KOREA CAR RENTAL
There is no denying the fact that it is quite convenient having a vehicle, when and where you need it, paying only when you use it and no maintenance headache. All these, and other valued qualities, combine to make rental cars a popular mode of transportation.
In Korea, chauffeur driven and self driven rental cars can be hired in major cities and tourist areas. If you are renting for less than a week, you'll probably do best with a major korea auto rental company. For rentals of a week or longer, you may get better rates from local companies, particularly auto dealers. Visitors who wish to hire a chauffeur-driven car must be prepared to pay the driver's meals and hotel expenses as well. There are also companies that provide limousine services for international meetings, wedding ceremonies and other events. They have experienced drivers who can speak foreign languages.
Cars are driven on the right side of the road and most road signs are written in Korean and English. Unless other wise marked, the speed limit is 100 km/hr on express ways, 80 km/hr on major highways, and 60 km/hr on smaller roads.
To rent a car in Korea (as a foreigner), drivers must have
- one year of driving experience,
- an international driver's license valid for a year from the date of entry,
- a valid passport, and
- be at least 21 years of age.
Cars are available in every category - from cheapest budget and economy through luxury, including the following:
- Compact
- Economy
- Full Size 4 Dr.
- Full size 4WD/AWD
- Intermediate
- Mid-Size
- Intermediate 4WD/AWD
- Luxury
- Minivan
- Premium
CAR RENTAL CHARGES
Korea car rental companies frequently offer two types of rates: a daily rate with a mileage charge, and a rate that includes free mileage (or specified number of free miles per day). Weekly rates, also, are available.
Other rate variable factors include:
- Type and size of car;
- How long you plan to keep the car;
- Gasoline charges;
- Insurance coverage;
- Waivers
- Drop-off charges (when you return the car to a location other than where you picked it up);
- Taxes;
- Time of week; and
- Season
Base rate
Base rate includes rent, combined insurance fee with 10% of surtax.
Extra charge
Extra charge will be made when the car is not turned-in on time.
High-demand season charge (July-August, weekend, holidays)
10% or lesser premium can be charged.
Allocation of cars, return of cars
When specific allocation of cars or return of cars is requested by a user, extra commission may be charged.
Payment method
Expected price will be paid in advance and the final charge will be made upon the vehicle turn-in. Payment can be made to korea car rental companies in cash or through major credit cards.
Traffic violation ticket is your responsibility. Accidents of traffic law violation might result in an insufficient coverage of the insurance.
Fuel expenses
Upon check-in, the vehicle must have same amount of fuel as when it was first picked up. If it's not same, you will be charged fuel for each 1km driving distance.
IMPORTANT TIPS
- Remember, however, to be wary of local companies if you plan to drive a lot; if you break down or get into an accident, they usually lack the support services of the majors.
- Be sure you understand the conditions of your reservation., the insurance coverage and any waivers offered by the renting company
- If relevant, ask about any restrictions on interstate travel. For your own protection in case of breakdown, be sure the company has offices in all the states on your itinerary.
- Always get a confirmation number.
- For airport rentals, be sure to give the customer service representative your flight number and scheduled arrival time. This will usually protect your reservation if the flight is delayed
- Before you drive away from the pickup station, inspect the car carefully for body damage. Be sure the lights and turn signals are working properly. Check the mileage odometer. Also, make sure that the spare tire and tools are in the trunk. Report any defects to rental personnel at once.
- Try not returning the car early. It could be expensive because your rate structure may change. Also be sure the check-in attendant inspects the car's body in your presence and that you agree about any damage
Although small town and country traffic is not bad but driving in Korea can be a hair pulling and sometimes hair raising experience. While expressways and high ways are well engineered, smaller roads are often narrow with little or no shoulder. Big city traffic can be very congested and traffic jams are a common problem. Moreover, Korean drivers are not known for their driving skills and will play loose with driving rules & regulations. They drive too fast and change lanes quickly without any notice. A car that has its nose ahead goes first. Bigger vehicles usually get the right of way. So be forewarned and be careful!
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