One of the biggest challenges for travelers in Seoul is transportation. While the subway system is world-class, sometimes you just need a car. However, you might have noticed that empty taxis with red lights often ignore you on the street. This is because they are already reserved via apps.
For tourists, this is a nightmare. Most apps require a local phone number for identity verification. So, let’s figure out how to catch a taxi in Korea without a Korean number.
Don’t panic. You don’t need a Korean phone number or a Korean credit card to get around. In this guide, we will compare the two best options: Uber (UT) and Kakao T, and show you the secret “General Request” trick to use Kakao Taxi without verification.
Option 1: Uber (UT) – The Easiest Way on How to Catch a Taxi in Korea
If you are wondering how to catch a taxi in Korea with zero hassle, look at your phone. If you already have the Uber app, you are in luck. In Korea, Uber operates under the name “UT”, but it is fully integrated with the global Uber app.
You do not need to download a new app or register for a new account. Just open your existing Uber app, and it will automatically work. This is often the simplest answer to how to catch a taxi in Korea for first-time visitors.
it works exactly the same way in Korea
Why it’s great for travelers:
- No Setup Required: It uses your existing account and saved credit card.
- Automatic Payment: The fare is automatically charged to your registered card (Visa/Mastercard), so you don’t need to deal with cash.
- English Friendly: The destination search works reasonably well in English.
The Downside:
The only drawback is the number of vehicles. Compared to Kakao T, there are fewer Uber (UT) drivers. The ratio is like 9 to 1. In busy areas like Gangnam or Myeongdong, it works fine, but if you are figuring out how to catch a taxi in Korea‘s remote areas or during rush hour, you might struggle to find a ride.
Option 2: Kakao T – The Local’s Way to Catch a Taxi in Korea
Kakao T (Kakao Taxi) is the undisputed king of Korean taxi apps. 90% of Korean taxis use this app. If you want to know how to catch a taxi in Korea quickly anywhere in the country, this is the app to use.
Press the Taxi button
The Problem:
Usually, to register a credit card for automatic payment in Kakao T, you need to verify your identity with a Korean phone number. This is a huge barrier for travelers using data-only SIM cards who are searching for how to catch a taxi in Korea.
The Solution: “General Request”
You can still use Kakao T to catch a taxi in Korea without a Korean number by bypassing the automatic payment. The trick is to select the “Pay to Driver” option.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Set Destination: Open the app and enter your destination.
- Select Vehicle: Do not click “Blue Partners” or “Smart Call” immediately. Always try to choose ‘General Request’ first.
- Choose General Request: Find and select “General Request” (General Taxi).
- Select Payment Method: This is the most important step for understanding how to catch a taxi in Korea without a local card. Swipe the payment methods and select “Pay to the driver”.
Look down to find ‘Other Payment Methods’ and make sure to select ‘Pay to the driver’ to use the app without a Korean card.
I have my card already registerd in the screenshot, but you may be directed to register a new card. But you don’t have to always regsiter one; by choosing the ‘Pay to the driver’ method, the app simply calls the taxi for you. When you arrive at your destination, you pay the driver directly using your physical credit card (Visa/Mastercard) or cash. This is a crucial tip on how to catch a taxi in Korea.
Uber vs. Kakao T: Quick Comparison
Here is a quick summary to help you decide which app to use when you need to solve how to catch a taxi in Korea.
| Feature | Uber (UT) | Kakao T (General Request) |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | Use existing Uber account | Kakao Talk ID required |
| Phone Number | Not Needed (Uses existing) | Not Needed (Skip card registry) |
| Payment | In-app Auto Payment | Pay to Driver (Card/Cash) |
| Availability | Good in Seoul | Excellent everywhere |
| Convenience | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Essential Korean Phrases for Taxis
When you are learning how to catch a taxi in Korea using the “Pay to Driver” method, you might need to communicate with the driver. Here are two essential phrases:
- “Card gyeol-je dwe-na-yo?” (Can I pay with a credit card?)
- Note: Almost all taxis accept foreign credit cards. One who says they only accept cash is probably lying.
- “Yogi-seo nae-ryeo-ju-se-yo.” (Please drop me off here.)
Conclusion: The Best Strategy
So, what is the absolute best advice on how to catch a taxi in Korea?
My recommendation is to use a two-step strategy:
- Try Uber first. It is the most convenient because the payment is automatic.
- If Uber fails, use Kakao T. If you can’t find a car on Uber after 5 minutes, switch to Kakao T and use the “General Request” method.
With these two apps, you will exactly know how to catch a taxi in Korea and never be stranded on the streets of Seoul again.
Also find out other essential apps you will need in Korea.
Enjoy your trip!
