04 Aug
If you’re living in South Korea or just visiting for a while, renting a car can open up a whole new level of travel freedom. Whether you want to explore hidden beaches, mountain trails, or peaceful temples, four wheels make it easier. That’s where SOCAR, Korea’s most popular car-sharing service, comes in.
As someone who’s spent time living in Seoul, I’ve used SOCAR for everything from grocery runs to spontaneous weekend trips—like my getaway to Taean. Here’s a simple guide to help you start using SOCAR, even if you’re new to car rentals in Korea.
Why Use SOCAR in Korea?
✅ Affordable and flexible
✅ App-based booking—no paperwork or office visits
✅ Available 24/7 across the country
✅ Great for short trips, errands, and spontaneous outings
Step 1: What You Need to Use SOCAR
To rent a car with SOCAR in Korea, you must have:
A Korean driver’s license held for at least one year (here’s my post on how to get your Korean DL!)
A Korean credit or debit card
A smartphone (to download and use the SOCAR app)
Pro Tip: Don’t have a Korean license? Try alternatives like Lotte Rent-a-Car or Enterprise, which accept International Driving Permits (IDPs). You must be at least 21 years old, and if you’re under 25, expect a potential “young driver” surcharge.
Step 2: Booking a SOCAR Vehicle
- Open the SOCAR app and check the map for nearby SOCAR Zones—there are over 5,000 locations nationwide.
- Choose your vehicle type, rental time, and pickup location.
- Tap Reserve and receive instant confirmation.
SOCAR makes it super easy to rent a car on short notice. I’ve used it not just for weekend escapes but also for spontaneous Costco trips. Prices for standard cars typically range from ₩50,000–₩100,000 per day, plus gas (around ₩1,700–₂,000 per liter).
Step 3: Picking Up and Returning Your Car
Pickup is quick and contactless:
Unlock the vehicle using the SOCAR app up to 10 minutes before your reservation time.
Do a quick inspection and take photos to document any damage.
Start driving!
When you’re finished, simply return the car to any SOCAR Zone. The app automatically calculates your mileage, time, and tolls and charges your card—no extra steps required.
Pro Tip: SOCAR rentals can be as short as a few hours or up to a full day, all managed through the app. No need to visit a rental office.
Is SOCAR Right for You?
SOCAR has been a game-changer for my adventures in Korea. While it might not be the best option for long-term road trips (traditional rentals may offer better deals), it’s unbeatable for:
Short trips and weekend getaways
Urban errands like IKEA or Costco runs
Flexibility and app-based convenience
If you’re looking for an easy and flexible way to rent a car in Korea, SOCAR is your best bet. With a user-friendly app, thousands of locations, and affordable rates, it’s the perfect tool for anyone wanting to explore beyond the city limits—no hassle, no paperwork, just drive.
Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant
Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost.