What you should know before you rent a car
Practical information
Where to rent a car in South Korea?
Located in East Asia, on the Korean Peninsula, South Korea shares coastlines with the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea, as well as a border with North Korea. Its capital city is Seoul, which is also home to the country's principle international air hub, Incheon International Airport. Here, visitors will find a number of car rental companies – including Avis, Hertz, Rent a Car and Sixt. With well-maintained roads and beautiful landscapes through which to drive, taking a road trip through South Korea is a great way to see the country without being restricted by timetables. South Korea's railway network is well connected, with stations such as Seoul Station and Busan Station operating domestic railway services.
What are the driving rules in South Korea?
Planning to rent a car in South Korea? You will need both a valid driver's license from your country of residence, as well as an International Driving Permit. Drive on the right in South Korea, and pay attention to the speed limits, which must be adhered to. The speed limit can vary but is usually anywhere between 30 - 80km/h in urban areas; 60 - 80km/h on rural roads; and 80 - 120km/h on the freeways. The blood alcohol limit in South Korea is 0.05%; seatbelts must be worn by all passengers as well as the driver; and cell phones may only be used in hands free mode while driving.
When parking your rental car in South Korea, parking lots can be found at commercial centers as well as in towns and cities. Planning a visit to a particular tourist attraction? Check their website, as there may well be more specific information on the parking available.
Road trips in South Korea
Open roads lined with beautiful, colourful blossom trees; fascinating towns and cities; traditional temples and points of interest...there's a lot to recommend a road trip through South Korea. Discover the country's beauty by rental car from these three South Korean cities.
Seoul
Located in the north of South Korea, not far from the country's border with North Korea, Seoul is the nation's capital city and boasts a wide variety of things to see and do. Avoid renting a car to explore Seoul itself, and instead get around on foot and using public transport. Visit attractions such as the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Museum of Korea, and the N Seoul Tower – which offers breath taking city views from its observation deck. Then, rent a car and begin your South Korean road trip! For a day trip by rental car, visit the city of Suwon and its Hwaseong Fortress; or discover a more traditional way of life at the open air museum of the Korean Folk Village.
Busan
Located on the south-eastern coast of South Korea, overlooking the Sea of Japan, Busan is one of South Korea's largest cities. Home to beaches such as Haeundae and Gwangalli, the city is a popular tourist destination in South Korea. Be sure to visit the Haedong Yonggungsa Bhuddist temple and the Yongdusan Park before renting a car to explore the surrounding areas of Busan. The peaceful city of Tongyeong is a short drive away, and boasts beautiful nature in the Hallyeohaesang National Park as well as the chance to learn more about the city at the History Museum of Tongyeong City.
Incheon
Not far from Seoul, the city of Incheon is home to the vast Incheon International Airport – from which visitors can rent a car to explore South Korea. Before doing so, be sure to make the most of the city's many attractions. These include the beautiful Jeondeungsa temple; The Memorial Hall for Incheon Landing Operation; and the city's bustling Chinatown. Then, it's time to head off on a South Korean road trip! In Incheon itself, be sure to drive across the 13.3 mile long bridge between Yeongjong Island and Incheon. Not far from the city, Seoul is a great option for a day trip from Incheon, while visitors looking for a longer drive from the city can drive on past Seoul to the eastern mountain range of Taebaek. Home to the Seoraksan mountain and the Seoraksan National Park, the area is known for its natural beauty and visitors can enjoy hiking in summer and skiing in winter, as well as a visit to the beautiful Sinheungsa Temple.