Driving during your trip to South Korea can be an amazing way to explore cities like Seoul, Busan, and Pyeongtaek-si at your own pace. But if it’s your first time gas filling in Korea, gas stations, Korean fuel names, and self-service payment machines can be confusing.
This how-to guide shows you exactly how to:
- Understand Korean gas types (gasoline, diesel, LPG)
- Find a gas station using map apps
- Use self-service and full-service pumps
- Pay for fuel with card or cash (and how the Korean “가득 / 만땅 – fill up” process works)
- Avoid common mistakes when driving in Korea as a traveler
Overview of Gas Filling in Korea
The basic idea of gas filling in Korea is similar to many other countries: you drive into a station, choose your fuel, pay, and pump. The details, however, can look a bit different, especially if you don’t read Korean yet.
Key points at a glance
- Fuel names are written in Korean: 휘발유 (gasoline), 경유 (diesel), LPG (LPG gas).
- You’ll find both full-service and self-service stations.
- Payment is usually by card, but cash is still accepted.
- Prices are per liter and change frequently, so it’s smart to check them before a long drive.
- Driving is on the right side of the road, with the driver sitting on the left.
If you’re staying in areas like Pyeongtaek-si, you’ll find plenty of gas stations along main roads, around large shopping areas, and near expressways, so you usually won’t have to drive far with a low tank.
Types of Gas in Korea & How to Choose the Right One
Choosing the correct gas type is the most important part of gas filling in Korea. Using the wrong fuel can damage your rental car, so double-check before you pump.
Main gas types
1. Gasoline (휘발유 – hwibal-yu)
- Most common fuel for rental cars and private vehicles.
- Written as 휘발유 on signs and pumps. (Yellow)
- Sometimes you’ll see 고급 휘발유 – premium gasoline.
2. Diesel (경유 – gyeong-yu)
- Used for some SUVs, vans, and larger vehicles.
- Written as 경유 on the pump. (Black, Green, or Blue)
3. LPG (LPG / LP가스)
- Often used by taxis and some special vehicles.
- LPG stations may look different and are sometimes separate from regular gas stations.
- Most standard rental cars for tourists are not LPG, so only use LPG if you are absolutely sure.
How to know which fuel your car uses
- Check the fuel cap door: It often says “Unleaded gasoline only,” “Diesel,” or shows 휘발유 / 경유.
- Check your rental agreement: The fuel type is often marked somewhere in the contract or vehicle info.
- Ask the rental staff: Before leaving the lot, ask “Gasoline or diesel?” and write it down or take a photo.
- Take a photo of the fuel cap: This helps you compare the Korean words later at the pump.
Never guess your fuel type. If you’re not sure, ask the rental company, hotel staff, or a local before you fill up.
How to Find a Gas Station in Korea
The Korean word for gas station is 주유소 (ju-yu-so). You’ll see this word on big signs near the road, often combined with brand names like SK, GS, S-OIL, or Hyundai Oilbank.
Using map & navigation apps
For travelers, the easiest way to find gas stations is through map apps. Here are some reliable options:
- Naver Map – Very detailed, widely used by locals.
- Kakao Map – Another excellent Korean map app.
- Google Maps – Helpful for searching, though driving navigation can be limited in Korea, so pairing it with Naver or Kakao Map is smart.
Quick buttons to get the apps:
Checking gas price before you go
Gas prices in Korea change often, so it’s smart to check before a long drive. One very useful service is the official fuel price platform “Opinet” by the Korea National Oil Corporation.
Suggested external links:
- Opinet (official fuel price info – Korean)
- Search “Korea Tourism Organization driving in Korea” for official English driving guides.
With apps like Opinet, you can:
- See nearby gas stations and their prices.
- Compare which station is cheapest around your hotel or along your route.
- Filter stations by fuel type and region (e.g., Pyeongtaek-si).
Self-Service vs. Full-Service Gas Stations
When gas filling in Korea, you’ll encounter two main types of stations:
- Full-service – Staff does the pumping and often handles payment.
- Self-service (셀프) – You operate the machine and pump yourself.
How to tell which type it is
- Look for the word “셀프” on big signs – this means self-service.
- If there is no “셀프” sign and you see staff walking around, it’s usually full-service.
Step-by-Step: Full-Service Gas Station
Full-service stations are the easiest option for travelers who are new to gas filling in Korea. An attendant will handle most of the process for you.
What to do at a full-service station
-
Pull in and stop by a pump.
Park close enough so the hose reaches your fuel cap. Turn off the engine and set the parking brake. -
Tell the attendant your fuel type and amount.
Some useful Korean phrases:- 휘발유 가득 주세요. – Fill up with gasoline.
- 휘발유 5만 원어치 주세요. – 50,000 won of gasoline, please.
- 경유 가득 주세요. – Fill up with diesel.
-
Let the staff pump the gas.
You can stay in the car or step out. They may also quickly clean the windshield. -
Pay when prompted.
The attendant may bring a card reader to your window, or ask you to step to a small kiosk. You can usually pay with card or cash. -
Take your receipt.
If you need to track expenses, ask: 영수증 주세요. – “Please give me a receipt.”
No tipping is required at Korean gas stations.
Step-by-Step: Self-Service Gas Station (Including “가득 / 만땅 – Fill Up”)
Self-service stations are often cheaper and very common, especially around big cities and highways. The process is similar to other countries, but the payment flow and “fill up” option can work a bit differently.
1. Park and prepare
- Align your car so the fuel cap is on the same side as the pump.
- Turn off the engine and set the parking brake.
- Check the pump label to make sure it says your fuel type: 휘발유 (gasoline) or 경유 (diesel).
2. Choose language (if available)
Many newer self-service machines have an English button (“ENG” or “English”). If you see it, tap it first.
If there is no English option, you can still manage by recognizing a few key words:
- 휘발유 – Gasoline
- 경유 – Diesel
- 금액 – Amount of money
- 리터 – Liters
- 가득 / 만땅 – Fill up (until the tank is full)
3. Selecting “가득 / 만땅 – Fill Up” and why payment feels different
At many self-service gas stations in Korea, you can choose:
- A fixed amount of money (금액)
- A fixed number of liters (리터)
- 가득 / 만땅 – a full tank, “fill it all the way up”
The words 가득 and 만땅 both mean “fill up until full.” Here’s how the process usually works and how it can be a little different from some other countries:
- You select 가득 or 만땅 on the screen for your fuel type.
- The machine will typically ask you to insert or tap your card before pumping. It may temporarily place a higher “maximum” amount on hold (like a pre-authorization). It's usually ₩150,000
- After approval, you pump the gas until the tank is full and the nozzle automatically stops.
- When you finish and return the nozzle, the machine calculates the exact amount you used and only charges that amount to your card.
- Any unused portion of the pre-authorized amount is automatically released (you don’t pay it).
So, even if the screen looks like it’s allowing up to a certain high number, don’t worry – with 가득 / 만땅, you only pay for the fuel you actually pump into the tank.
4. Choosing a specific amount instead of full
If you prefer more control, you can choose:
- 금액 – e.g., 50,000 won (₩50,000)
- 리터 – e.g., 30 liters
You’ll then:
- Select the fuel type (휘발유 or 경유).
- Enter the amount (₩ or liters) on the keypad or touchscreen.
- Insert or tap your card for payment.
5. Pumping the gas
- Put on the disposable plastic gloves if provided.
- Pick up the correct fuel nozzle (check the label again).
- Insert the nozzle fully into the fuel opening.
- Pull the handle to start fueling. Some pumps let you lock the handle so you can relax your hand.
- Watch the screen as the liters and won increase.
- When it's done, the nozzle will automatically stop (especially for 가득 / 만땅 or fixed amount).
- Return the nozzle to its holder.
6. Final payment confirmation and receipt
After you return the nozzle:
- The machine finalizes the actual amount charged to your card.
- A receipt may print automatically, or you may need to tap a “영수증” (receipt) button.
Always wait a few seconds until the screen shows the transaction is complete and the printed amount matches what you expect.
If your foreign card doesn’t work at the machine, look for a small office or staff member; they may be able to process it at a different terminal or you can pay with cash.
How to Pay for Gas in Korea (Card, Cash, Apps)
Payment methods in Korea are modern and flexible, but as a traveler you should know what to expect.
1. Paying by card
- Most locals use credit or debit cards.
- Many international credit cards work, but not all. Sometimes foreign cards fail at certain stations.
- Always carry at least one backup card if possible.
At self-service pumps, you usually:
- Insert or tap your card at the machine.
- Choose your fuel type and amount (or 가득 / 만땅).
- Wait for approval, then pump.
2. Paying with cash
Cash is a reliable backup in case your card doesn’t work.
- At full-service stations, tell the staff you want to pay by cash and how much.
- At self-service stations, some machines accept cash directly, but others require you to pay inside at a kiosk or office.
A useful phrase is: 현금 돼요? – “Can I pay with cash?”
3. Mobile and app payments
Locals often use mobile payments such as Samsung Pay, KakaoPay, or NaverPay. As a short-term traveler, these may not be necessary unless you have a Korean bank account.
Tips & Safety Advice for Travelers Driving in Korea
- Always turn off the engine before you start fueling.
- Do not smoke near the pumps.
- Use the plastic gloves to avoid getting fuel on your hands.
- Double-check the fuel type each time, especially at a new station.
- Don’t wait until the tank is almost empty before searching for a station – start looking once you are below half.
Around cities like Pyeongtaek-si or Seoul, you’ll also see big highway service areas (rest stops) with gas stations, restrooms, and food courts. They are convenient, though sometimes slightly more expensive than small neighborhood stations.
Common Mistakes When Gas Filling in Korea (and How to Avoid Them)
1. Using the wrong fuel type
Always verify whether your car uses 휘발유 (gasoline) or 경유 (diesel) before you start. Check the fuel cap, your rental paperwork, and ask staff if necessary.
2. Confusing LPG stations with regular stations
If you see signs that say LPG 충전소 and your car is not LPG, skip those stations and look for 주유소 instead.
3. Getting stuck at a Korean-only self-service machine
If there’s no English option, use a translation app on your phone to scan the screen. Remember the key words: 휘발유, 경유, 금액, 리터, 가득 / 만땅.
4. Card payment issues
Since not all foreign cards work everywhere, carry some cash and a second card. If the pump rejects your card, try another card, another machine, or a different station nearby.
5. Forgetting to close the fuel cap
Before driving off, check:
- Is the nozzle back on the pump?
- Is the fuel cap closed properly?
- Do you have your card and receipt?
FAQ: Gas Filling in Korea for Travelers
Is gas filling in Korea very different from my home country?
The basic steps are similar, but the Korean language screens and fuel names can be new. Once you’ve done it once or twice, it feels straightforward.
Are gas stations in Korea open 24 hours?
Many stations in big cities and along highways are open 24/7, but smaller or local stations may close at night. Check the opening hours in your map app before going late in the evening.
Can I use my foreign credit card at gas stations?
Often yes, but not always. Some travelers find that certain stations or machines don’t accept their foreign cards, so always have a backup card or cash.
Is a full-service station more expensive than a self-service station?
In many cases, self-service (셀프) stations have slightly lower prices because there is less labor. But the difference can be small, so choose what feels most comfortable and convenient for you.
Do I need to tip gas station staff in Korea?
No. Tipping is not expected at gas stations in Korea. The amount on the pump or receipt is all you need to pay.
Where can I get official information about driving in Korea?
For road rules, safety information, and driving tips, check the Korea Tourism Organization’s official website. For fuel prices and station details, look up Opinet (the official fuel information service).
Conclusion: Your Quick Checklist for Gas Filling in Korea
Gas filling in Korea may look intimidating at first, but with a few key words and steps in mind, it becomes routine very quickly. Here’s a simple checklist you can save on your phone:
Before you drive
- Confirm your car’s fuel type (휘발유 or 경유).
- Install Naver Map or Kakao Map and a translation app.
- Optionally install a fuel price app like Opinet.
- Keep at least one backup card and some cash.
At the station
- Check whether it’s full-service or self-service (셀프).
- Double-check the fuel label on the pump.
- If using self-service, decide whether to choose a fixed amount or 가득 / 만땅 to fill up.
- Follow the on-screen steps, insert/tap your card, and pump carefully.
- Wait for the payment to finalize and take your receipt.
With this guide, you’re ready to handle gas filling in Korea confidently, whether you’re exploring Pyeongtaek-si, road-tripping across the country, or just driving from the airport to your hotel.
Call-to-Action: Bookmark this guide on your phone, share it with friends who plan on driving in Korea, and install your map and translation apps before you pick up your rental car. Safe travels and 즐거운 드라이브 되세요 – enjoy your drive!
