Driver’s License: Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and accompany it with the International Driving Permit issued in your home country.
International Driving Permit (IDP): South Korea recognizes International Driving Permits issued by countries that are signatories of the Geneva Convention. This remains valid for up to one year after you enter Korea.
Passport
Credit Card
Most car rental companies in Jeju Island only accept credit card payments(debit card are not accepted). They will verify if the name on the credit card matches the one used for online booking. So make sure to bring the same credit card with you!
*Note that some companies may not necessarily require the renter’s credit card; any credit card with a name may suffice. Please make sure to check the specific policies of the rental company when making a reservation.
The common car rental companies in Jeju Island are LOTTE RENT-A-CAR and SK Rent-a-Car. The following comparison is between the first two companies and gogoout:
| gogoout | LOTTE RENT-A-CAR | SK Rent-a-Car | |
| Age requirement | Driver’s license must be held for at least one year. | Minimum age requirement: 21 years old. (The minimum age to rent luxury cars is 26 years old.) | Minimum age requirement: 21 years old. (The minimum age to rent luxury cars is 26 years old.) |
| English Version Platform | ○ | ○ | ✕ |
| Level of user-friendly | –Fewest steps to complete a reservation. –Transparent customer reviews. | Logging in is required to access car details. | Not recommended for English speakers. |
| Jeju Airport Pickup | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| Airport Shuttle Service | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| GPS | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| Operating Hours | 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM | 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Service hours for pick-up and return are the same) | Desk service hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM Earliest pick-up time: 7:30 AM Latest return time: 9:00 PM |
| Insurance Coverage | ○ | ○ | ○ |
| Waiver of Business Loss Fee | ○(venders provide comprehensive insurance) | ○(only provided in Jeju Island franchise) | ○(only provided in Jeju Island franchise) |
Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance + Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
In South Korea, rental car companies typically provide Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance. This insurance is included in the vehicle rental cost and does not require additional purchase.
Under the Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance, there is still a deductible amount that the renter needs to bear. However, travelers who opt for the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) can avoid paying this deductible.
Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance + Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) + Non-Operating Compensation (NOC)
This insurance package provides complete coverage, leaving you worry-free. The rental car staff might even assure you that there’s no need to take pictures of the car during pick-up since everything is covered by the insurance!
*Please note that comprehensive insurance is only available in Jeju Island.
In Jeju Island, there are no toll highways, so you don’t need to worry about issues with toll fees!
In South Korea, there are several gas station brands, including SK, GS, S-Oil, and Hyundai Oilbank.
Gas prices are not fixed and are typically higher in urban areas compared to rural areas. If you want to save some money, consider filling up your tank in the outskirts!
| Gas Pump Label | Korean | English Translation | |
| Gasoline | Yellow | 휘발유 | Gasoline |
| Diesel | Black/ Blue/ Green | 경유 | Diesel |
Electric Vehicles (EVs) – South Korea also provides charging stations for electric cars, which are usually located in major cities and highway service areas.
How to Pump Gas Step by Step
Choose Payment Method, Fuel Type, and Quantity: Select the payment method, either 신용카드(Credit Card) or 현금(Cash), and follow the on-screen instructions to input the payment amount for the desired fuel quantity or choose 가득(Fill up the tank) for a complete fill-up.
If using a credit card, you will be prompted to choose between “pay in full amount” or installment options based on the displayed numbers.
Refuel:
Car navigation in South Korea is a breeze. Simply input the destination’s phone number, and the navigation system will do the rest. While there might be a few spots without phone information, you can use the app mentioned below to enhance your journey and ensure a seamless experience!
2. Naver Map
Naver Map stands as Korea’s premier map resource, accessible through both its website and app. With language options including English, Japanese, and Korean, it caters to travelers from around the world, offering an intuitive and user-friendly experience. While the English version may incorporate occasional Korean elements, its information surpasses Google Maps by leaps and bounds in terms of comprehensiveness!
3. Kakao Map
Here is another option, which also provides comprehensive information and is user-friendly for travelers.
Road Conditions: In Jeju Island, road conditions can vary depending on the area. Some regions may have narrow, rugged, or winding roads, so it’s important to drive with caution, especially in mountainous and scenic areas.
Left-Hand Driving: South Korea follows the left-hand driving system, similar to North American countries. Drivers from right-hand driving nations should still be mindful of the position of the driver’s seat and vehicle controls.
Lane Usage: Lane regulations are rigorously enforced in South Korea. Foreign drivers should follow lane rules, refrain from driving in incorrect lanes, and minimize lane changes.
Speed Bumps: Jeju Island has many speed bumps to ensure safe driving. Remember to slow down and approach them carefully!
Parking: Choose the right parking lot and follow local parking rules. Avoid parking in prohibited areas to avoid fines or towing.
No Illegal Parking: If there are no marked parking spaces on the road, you cannot park there. When you see numbers next to the parking spaces, they are designated for local residents’ use, so be careful not to park in those designated spots!
Drivers must obey speed limits and watch for road signs in since the country strictly enforces speed limits.
Please be attentive to speed limit signs, traffic lights, road markings, and other traffic signs and regulations. Make sure to follow the local traffic laws accordingly.
Check out Road signs in South Korea to get a better understanding of the meaning of each traffic sign corresponding to English!
In South Korea, drivers are required to be considerate of pedestrians and other vehicles. Foreign drivers should also adopt a courteous and respectful approach towards fellow drivers.
In case of any injuries, dial “119” and seek assistance. Call “112” to report the incident to the police and obtain an accident report, which is required for insurance purposes. Finally, contact the car rental company, provide details of the situation, and wait for further instructions.
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