Rise in taxi fare in Korea

Photo courtesy of http://news1.kr/articles/917837

Taxi fares are likely to face an increase in 2013.

The Ministry of Land, Transportation, and Maritime Affairs stated on December 3rd that "We review whether to raise taxi fares every 3 years, and it is the 3rd year now. Also, LPG gas prices have significantly increased so any increase in the taxi fare seems reasonable."

So far, 13 local governments, out of 16, have turned in a fare increase proposal.

On January 1st, 2013, Busan may increase its cab fare from 2,200 won to 2,800 won, and Daegu is considering the same.

Currently, the base fare in Seoul is 2,400 won, but the city is likely to consider to raise the fare.

There will be 116 red days in 2013 in Korea!

There will be 116 red days in 2013 in Korea!

January 1st will be a holiday, and March 1st (Independence Movement Day) is a Friday so it will be a 3 day weekend.

Some unfortunate holidays are still there. Lunar New Years will be on February 9th to 11th which will include a Saturday and a Sunday. Children's Day on May 5th will also be on Sunday.

Still, don't be disappointed as there are many more holidays coming up!

Buddha's Birthday is on a Friday (May 17th) so you will get to enjoy another 3 day weekend. Chuseok lies on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (September 18th to 20th) so if you include Saturday and Sunday, you will be on vacation for 5 days straight! If you decide to take 2 days off before or after Chuseok, you will get to enjoy 9 days of vacation.

Last but not least, Hangeul Day (October 9th) will be a red day for the first time in Korean history.