EV vs Petrol Car in Jeju: Which Should You Rent?
One of the biggest questions I received after my Jeju self-drive trip was whether it’s better to rent an electric vehicle (EV) or a petrol car. Having experienced driving around Jeju myself, I can honestly say that both have their own advantages. It really depends on your travel style.
Jeju is one of the easiest places in South Korea to drive. The roads are wide, traffic is relatively light outside the city areas, and attractions are spread across the island, making a rental car the most convenient way to explore.
Read more: EV vs Petrol Car in Jeju: Which Should You Rent?
TIPS: Recommend to rent your car in advance especially during peak periods. You can select the providers via KLOOK or rent from LOTTE Car Rental which may cost slightly higher.
Quote ” HAZELOFFKLOOK” to enjoy 5% discount when you book KLOOK activities.
Why Many Travellers Choose an EV
Jeju has one of the highest numbers of EV charging stations in Korea, so finding a charger is generally not difficult. Charging costs are also significantly lower than refuelling a petrol car, making it an attractive option for travellers looking to save on transport costs.
If you’re planning a relaxed itinerary with plenty of café stops or sightseeing breaks, charging the car can easily fit into your schedule. Many hotels, attractions and public car parks also offer charging facilities, so you can top up the battery while exploring nearby.
That said, driving an EV does require a little more planning. It’s worth checking your remaining battery level before heading to more remote parts of the island and familiarising yourself with nearby charging stations.
Why a Petrol Car May Be Easier
For first-time visitors to Jeju, a petrol car remains the simplest and most straightforward option.
Refuelling only takes a few minutes, petrol stations are widely available, and there’s no need to think about charging times. If your itinerary involves covering long distances in a single day or visiting multiple attractions from morning until night, a petrol car offers greater flexibility and convenience.
Although fuel costs are generally higher than charging an EV, some travellers may find the added convenience worthwhile, especially for shorter holidays.
So… Which One Would I Recommend?
If you’re comfortable with a little planning and want to enjoy lower running costs, an EV is a great choice in Jeju. The island is well prepared for electric vehicles, and the charging infrastructure makes the experience surprisingly hassle-free.
However, if this is your first self-drive holiday in Korea or you simply prefer the easiest option, renting a petrol car can offer greater peace of mind.
Personally, after experiencing both options, I would happily rent an EV again for a leisurely Jeju road trip. The charging process was much easier than I expected, and the savings on energy costs were a nice bonus. But if I had a packed itinerary with long driving days and limited time, I’d probably choose a petrol car instead.
At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong choice. It’s simply about choosing the option that best matches your itinerary, driving confidence and travel style.
If you’re still deciding, I’ve summarised the key differences, charging tips, fuel costs and practical considerations in my Instagram carousel to help make your decision a little easier before your Jeju adventure.
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