Can foreigners rent cars in Korea?

Foreigners can absolutely rent cars in Korea but you'll need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in your home country before arrival, plus your original home country license, your passport, and a credit card in your name. An IDP is only valid for 1 year, so after that you'll need to convert to a Korean license at the local Driver's License Examination Office, which is straightforward with most countries having reciprocal agreements.

For traditional rentals, Lotte Rent-a-Car, SK Rent-a-Car, and AJ Rent-a-Car have English booking sites and counters at all major airports and train stations, with daily rates starting around 50,000 won for compact cars. For short trips and city use, car-sharing apps SoCar (쏘카) and GreenCar (그린카) are extremely convenient. Both apps have English versions, and you sign up by uploading photos of your IDP, home license, and ARC, which they verify within 24 hours. Cars are parked in dedicated spots all over the city, you reserve and unlock through the app, and rates start at 4,800 won/hour plus a per-km charge of about 180 won. Insurance is included but the deductible can be high, so consider the premium coverage option. Highway tolls are auto-charged through the Hi-Pass system in the rental, and gas should be returned at the same level you received it.