Global Major Cities Guide

Learn about options for renting vehicles for those who prefer driving around Busan.

Car rental companies in Busan offer a variety of vehicle types to suit different needs and budgets. Common categories include:

Economy Cars: Compact and fuel-efficient, ideal for solo travelers or couples.
Sedans: Comfortable for small families or groups of up to 4 people.
SUVs: Suitable for larger groups or those planning to explore mountainous or rural areas.
Luxury Cars: High-end vehicles for those seeking a premium experience.
Vans/Minivans: Great for larger groups or families with significant luggage.
Electric Vehicles (EVs): Increasingly available, with charging stations in Busan.
Specialty Vehicles: Some companies offer camper vans or vehicles equipped for outdoor activities.

The cost of renting a car in Busan depends on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and additional services. Below are approximate daily rates:

Economy Cars: ₩50,000–₩80,000 ($40–$60 USD)
Sedans: ₩70,000–₩120,000 ($55–$90 USD)
SUVs: ₩100,000–₩150,000 ($75–$115 USD)
Luxury Cars: ₩200,000+ ($150+ USD)
Vans/Minivans: ₩120,000–₩200,000 ($90–$150 USD)
Electric Vehicles: ₩80,000–₩120,000 ($60–$90 USD)

Additional Costs:

Insurance: ₩10,000–₩30,000 ($8–$25 USD) per day, depending on coverage.
Fuel: Gasoline prices in South Korea are around ₩1,700–₩2,000 per liter ($1.30–$1.50 USD).
Toll Fees: Highways in South Korea often have tolls, which can range from ₩1,000–₩10,000 ($0.75–$7.50 USD) depending on the distance.

Renting a car in Busan is straightforward, but it’s important to plan ahead. Here’s how the process works:

Choose a Rental Company:
- Major international companies: Hertz, Avis, Budget.
- Local companies: Lotte Rent-a-Car, AJ Rent-a-Car, Jeju Rent-a-Car (operates nationwide).
- Online platforms like Klook or Trazy also offer car rental services in English.
Make a Reservation:
- Book online in advance to secure the best rates and vehicle availability.
- Specify pick-up and drop-off locations (e.g., Busan Gimhae International Airport, Busan Station, or city branches).
Pick Up the Vehicle:
- Arrive at the rental office with the required documents (see below).
- Inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and ensure it is documented.
Return the Vehicle:
- Return the car with a full tank of fuel unless otherwise agreed.
- Allow time for the rental company to inspect the vehicle.

To rent a car in Busan, you’ll need the following:

International Driving Permit (IDP): South Korea requires an IDP based on the 1949 Geneva Convention. Ensure your home country is a signatory.
Driver’s License: Your original, valid driver’s license from your home country.
Passport: For identification purposes.
Credit Card: Most rental companies require a credit card for payment and deposit.

Minimum Age: 21 years old (varies by company and vehicle type).
Driving Experience: Some companies require at least 1 year of driving experience.
Young Driver Surcharge: Drivers under 26 may incur additional fees.

Rental companies in Busan offer several insurance options. It’s highly recommended to purchase insurance for peace of mind:

Basic Insurance: Usually included in the rental price, covers third-party liability.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage to the rental car but may have a deductible.
Full Coverage Insurance: Includes CDW and theft protection, with no deductible.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.

Driving in Busan can be challenging for first-time visitors due to heavy traffic and local driving habits. Here are some tips:

Navigation: Use GPS or navigation apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map (both have English versions).
Traffic: Expect congestion during rush hours (7:30–9:30 AM and 5:00–7:30 PM).
Parking: Parking is limited in busy areas. Look for public parking lots or underground parking at malls and hotels. Rates are around ₩1,000–₩3,000 per hour.
Road Signs: Most road signs are in both Korean and English.
Speed Limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h; highways: 100–120 km/h.
Toll Roads: Use a Hi-Pass card (available from rental companies) for electronic toll payment.
Fuel Stations: Self-service and full-service stations are available. Say “man-tae” (만땅) for a full tank.

Right-Hand Driving: South Korea drives on the right side of the road.
Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
Child Seats: Required for children under 6 years old. Request one from the rental company in advance.
Drunk Driving: Strictly prohibited. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%.
Mobile Phones: Using a phone while driving is illegal unless hands-free.
Emergency Numbers: Dial 119 for emergencies or 112 for police assistance.

If you’re unsure about driving in Busan, consider these alternatives:

Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with your destinations and parking options.
Check Reviews: Read reviews of rental companies to ensure reliability.
Inspect the Car: Take photos of the car before and after the rental period to avoid disputes.
Language Barrier: Staff at international rental companies often speak English, but it’s helpful to know basic Korean phrases.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to rent a car and navigate Busan with confidence. Safe travels!

Busan