%A6%AC-%EC%A3%BC%EC%B0%A8-%EB%B0%94%EC%9D%B4%ED%81%AC-%ED%95%AD%EA%B3%B5-%ED%80%B5/id981110422
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kakao.taxi&hl=ko - Sign up using your phone number (international numbers are supported)
- Enable GPS and location permissions
- Enter your destination using the search bar
- Confirm pickup location
- Select a taxi type and request a ride
Most of the app interface is available in English.
Payment Options
- Credit / debit cards
- Kakao Pay (optional)
- Kakao T Point (Bank Account, KakaoPay Money)
- Other Payment Methods (Pay to the driver)
Payment methods can be set in advance, making the ride smoother.
When Kakao T Works Best
- In cities like Seoul, Busan, Incheon, and Jeju
- During daytime and early evening
- When you want reliable local coverage
Uber in Korea: What You Should Know
Is Uber Available in Korea?
Yes — Uber operates in Korea, but not in the same way as in many other countries.
Uber partners with licensed Korean taxi drivers, meaning:
- Prices are regulated
- Vehicles are official taxis
- No surge pricing like in some countries
How to Use Uber in Korea
- Download Uber from the App Store or Google Play
App Store: https://apps.apple.com/kr/app/uber-taxi-%EC%9A%B0%EB%B2%84-%ED%83%9D%EC%8B%9C-%ED%83%9D%EC%8B%9C-%ED%98%B8%EC%B6%9C-%ED%94%8C%EB%9E%AB%ED%8F%BC/id368677368
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab&pcampaignid=web_share - Open the Uber app (same account works)
- Set your pickup and destination
- Choose an available taxi option
- Confirm your ride
The biggest advantage of Uber is its familiar interface and full English support.
When Uber Is a Better Choice
- If you already use Uber internationally
- If you prefer an all-English app experience
- In central Seoul and major tourist areas
Availability may be limited late at night or outside large cities.
Kakao T vs Uber: Which Should You Use?
| Feature | Kakao T | Uber |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| English Support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Payment Options | Multiple | Credit card |
| Availability | Very high | Moderate |
| Best For | Local reliability | Familiar UI |
👉 Recommendation:
Install both apps and use whichever shows faster or cheaper availability.
📌 Late-Night Taxi Surcharge (Midnight Fare Increase)
In Korea, taxis apply a late-night surcharge during certain hours. This expanded late-night surcharge schedule has been in effect since December 1, 2022 in Seoul and other major areas.
- ⏰ Late-night hours: typically from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM
- 💰 Fare increase: usually 20% and 40%, depending on the city and time
- 📍 Higher surcharge(40%) applies between 11:00 PM and 2:00 AM
The surcharge is automatically applied to the meter, so there is no need to calculate it manually.
Both Kakao T and Uber clearly display the estimated fare including late-night charges before you confirm the ride.
💡 Tip: If you want to avoid higher fares, consider taking taxis before 10:00 PM or using late-night buses where available.
Useful Tips for Taking Taxis in Korea
- 📍 Double-check pickup location pins
- 💰 Late-night fares increase between 10:00 PM and 4:00 AM
- 🚫 Some drivers may decline very short trips
- 🧾 Receipts are available in-app
- 🗺️ Navigation apps like Google Maps or Naver Map help confirm routes
Is It Safe to Take Taxis in Korea?
Yes. Korea is considered a very safe country, and licensed taxis are regulated by local authorities.
Drivers generally follow meters, and app-based rides reduce the risk of overcharging or route confusion.
Final Thoughts
Using mobile apps to call a taxi in Korea is simple and reliable — even for travelers who don’t speak Korean.
For the best experience:
- Use Kakao T for maximum coverage
- Use Uber for an English-friendly interface
- Keep both apps installed during your trip
With these apps, getting around Korea becomes fast, safe, and stress-free.
📌 This article is part of our Complete Korea Travel Guide.
Explore all essential tips for traveling in Korea in one place.