Seoul Taxies Line Up Along a Street



Rising Complaints about Taxi Fares

Foreign tourists visiting Seoul continually report problems with taxi fares, and the Seoul Metropolitan Government has responded by strengthening measures for greater fare transparency and passenger protection. As unfair charges were repeatedly identified, the city decided to strengthen management through multilingual guidance systems and easier reporting mechanisms.

The city said it received 487 reports from foreign visitors through the “QR-based Taxi Complaint System,” which was introduced in 2025. This system allows passengers to scan a QR code inside the taxi and report illegal acts or inconveniences via a short survey.

After reviewing the reports, the city found that many were related to overcharging. Eight cases were confirmed as violations, and the drivers received administrative penalties or fines. For instance, in December 2025, a taxi driver who took a foreign passenger from Gimpo Airport to Yeonhui-dong charged 56,000 won rather than the metered fare of 32,600 won. The problem was reported through the QR system and later led to a penalty.

Clearer Information for Passengers

Seoul officials believe that language barriers are one reason for these problems. If foreign passengers do not fully understand the fare system, it is harder for them to notice unfair charges or file complaints.

To address this issue, the city began improving methods for issuing taxi receipts. The city government added an English-language option to the T-money Mobility app. Surcharges are now clearly marked in both Korean and English. The final fare and pickup and drop-off times are also written in English. A service phone number is printed at the bottom so passengers can quickly ask for help if needed.

The city also standardized fare terms across different apps. Now simple terms such as “meter fare” and “toll fee” are on all platforms. In addition, the basic fare is shown separately from any highway tolls. This makes it easier for passengers to check if any extra charges were added.

Jangkwon Yeo, head of Seoul’s Transportation Office, said the city will actively inform foreigners about how to report problems and will take stronger action when violations are detected. He added that, as Seoul prepares for an increase in tourists, the city will work to create a trustworthy taxi environment.

Fair Fares, Stronger Trust

Seoul expects these measures to help rebuild trust among foreign tourists and strengthen the global image of its taxi services. As the number of global travelers grows, transparent transportation services have become a key indicator of a city’s competitiveness. Experts emphasize that multilingual guidance and clear fare systems go beyond convenience and function as genuine consumer protection. When fare rules are clear, misunderstandings and disputes decrease, allowing both drivers and passengers to interact in an atmosphere of trust.

There is also a growing call to view foreign passengers not as vulnerable outsiders but as equal users of public services. A brief explanation or a small act of consideration can significantly shape how a city is remembered. As tourism expands, service ethics become a form of competitive advantage. In the end, providing fair pricing and clear information are not optional but fundamental. Following these principles will help Seoul build a transport environment visitors can truly trust.

Reporter

Sua Lee

sualee7@g.seoultech.ac.kr

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