How to Get a Car Insurance as a Foreigner in South Korea

If you're planning to live or work in South Korea, having car insurance is a must if you're planning on driving. South Korea has a strict policy on car insurance, and driving without it can lead to fines or imprisonment. Car insurance in South Korea can be purchased by foreigners, but there are a few steps you need to follow to ensure you're getting the right insurance policy for your needs. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of buying car insurance in South Korea as a foreigner in detail. Step 1: Get a Korean Driver's License The first step in buying car insurance in South Korea is to get a Korean driver's license. To do this, you'll need to pass a written and practical driving test. The test is available in English, but you'll need to have a good understanding of Korean road signs and regulations. You can apply for a driver's license at any driver's license examination...

South Korea Transportation Cards

South Korea has an efficient and well-developed transportation system, and transportation cards are widely used as a convenient and cost-effective way to pay for public transportation. The two most commonly used transportation cards in South Korea are T-money and Cashbee.

T-money is a transportation card that was introduced in 2004 and is accepted on most public transportation systems in South Korea, including buses, subways, and some taxis. Cashbee, which was introduced in 2008, is also widely accepted on public transportation systems and can be used for other purposes, such as paying for parking and making purchases at convenience stores.

Here are some details about the T-money and Cashbee transportation cards in South Korea:


➤T-money

T-money cards


T-money cards are available for purchase at convenience stores, subway stations, and bus terminals.

The card costs KRW 4,000 (approximately USD 3.50) and can be recharged at any convenience store or online.

T-money can be used on most public transportation systems in South Korea, including buses, subways, and some taxis.

To use the card, simply tap it on the card reader as you enter and exit the transportation system. The fare will be automatically deducted from your balance.

The card can also be used to make small purchases at some convenience stores and vending machines.

T-money has a maximum balance limit of KRW 500,000 (approximately USD 430).



➤Cashbee

Cashbee cards


Cashbee cards are available for purchase at convenience stores and subway stations.

The card costs KRW 2,500 (approximately USD 2.20) and can be recharged at any convenience store or online.

Cashbee can be used on most public transportation systems in South Korea, including buses, subways, and some taxis. It can also be used for other purposes, such as paying for parking and making purchases at convenience stores.

To use the card, simply tap it on the card reader as you enter and exit the transportation system. The fare will be automatically deducted from your balance.

The card can also be used to make small purchases at some convenience stores and vending machines.

Cashbee has a maximum balance limit of KRW 100,000 (approximately USD 85).


Both T-money and Cashbee are convenient and cost-effective ways to pay for public transportation in South Korea. They can save you time and money, as they often offer discounts and fare reductions for frequent users. Additionally, using these transportation cards can help reduce the use of paper tickets and contribute to a more sustainable transportation system.