Taxi Services and Apps: how it works in South Korea — first-hand
Short answer
Korean taxis generally accept cash, T-money cards, and Wowpass, which can be used directly at vehicle terminals. While ride-hailing apps like Kakao Taxi and Uber are available, payment options can be inconsistent, so it is highly recommended to carry cash as a reliable backup.
From real experience
When using taxi apps in South Korea (e.g., Uber, Kakao Taxi), payment options can be flexible.
While direct card linking might be an issue with certain cards like 'РСХБ UnionPay' or 'WOWPASS', cash payment is usually an option. Alternatively, funds can sometimes be transferred from WOWPASS to T-money for payment. In Uber, selecting 'pay driver' allows for cash transactions. Be aware that taxi availability can be limited during peak times or after events.
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Using ride-hailing apps like Uber in South Korea can be inconsistent regarding payment options.
While 'pay driver' options sometimes appear in Seoul, allowing for cash or local card payments (like Wowpass), this feature is not always available, especially in cities like Busan. It is advisable to have cash on hand or explore local ride-hailing apps such as Kakao Taxi for more reliable transportation.
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Payment via Kakao Taxi in Busan can sometimes be problematic with foreign cards like Wowpass.
While Kakao Taxi is a convenient service, it is advisable to have cash (approximately 100,000 KRW) as a backup payment method, as foreign card acceptance may be inconsistent. Locate nearby Wowpass ATMs in advance if relying on card payments.
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Taxi payment in Seoul for foreigners without international credit cards: Most taxis accept cash (KRW) or Wowpass/T-money cards directly via terminal.
In apps like KakaoT or Uber, 'Cash' payment options may be hidden or become available after local initialization. Informing the driver upon entry or just paying at the end is standard practice.
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To pay for taxi rides in Korea via apps like Uber, the 'pay in car' option depends on the city's infrastructure and user profile.
If the option is missing, try restarting the app. KakaoT also supports English interfaces and cash payments, which is often more reliable for tourists than global taxi apps.
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Airport taxis in Korea have designated stands.
Payment is accepted via cash, international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), or local travel cards like Wowpass. It is highly recommended to have the destination address saved in Korean to show the driver.
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Users are asking for information on how to book a taxi on Jeju Island.
Specifically, they want to know which taxi apps are available for use on Jeju and if they can pay with WOWPASS or cash. Information on the registration process for these apps is also requested.
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Korean taxis generally accept T-money cards for payment via terminals located on the armrest.
It is a reliable alternative to cash if international cards are not accepted or if the passenger lacks physical currency.
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In South Korea, Uber may offer in-person payment options such as cash or Wowpass directly within the app, which might not be available in other regions (e.g., Russia).
These options become visible when physically present in South Korea.
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In Korean taxis, payment is accepted in cash.
Passengers should state their destination after boarding. Clear pronunciation of the address is crucial to avoid being taken to the wrong location.