Car Rental in South Korea for Travelers from Poland

Are you a traveler from Poland gearing up for an exciting journey in South Korea?
If you're wondering about local driving arrangements:

Can I drive in South Korea with my Polish license?
What local insurance is mandatory for car rentals?
What are the average rental costs?
Can I rent and return cars at different locations?
Are there specific driving rules to be aware of?

This guide provides detailed answers to all these inquiries, helping you plan confidently and enjoy a smooth driving experience in South Korea. A summary table at the end consolidates the core information for quick reference.

Can Polish Citizens Drive in South Korea?

Yes, Polish travelers can legally drive in South Korea with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP).
Notes: Please bring the Korea driver license or International Driving Permit (IDP) which issued from the country signed into Geneva or Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include UnionPay, Visa, Master, JCB, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers aged between 23 and 70 are eligible to rent a car.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from leading global providers or trusted local services in South Korea. Each option caters to different travel needs.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
11
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Easy online booking process
- No additional driver fees for family members
- Fast and friendly service
- Rewards program for frequent renters
Best for
Leisure travelers and families
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
90
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Strong global presence
- Loyalty program with rewards
- User-friendly online booking
- 24/7 customer support
Best for
Travelers seeking reliability and convenience
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
118
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
8
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Enterprise
global
8.5
Locations:
21
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Extensive network of locations
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- No hidden fees
- Easy online booking
Best for
Travelers seeking reliability and convenience

BELLA JEJU
local
8.5
Locations:
3
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient location in Jeju
- Free pick-up and drop-off services
- Local insights and recommendations
Best for
Tourists and budget-conscious travelers
WECAR
local
8.5
Locations:
6
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Convenient location in city center
- 24/7 customer support
- No hidden fees
- Easy online booking
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
TAMRA
local
8.5
Locations:
1
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized service
- Flexible rental options
- Convenient location
- Local knowledge of the area
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local explorations
JEJU ONE CAR
local
8.5
Locations:
6
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Convenient location in Jeju
- Flexible rental options
- 24/7 customer support
- Free delivery and pickup services
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local exploration
Jeju AngelCar
local
8.5
Locations:
1
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Convenient location in Jeju
- Flexible rental terms
- Free delivery service in Jeju
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Best for
Tourists looking for budget-friendly options

Recommendations for Polish Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You are renting a car for the first time in South Korea
Need consistent service across multiple regions
Prefer 24/7 customer support
Traveling for business or formal purposes

Choose Local Brands If:

Looking to explore South Korea's urban areas
Interested in budget-friendly options
Seeking vehicles tailored for local terrains
Prefer app-based or innovative rental services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Korea
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most Polish drivers prefer automatic for international road trips
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Polish insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Seoul, Busan, Incheon
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Jeju Island, Southern Coast
Vacation
SUV or Minivan with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Ski Resorts, Countryside Retreats, Jeju Volcanic Trails

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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Discover Popular Destinations in South Korea

South Korea is a vibrant destination offering a mix of modern cities and historical landmarks. Travelers from Poland can explore bustling Seoul, scenic Busan, or the cultural richness of Gyeongju, enjoying the convenience of car rentals tailored to their needs.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in South Korea, but additional coverage is recommended for peace of mind. Insurance inclusions and requirements vary by rental companies, so understanding options is crucial for a worry-free experience.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damages to the rental car in case of collision or theft.
65-110 PLN/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Provides coverage in the event the rental car is stolen.
20-40 PLN/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers injury or property damage to others.
Often included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers.
20-30 PLN/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout South Korea. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$35,100.00

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$35,100.00

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Polish travelers heading to Korea can optimize their car rental experience by following these practical tips, ensuring both convenience and savings.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Reserve Early
Booking your rental car at least 3-4 weeks in advance ensures better availability and lower rates.
Save up to 35%
Utilize Comparison Platforms
Leverage platforms such as Skyscanner or Rentalcars.com to compare prices and find the best deals.
Save up to 25%
Choose Fuel Policies Carefully
Opt for a full-to-full fuel policy and plan refueling at local stations for better rates.
Save PLN 80-150
Avoid Extra Insurance Fees
Check if your credit card or travel insurance covers rental car protection to avoid unnecessary charges.
Save PLN 150-300

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
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Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in South Korea.

Driver's License Requirements
Ensure you have the correct documentation to legally drive in South Korea.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required along with your Polish driver's license.
- Always carry both documents while driving.
- Make sure your IDP matches the category of the vehicle you intend to rent.
Rental Fees and Deposits
Be mindful of the costs associated with car rentals in South Korea.
- Verify if the quoted price includes VAT and insurance.
- A deposit is often required, usually held on your credit card.
- Additional fees may apply for GPS or Wi-Fi device rentals.
Road and Traffic Rules
Familiarize yourself with local driving laws and regulations.
- South Korea drives on the right-hand side of the road.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Pay attention to speed limits, as they are strictly enforced.
Navigation and Signage
Navigating in South Korea can be challenging for non-Korean speakers.
- Rental companies often offer GPS devices with English language settings.
- Road signs are in both Korean and English, but some rural areas may lack English signs.
- Using a reliable navigation app can be very helpful.
Fuel Policies
Understand the fueling policies to avoid additional charges.
- Most rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy.
- Ensure you refill the fuel to the required level before returning the car.
- Keep receipts as proof of refueling.
Rental Agreement Terms
Carefully review the agreement to understand the terms.
- Check the mileage allowance to avoid extra charges.
- Clarify the policies on vehicle damage and insurance coverage.
- Confirm the return time and penalties for late returns.
Parking Considerations
Parking rules and availability vary widely across cities and rural areas.
- Urban areas may have limited parking spaces, and fees can be high.
- Look for designated parking zones to avoid fines.
- Use apps or maps to locate parking facilities in advance.

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Traffic Rules Comparison: Poland vs. South Korea

Traffic rules in Poland and South Korea differ in terms of road signage, alcohol limits, and traffic priorities. However, they share similarities in seatbelt regulations and mobile phone usage.

Priority Road Rules
KR
Vehicles on the main road have priority.
PL
Vehicles on the main road have priority, but additional signage is common.
Blood Alcohol Limit
KR
0.05% BAC (strict enforcement)
PL
0.02% BAC (very strict enforcement)
Lane Discipline
KR
Lane discipline is strictly maintained.
PL
Lane discipline is encouraged but less strict enforcement.
Mobile Phone Use
KR
Hands-free devices only.
PL
Hands-free devices only.
Seatbelt Laws
KR
Mandatory for all occupants.
PL
Mandatory for all occupants.
Speed Limits
KR
Urban: 60 km/h, Rural: 80-100 km/h, Highways: 120 km/h.
PL
Urban: 50 km/h, Rural: 90 km/h, Highways: 140 km/h.
Remember
- • Always carry your international driving permit (IDP) and passport.
- • Familiarize yourself with road signage differences before driving.
- • Traffic cameras are widely used; adhere strictly to speed limits.
- • Note that toll roads are common in South Korea; ensure you have proper payment options.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Poland renting a car in South Korea

Where is the best place to book a car to get a good price and a wide choice?

It’s best to use the QEEQ platform, which lets you compare offers from many local suppliers in Korea in one place, providing good prices and a wide selection of vehicles and insurance packages.

How far in advance should I book a car?

It’s recommended to book at least 1–2 months in advance, especially in high season (spring, summer, autumn), to get a better choice of models and more favorable prices.

What type of car is best for driving in Korea?

For driving mainly in large cities (Seoul, Busan), a compact car is best, while for longer trips or when traveling with family, it’s better to choose a midsize sedan or an SUV.

Are manual transmission cars popular in Korea?

No, the vast majority (over 99%) of rental cars have automatic transmission, which makes driving in Korean city traffic easier.

What is CDW/LDW insurance?

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) or LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) is basic insurance that limits your financial liability for damage to the car, but it usually comes with a high deductible.

What is “Super CDW”, “Full Coverage” or “Zero Deductible”?

These are enhanced insurance packages that reduce your deductible to zero or a very low amount, although they often do not cover tires, windows and the underbody.

Is it worth buying full insurance (Super CDW)?

Yes, full insurance with zero deductible is a small extra cost compared to potential repair expenses and gives you peace of mind.

Can I add an additional driver? What documents are required?

Yes, for a small daily fee. The additional driver must be present at pickup and present a passport, a Polish driving licence and an IDP (International Driving Permit compliant with the 1949 Geneva Convention).

What about add-ons such as GPS or a child seat?

You can request them during the online booking. GPS is usually available in Korean or English, and child seats are available but should be reserved in advance.

Where are the car rental counters located at Incheon Airport (ICN)?

Rental counters are located in the arrivals hall of Terminals 1 and 2. After the formalities you will be directed to a dedicated parking area.

What does the pickup process look like?

At the rental counter, the staff will check your documents, block the security deposit on your credit card, you will sign the rental agreement and receive the car keys.

What should I check before leaving the rental parking lot?

Carefully inspect the car, take photos of any existing damage and make sure the staff have recorded it. Check the condition of the tires and lights.

What is the fuel policy?

The most common policy is “full to full” – you pick up the car with a full tank and return it with a full tank.

What does the car return process look like?

You return the car at the designated location. The staff check the condition of the vehicle, fuel level and mileage. If everything is in order, the return takes just a few minutes.

What happens if I am late returning the car?

There is usually about 30–60 minutes of tolerance. After that, an additional hourly or daily fee will be charged. If you expect to be late, contact the rental company.

Can I pick up a car in Seoul and return it on Jeju Island?

One-way rentals are possible between cities on the mainland but involve a high one-way fee. You cannot rent a car one way between the mainland and Jeju Island.

What if I return the car very dirty inside?

For excessive interior dirt the rental company may charge a cleaning fee. It’s advisable to keep the car reasonably clean.

Which side of the road do people drive on in South Korea?

In South Korea, as in Poland, traffic drives on the right-hand side, and the steering wheel is on the left.

What are the general speed limits?

In built-up areas: 30–60 km/h (30 km/h in school zones); outside built-up areas: 60–80 km/h; on motorways: 100–110 km/h.

What is Hi-Pass and should I use it?

Hi-Pass is an electronic toll collection system on highways. Most rental companies offer cars equipped with Hi-Pass, which saves time at toll gates.

Which navigation app is best in Korea? Does Google Maps work?

Google Maps has limited functions in Korea. It’s recommended to install Naver Map or Kakao Maps, which provide accurate navigation and an English interface.

How do I enter addresses in Korean navigation apps?

The easiest way is to enter the phone number of your destination (e.g. hotel, restaurant), as Korean apps are very good at finding locations by phone number.

How do I refuel? What should I watch out for?

Stations may be self-service or attended. Petrol (gasoline) is 휘발유 (Hwibalyu), diesel is 경유 (Gyeong-yu). Check the fuel type indicated on the fuel cap and don’t mix up the nozzles.

Is parking difficult in cities like Seoul or Busan?

Yes, parking in city centers is difficult and expensive. It’s best to use paid underground or multi-storey car parks and avoid illegal parking.

What are the road signs like? Will I understand them without knowing Korean?

Most signs are based on international pictograms, and key information on highways is provided in both Korean and English.

Are roads in Korea tolled?

Yes, major highways are tolled. The most convenient way is to use Hi-Pass. Costs are not high; for example, Seoul–Busan is about 20,000–25,000 KRW.

Do Korean driving habits differ from Polish ones?

Yes, Koreans tend to drive more dynamically and change lanes more often. It’s important to stay cautious and keep a safe distance.

What is usually included in the rental price shown on the booking site?

The price includes the vehicle rental, basic insurance (CDW with a high deductible), unlimited mileage and taxes.

What is a deposit (security deposit) and how is it paid?

The deposit is an amount blocked on your credit card as security and released after the car is returned without issues. It is not charged, only “frozen”.

What payment methods are accepted? Can I use a debit card?

A credit card in the main driver’s name is required for the deposit. Debit cards and cash are usually not accepted as security.

How do you pay tolls when using Hi-Pass?

The rental company calculates all your Hi-Pass tolls and presents the bill when you return the car. You pay the amount by card or it is deducted from the deposit.

Roughly how much does parking cost in cities?

In central Seoul, one hour of parking in a public car park costs from 3,000 to 6,000 KRW. Many venues offer free parking with ticket validation.

Are there any hidden fees I should watch out for?

Pay attention to fees for young/additional drivers, one-way rental, cleaning and missing fuel. Everything should be clearly stated in the rental agreement.

How are speeding or parking fines handled?

Fines are sent to the rental company, which charges your credit card for the fine amount plus an administrative fee.

Are there many speed cameras in Korea?

Yes, Korea has one of the highest densities of speed cameras in the world. It’s best to obey the rules and use apps that warn about cameras.

What is the rule for turning right at a red light?

In Korea, turning right on red is allowed, but only after coming to a complete stop and making sure you do not obstruct pedestrians.

Are there special lanes, for example for buses?

Yes, there are blue bus lanes that operate during specific hours. Pay attention to signs indicating when you are allowed to use them.

What are the rules on alcohol and driving?

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%. Even a small beer can exceed the limit. Penalties are very severe – never drive after drinking.

What exactly does the “palli-palli” culture mean on the road?

“Palli-palli” means fast, dynamic driving, frequent lane changes and impatience. Stay calm, drive defensively and keep a safe distance.

Is U-turning common? How do I do it?

Yes, U-turns are common and are made in specially marked places or at intersections when the green left arrow is lit.

What should I do in case of an accident or collision?

Stop the car in a safe place, switch on the hazard lights, check if anyone is injured (call 119), notify the police (112) and the rental company, and take photos of the damage.

What should I do if the car breaks down?

Do not attempt to repair it yourself. Call the rental company’s roadside assistance number shown in your rental agreement – they will provide roadside assistance or a replacement vehicle.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in South Korea for Travelers from Poland

Are you a traveler from Poland gearing up for an exciting journey in South Korea? If you're wondering about local driving arrangements:

Can Polish Citizens Drive in South Korea?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Polish Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Discover Popular Destinations in South Korea

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Traffic Rules Comparison: Poland vs. South Korea

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Are you a traveler from Poland gearing up for an exciting journey in South Korea?
If you're wondering about local driving arrangements: