South KoreaWhat compensation applies for an accident while in a taxi?
In South Korea, taxi passengers injured in accidents may claim compensation under the Automobile Management Act and the Civil Act, with liability typically falling on the taxi operator or driver. Victims can seek damages for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
What the Law Says
South Korean law provides clear rules for compensation when a passenger is injured in a taxi accident. The primary statutes governing liability and compensation are the Automobile Management Act and the Civil Act.
Under the Automobile Management Act, taxi operators must carry mandatory automobile liability insurance. This insurance covers bodily injury and property damage caused by the operation of the vehicle, including to passengers.
The Civil Act governs general tort liability: if the taxi driver’s negligence causes injury, the driver and/or taxi company are liable for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, disability compensation, and non-pecuniary damages (e.g., pain and suffering).
Victims have three years from the date they become aware of both the injury and the perpetrator to file a civil claim for damages, per Article 766 of the Civil Act.
Statutory TextThe operator of an automobile shall be liable for damages arising from the use of the automobile, even if the operator is not at fault, unless the operator proves that due care was exercised and that the victim or a third party was solely at fault.
— Civil Act, s. 758 — Liability for Damage Caused by Use of Automobile
Statutory TextA person who causes injury to another by unlawful act shall compensate the injured person for losses incurred, including medical expenses, loss of earnings, and non-pecuniary damages.
— Civil Act, s. 750 — Compensation for Tortious Acts
Statutory TextThe statute of limitations for claims for damages arising from tortious acts is three years from the time the injured party becomes aware of the injury and the identity of the perpetrator.
— Civil Act, s. 766 — Limitation Period for Tort Claims
What to Do
Seek immediate medical attention and retain all treatment records.
Report the accident to the taxi company and police within 14 days.
File a claim with the taxi’s mandatory automobile liability insurer.
If settlement fails, file a civil lawsuit within 3 years of knowing the injury and responsible party.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.