Car Rental in Jeju

Where to drive

• Circle the entire island on Coastal Road 1132, a scenic drive offering breathtaking ocean views and access to numerous beaches and cafes. This loop can take a full day, covering approximately 180 km.
• Drive to Hallasan National Park for hiking trails up South Korea's highest mountain. The Seongpanak or Gwaneumsa trails are popular, and the drive from Jeju City to the park entrance is about 30-40 minutes (≈20-25 km).
• Explore the eastern coast, visiting Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) and the nearby Seopjikoji cliff. This route from Jeju City is about 1.5 hours (≈50 km) one way.
• Discover the southern wonders including Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, Jungmun Saekdal Beach, and the Alive Museum in Seogwipo. From Jeju City, this drive is approximately 1 hour (≈40 km).
• Journey to the western side for Aewol Cafe Street, Hyeopjae Beach, and Hallim Park, offering a mix of trendy spots and natural beauty. This trip from Jeju City takes about 40-50 minutes (≈30 km).

What documents you need

To rent a car in South Korea, foreign drivers need their original passport, a valid national driver's license from their home country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP must be issued in the same country as your national license. Drivers must typically be at least 21 years old and have held their license for at least one year.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices on Jeju Island vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from as low as ≈$20-$30 per day during the off-peak season, while SUVs and premium vehicles might range from ≈$50 to over ≈$100 daily. Summer months and major holidays typically see a surge in prices, with rates potentially doubling.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In South Korea, traffic drives on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 30-50 km/h in urban areas, 60-80 km/h on rural roads, and 100-110 km/h on expressways. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%. Headlights should be used at night and in poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 6 years old.

Parking

Parking in Jeju City and other popular tourist areas can be a mix of paid and free options. Many attractions offer dedicated parking lots, some with a small fee (typically a few thousand won). Street parking is often metered or subject to time limits. Hotels and guesthouses usually provide free parking for guests. Always look for clear signage.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Jeju Island, especially along main roads and near towns. Prices are comparable to mainland South Korea, with gasoline and diesel available. Most stations accept major credit cards, but having some Korean Won cash is advisable for smaller, more remote stations. Exact prices fluctuate but expect around ≈1,600-1,800 KRW per liter for gasoline.

Which car to choose

For most visitors to Jeju, a compact or economy car is perfectly sufficient for navigating the island's well-maintained roads. If you plan on exploring more rugged or unpaved areas, or if you are traveling with more luggage or passengers, a mid-size SUV could offer more comfort and capability. Automatic transmission is standard for most rental fleets.

Frequently asked questions