How to call a taxi in Korea?

In Korea, calling a taxi is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can call a taxi:

Smartphone Apps:

The most convenient and popular way to call a taxi in Korea is by usinag a smartphone app. A widely used app in Korean is called “Kakao T Taxi”.

Install the app on your smartphone, create an account, and follow the instructions to request a taxi. This app provides English language option and allow you to track your taxi’s arrival.

Here is real advise when using this app. Select the button “taxi” on the home page.

After you set your destination, select “General Request”. General Request is calling a regular taxi which is the cheapest and what Koreans usually call for. But if you have many luggage, you should call for bigger taxi like “venti” because general taxi in Korea can only carry one or two big luggages and cannot carry much in its trunk due to its gas container in the trunk.

There are some time periods when you will have hard time catching a taxi in Korea. During night time around midnight to early morning is when taxi is out of the roads. You will have better chance to get one if you call for “Black” which is more expensive or try Uber instead. My advise when this happens to you, go out to the big street and hail in the air while call on the app.

Other options rather than apps?

Local Taxi Companies:

You can also call a taxi directly through local taxi companies. However, communication might be a bit challenging if you don’t speak Korean. If you’re staying at a hotel or accommodation, the staff can assist you in calling a taxi. They may have a list of reliable taxi companies and can communicate your destination to the driver.

Taxi Stands:

In busy areas, you can find designated taxi stands or queues where taxis line up to pick up passengers. Look for signs that say “택시” (pronounced “taek-si”) or simply follow the crowd. Queue up and wait for the next available taxi. It’s a common practice in Korea to wait in line for a taxi.

Remember, you must line up. Usually, taxis around these stands only take passengers at the line. If you try to take one that just left a previous passenger, the driver will refuse you and ask you to go to the line instead.

If you are on a less busy street or in a residential area or if you are far from the taxi stands, you can always hailing a taxi by raising your hand and wave. Look for taxis with a red or orange light on the roof, indicating they are available. (Green light is usually ‘reserved’ and no light is ‘taken’.) When you successfully hail a taxi, tell the driver your destination or show them the written address. It’s helpful to have your destination written in Korean or have a map handy.

Communication Tips:

While not all taxi drivers in Korea speak English, some may have basic knowledge. It can be helpful to have your destination written down in Korean or show the address on your phone. Many places in Korea have confusingly similar sounds. Take your time to give the right destination to the driver. Carry a map or use a navigation app to assist with directions.

Politeness goes a long way, so a simple “hello” (an-nyeong-ha-se-yo) and a smile can create a positive atmosphere.

It’s important to note that some taxi drivers in Korea may not accept credit cards, so it’s advisable to carry enough cash, especially for shorter rides.

Taxis have all their licensed information on their dash board and on the rear of the passenger seat. My advise is to take a photo of taxi’s license information in-case you accidentally leave something in the car.

Remember, safety is paramount, so choose licensed taxis, avoid unmarked vehicles, and trust your instincts when it comes to your personal well-being.