South Korea taxis: a range of options for tourists, including standard, deluxe, and dedicated International Taxis with language-speaking drivers, all using meters and accepting Tmoney cards or cash. For convenience, tourists should download the Kakao Taxi app to book rides, see fare estimates, and ensure a smooth payment process, though foreign credit cards may not work for in-app payments. For a premium experience, Jumbo Taxis are available for larger groups, while the UT app (the Korean equivalent of Uber) can also be used. 

Types of Taxis

• Standard Taxi: The most common and affordable option, typically orange, grey, or white. 
• Deluxe Taxi: A black, more luxurious car with higher fares, often found near tourist areas and hotels. 
• Jumbo Taxi: Available for larger groups of up to 8 people. 
• International Taxi: A black or orange vehicle with “International” on the door, driven by English, Japanese, or Chinese-speaking drivers, and bookable online for airport transfers or multi-hour tours. 

Using Taxis

• Hailing a Cab: 
  Standard taxis can be hailed on the street, while International Taxis require advanced booking via phone or online. 
• Payment: 
  Most taxis accept cash, credit cards, and the rechargeable Tmoney transport card. 
• Meter Usage: 
  All licensed taxis are required to use a meter to calculate fares, ensuring fairness and preventing overcharging. 

Recommended Apps

• Kakao Taxi: 
  The preferred app for booking taxis, estimating fares, and ensuring communication with the driver as they can see your exact location. 
• UT (Uber): 
  The Korean version of Uber, which can be a useful alternative to Kakao Taxi, especially during peak times when Kakao Taxi is less effective. 

Tips for Tourists

• Download Kakao Taxi: 
  Before your trip, download and install the Kakao Taxi app for a hassle-free experience.
• Use a Korean Number: 
  You may need a Korean phone number to fully utilize the app for registration. 
• Carry Cash: 
  Even if you plan to pay via app, having cash on hand for smaller purchases or as a payment option is recommended. 
• Consider Other Transport: 
  For airport transfers, the Seoul Airport Limousine Bus can be a cheaper and more comfortable option for travelers with luggage, with comfortable seats and luggage space