Don’t Get Ripped Off: 5 Things Every Foreigner Needs to Know Before Buying a Used Car in Korea

Buying a used car in Korea sounds simple — until you're face-to-face with an all-Korean contract, vague price justifications, and a salesman who swears you “don’t need to worry about that part.”

Here’s the truth: too many foreigners overpay or get misled. This guide helps you avoid that.

1. You Need an ARC — No Exceptions

No Alien Registration Card? You can’t legally register a car. Some dealers may “find a way,” but that usually means extra risk for you.

✅ Make sure your ARC is valid and up to date.

2. That ₩5M Car? It’ll Cost More

Expect to pay an additional ₩500,000 to ₩700,000 in:

• Acquisition tax
• Transfer fees
• New number plates
• Registration costs

Always ask for a final drive-away price — not just the car’s sticker.

3. You Can’t Skip Insurance

Korean law requires you to have insurance before the vehicle is transferred to your name. Without a Korean-speaking friend, this can be a nightmare.

🔗 We can help connect you to English-speaking agents — no shady fees, no headaches.

4. Listings Are Often… Incomplete

What you see online might not match what’s on the lot. Photos are outdated. Mileage may be rounded down. The car might not even be available anymore.

🔍 Ask for recent inspection reports and verify that the vehicle is still available before you visit.

5. Work With Someone Who Speaks Your Language

Buying a car is a major decision. You should feel understood — and protected.

James Lee, based in Suwon, has helped hundreds of expats find reliable cars without the pressure, confusion, or “surprise fees.”

✅ Speaks fluent English + Korean
✅ Walks you through paperwork, insurance, and inspection
✅ Only offers vehicles that pass a basic reliability check

🚘 Ready to Find the Right Car?

Reach out directly:
📱 010-9369-8380
💬 Kakao: jroc1221

No pressure. Just real help.