Buying a Car in Korea as a Foreigner: New, Used and Registration

Can foreigners buy a car in Korea?

Yes. A foreign resident holding an Alien Registration Card (ARC) can buy and register a car in their own name, new or used, on the same basis as a Korean resident. A tourist or short-stay visitor without an ARC generally cannot register a car in their name.

What you need at the counter:

• Alien Registration Card and passport
• A Korean address (the registered address on your ARC)
• Mandatory car insurance in your name
• For a used car, the seller’s documents and the transfer of registration

A Korean phone number is also practically necessary for the dealer, insurer and registration-office communication.

New vs used

New cars are bought through the manufacturer’s dealerships or online, with financing available through the manufacturers’ finance arms or banks. Delivery and registration are usually handled by the dealer.

Used cars are the more common route for residents on a shorter timeline. The main channels:

• Certified used-car dealers — inspected, warranty-backed stock from the large chains
• Individual private sales — cheaper but with no dealer warranty, so a vehicle inspection report matters
• Online marketplaces — most large platforms require a Korean phone number for the account

For a used car, check the vehicle inspection report and confirm the previous registration is clear before paying. Registration transfer is done at the local registration office or through the dealer.

Insurance and registration

Insurance comes before registration. You cannot register a car without the mandatory automotive insurance in place, so the practical order is: buy the car → arrange insurance → register → get the plates.

Registration is done at the motor vehicle registration office (jadongcha deungnok samuso, 자동차등록사무소) covering your address, in person or through a dealer. What you submit:

• Application and your ARC/passport
• Proof of insurance
• The sale invoice and, for used cars, the seller’s documents and registration certificate

Fees for registration and plates apply, and the process usually takes a day. The car is then registered to your ARC number, and your Korean licence or International Driving Permit covers the driving side — see our car insurance guide and driving licence guides for those.

Practical notes

• Budget for insurance first — premiums are priced per driver and vary by insurer, so sort insurance before committing to a car.
• Financing — car loans for foreigners are possible but the terms depend on visa and income proof; dealers and banks will ask for employment and residence documents.
• Keep the registration documents — the registration certificate is needed for insurance, annual inspections and any resale.
• Annual inspections — most cars require periodic safety inspections; keep the schedule current to avoid penalties.
• If you leave Korea — sell the car and complete the transfer before you go; an unregistered car in your name can cause problems later.

Note — registration procedures, required documents and fees change. Confirm the current details with the registration office and the insurer before buying.