Car hire in South Korea

Localrent offers dozens of advantageous car rental deals in South Korea. With us, you can save time searching for a vehicle and affordably book suitable transportation even on the eve of your trip.

A rental car will help you get to know South Korea up close: see ancient temple complexes, historic royal palaces, and magnificent Buddha statues. You'll be able to reach remote sea farms and learn how pearls are harvested, enjoy the beauty of volcanoes and pristine white beaches. A car is the most convenient and reliable way to visit numerous interesting places during your vacation.

Advantages of Car Rental Through Localrent

1. Fixed Prices. The cost of car rental and possible options are listed on the website. When making a deposit, prices are fixed and do not change thereafter.
2. Minimal Advance Payment. When booking, you'll need to make a deposit of 15-20% of the total rental cost. The remaining amount is paid to the rental company when you receive the car keys.
3. User-Friendly Website Interface. You won't need to browse through all offers: convenient filters help sort cars by technical parameters, brands, driver age, insurance type, and more.
4. Different Car Classes for Rental. You'll find vehicles that match your requirements and budget: economy class, sports cars, minivans, and SUVs.
5. Safety and Security. You sign an official contract with the rental company that outlines vehicle usage conditions and guarantees. If questions arise during the rental period regarding the car rental, our support service will help resolve them.

Requirements for Car Rental

To rent and drive a car in South Korea, you'll need:

• Passport or other identity document
• Valid driver's license
• Bank card

The required driver age and minimum driving experience are specified in each car listing. To quickly find a suitable option among our offers, use the filters.

Traffic Rules in South Korea: Essential Driving Insights

When traveling through South Korea, drivers should familiarize themselves with local traffic regulations and driving conditions.

Key Traffic Rules:

• Right-hand traffic
• Speed limits:

1. Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
2. School zones and residential areas: 30 km/h (19 mph)
3. Highways: 80-90 km/h (50-56 mph)
4. Expressways: 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph)

• Seat belts mandatory for all passengers
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.03%
• Mobile phone use while driving prohibited

Traffic Navigation Tips:

• Extensive camera surveillance networks monitor even minor violations. The strictest control and highest fines apply to speed violations in 30 km/h zones.
• Consider local driving customs: horn honking, headlight flashing, and lane changes without warning are common practices among Korean drivers. Plan accordingly and maintain defensive driving techniques.

Parking Guidelines

In major cities, especially Seoul and Busan, parking can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited designated parking areas.

Parking Zone Indicators:

• White lines: Free parking
• Blue lines: Paid parking
• Yellow lines: No parking allowed

Many locations accept payment through mobile apps (Hi-Pass, Payco, or T-map). Underground and multi-level parking at shopping centers and subway stations offer the most convenient options. Payment is typically made through automated machines inside the parking facility or upon exit, accepting both cash and cards.

Hotels and guesthouses may offer free parking for guests—confirm availability when booking. Tourist regions like Jeju or Gyeongju have more abundant and often free parking options.

Fuel Stations

South Korea features both major chain stations (GS, Hyundai Oilbank, S-Oil) and smaller independent stations. Prices vary by location and service type: self-service or full-service stations.

The most economical fuel is typically found at rural self-service stations. Fuel selection is straightforward: gasoline or diesel. All fuel maintains consistent high quality regardless of brand.

How to Book a Car in South Korea

To book a vehicle through Localrent:

1. Select pickup and return cities, specify rental period
2. Use "Filters" to narrow search by vehicle specifications, class, driver age and experience, payment method
3. Choose from filtered options, review car details, add necessary options
4. Enter driver personal information, email, pickup location and time
5. Review terms, service cost, and make deposit payment

Upon booking completion, a voucher will be sent to your email. Bring this document (electronic or printed) to present to the rental company for booking confirmation.

Must-See Destinations with Your Rental Car

South Korea may not be the largest East Asian country, but it will surprise you with its exotic offerings. The country is divided into nine provinces, each with unique attractions:

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace Complex - Seoul's main attraction featuring the throne hall where kings received foreign ambassadors, guard tower, national palace and folk museums, and beautiful park with pond.
2. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple - Located in Busan, South Korea's second-largest city. Features Buddha statues, dragons, mythical animals, and wish-making opportunities. Tourists believe wishes made here will come true.
3. Hahoe Village - Experience local customs, attend mat-weaving workshops, and take calligraphy lessons. Regular theatrical performances and autumn dance festivals.
4. Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) - Located on the North Korean border, observation points offer views into otherwise inaccessible North Korean territory.
5. Jeju Island - Attracts visitors with shallow white sand beaches, spectacular views of dormant Hallasan volcano, and unique sea pearl harvesting industry.

Roads throughout the country are excellent, so prioritize vehicle comfort over off-road capability when making your selection.

Rental Locations in South Korea

Our website allows you to choose not only the city where you plan to rent a car but also the specific pickup location: airport, central station, hotel, rental office, or other city points. Available locations vary by rental company. Check options in your selected vehicle's "Pickup" menu.

Essential Tips for Renters

Pre-Rental Vehicle Inspection

Body and Interior: Even luxury rental cars often have scratches, chips, and dents. Photograph all damage and record each issue in the handover document.

Tires: Flat tires are usually visible without pressure measurement. Ensure spare tire and installation tools are in the trunk.

Lighting: While non-functioning headlights, hazard lights, or turn signals are rare in South Korean rentals, check all systems as these issues could significantly complicate your trip.

Geographic Restrictions

Rental companies typically specify prohibited areas, usually locations with unpaved roads (where insurance may not apply) or international border crossings.

Breakdown Procedures

If vehicle problems occur during your trip, immediately contact the rental company. They will help resolve any issues that arise.

Frequently Asked Questions