Where to Rent a Bike in Seoul?

Seoul, the lively hub of South Korea, buzzes with energy, culture, and history. While the city’s public transportation system efficiently connects its varied neighborhoods, nothing quite compares to the experience of exploring on two wheels. If you’re a biking enthusiast unsure of where to rent a bike in Seoul, worry not—we’ve got you covered. Renting a bike in Seoul is straightforward and convenient and offers an excellent way to discover the city or the picturesque Hangang riverside. Here’s a guide on how to rent a bike in Seoul.

Short term bike rental

Seoul Public Bike (Ttareungyi 따릉이)

• Website: www.bikeseoul.com
• Price: Hourly ticket: 1 hour 1,000 won ($0.74) | 2 hours 2,000 won ($1.5) | All day pass: 24 hours 5,000 won ($3.7)

For quick and convenient bike rentals on the go, Seoul Public Bike, also known as Ttareungyi 따릉이, is the perfect option. Seoul introduced this bike-sharing system in 2015 to encourage healthier and more eco-friendly travel for its residents. You can find rental stations all over Seoul, such as subway entrances/exits, bus stops, residential complexes, public offices, schools, and banks, making it perfect for short trips around the city. Plus, you can easily locate nearby stations and check bike availability using the map on the website or app.

In Seoul’s bike rental system, there are two main types of bikes: LCD and QR. LCD bikes are the originals, while QR bikes were added in 2020 for easier renting and returning. LCD bikes are usually rented through the website, while QR bikes can be rented using a smartphone and QR code. 

How to rent a Seoul bike through their website (LCD bike)

• Step 1: Visit the Seoul Bike website and log in. Then, select your preferred language option from the available options.
• Step 2: Browse the site to find the nearest rental station and check if bikes are available. The blue point on the maps indicates the number of bikes available at each site.
• Step 3: To purchase a rental, click on the “Buy Ticket” button at the top right corner of the page. Follow the prompts to select your preferred payment method and complete the transaction. Upon successful payment, you will receive an 8-digit registration number.
• Step 4: Head to the designated bike station. Press the power button on the bike’s screen and follow the instructions to input the first four digits of your registration number, followed by the last four digits.
• Step 5: Unlock the bike by releasing the lock on the side and pulling it out. You’re now ready to start your ride!

Note: Stop at your chosen spot to secure the bike during your ride. Use the cable lock on the left side to fasten it around a nearby fixture or the bike wheel. Connect the lock to the slot on the right side. When you’re ready to unlock the bike, press the home button and enter your 8-digit number again.

How to rent a Seoul bike through Seoul Bike app (QR bike)

• Step 1: Open the Seoul Bike (따릉이) mobile app and ensure that Location and Bluetooth are enabled. You can download the app for your IOS device (here) and Android device (here).
• Step 2: Select “Foreigner” if you only have a foreign card, or choose “Non-member” (비회원) if you reside in Korea and have a Korean bank account, KakaoPay, Payco, or ZeroPay available.
• Step 3: Click on “Purchase Pass” to proceed.
• Step 4: Choose the type of rental pass you desire, similar to the LCD description.
• Step 5: Opt for “Credit Card” as the payment method, input a valid email address, and agree to all conditions.
• Step 6: Return to the app and press the “Rent” button once you purchase your bike pass.
• Step 7: Scan the QR code on the device beneath the bike’s rear wheel seat. Ensure that your Location and Bluetooth are still active.
• Step 8: Wait for a few seconds until the device unlocks, usually accompanied by a distinct “clack” sound and an audio message confirming that the bike is unlocked and ready for use.

Note: To lock the bike while riding, stop at your chosen spot. Pull down the sliding lock beneath the seat on the rear wheel. A message will confirm the temporary lock in the app. To unlock later, press “Temporary unlock” in the app

How To Return Seoul Bike

LCD bike

• Step 1: Return the bike to the rack and ensure the lock is secured properly.
• Step 2: If no racks are open, use the supplementary lock (white lock) to attach your bike to another docked bike.

Note: LCD bikes can only be returned at green rental stations on the map.

QR bike

• Step 1: Place the bike in any available docking station at a rental station marked on the map (green or yellow).
• Step 2: Activate the sliding lock on the device attached to the bike’s rear wheel. 
• Step 3: Wait for an audio confirmation and an app message confirming a successful return.

Rental kiosks along Hangang (Han River)

• Open hours: 9:00 – 22:00 vary depending on the kiosk
• Price: 3,000 won ($2.2) per hour for a normal bike | 6,000 won ($4.4) per hour for tandem

If you’re looking for a scenic ride along the Han River, look no further than the rental kiosks dotted along its banks. Rent a bike and enjoy a leisurely ride while taking in stunning views of Seoul’s skyline and the tranquil waters of the Han River. With options for solo riders, couples, or families, these rental kiosks cater to everyone looking to rent a bike in Seoul.

How to rent a bike along the Han River

• Step 1: At the counter, choose the bike type, quantity, and rental duration. (Bring your ID or passport.)
• Step 2: Provide your mobile phone number for rental registration and tracking.
• Step 3: Pay the rental fee using cash, credit card, or debit card; the fee will be charged to your mobile account.
• Step 4: Present rental certificate to staff for bike collection after fee confirmation.
• Step 5: Ride responsibly: adhere to traffic rules, wear a helmet, and avoid alcohol/drugs.
• Step 6: Return the bike to the same rental kiosk, submitting the rental certificate to staff.
• Step 7: Pay any additional charges for exceeding rental time or bike damages to staff.

Rental kiosk locations in Hangang Park, Seoul

There are 13 bicycle rental shops in Hangang Park in total.

• Gwangnaru: 483-8 Cheonho-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul (near the bicycle safety training center) 
• Jamsil: 1-1 Jamsil-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul (in front of Jamsil Tourist Ferry Terminal) 
• Jamwon: 386 Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (under the south end of Hannam Bridge) 
• Banpo: 122-2 Jamwon-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul (in front of Banpo intersection) 
• Yeouido 1 (Wonhyo Bridge): 85 Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (in front of Yeouido traffic circle, south end of Wonhyo Bridge)
• Yeouido 2 (Yeouinaru): 84-4, Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (under Exit 2 of Yeouinaru Station) 
• Yeouido 3 (Mapo Bridge): 84-9, Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (in front of Mulbit Square, south end of Mapo Bridge) 
• Yanghwa: 237 Nodeul-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (parking lot in front of tourist ferry terminal) 
• Gangseo: 59 Banghwa-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul (south end of Banghwa Bridge)
• Ttukseom: 110-1 Jayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (under the north end of Cheongdam Bridge) 
• Ichon: 62 Ichon-ro 72-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (next to the turtle ship ferry) 
• Mangwon: 294-8 Mangwon-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul (under the north end of Seongsan Bridge) 
• Nanji: 482-154 Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Long term bike rental

Bike Nara (자전거나라)

• Address: 1F, 19, Mapo-daero, Mapo-gu, Seoul
• Open hours: 10:00 – 19:00 daily | Closed: [Feb-Oct] Tuesday / [Nov-Jan] Monday, Tuesday
• Price range: 35,000 won ($25.8) to 50,000 won ($37) per day
• Website: bikenara.modoo.at

Bike Nara is a popular bike rental shop in Korea that offers various bikes for various purposes. Whether you need a bike for a day trip or a longer cross-country journey, Bike Nara has options to suit your needs. As a Giant retail store, they provide high-quality bikes at affordable prices, with daily rates ranging from 35,000 won ($25.8) to 50,000 won ($37). Additionally, Bike Nara offers convenient one-week tour packages, including essential accessories such as a toolkit, helmet, lock, and rear rack. Optional extras like panniers and GPS are also available. Plus, you can even leave your luggage at their store for free.

Bike Rental Korea

• Address: 21 Daeheung-ro 2-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
• Open hours: 9:00 – 19:00 daily
• Contact: +82 50-70177-5687
• Price: From 25 USD per day
• Website: bikerentalkorea.kr

Bike Rental Korea is a private company that rents bikes by the hour or day. They also offer guided tours and bike rentals for multiple days. This is a good option if you want a nicer bike or plan a longer ride. Their shop proudly holds certification from the Seoul Metropolitan Government system, and all their bike mechanics are certified for maintenance.

You can select your desired bike type on their website and pay conveniently via PayPal. Located in Mapo District, their store is conveniently close to the Han River, ensuring easy bike pickup. Even if you’re not nearby, they offer a convenient shipping service for a fee to deliver the bike to your door. Returning the bike is just as simple—there’s no need to return to the shop. You can return it anywhere you choose, with guidance from their staff upon contacting them. However, please be aware that this service incurs an additional fee.

Book a Bike Tour in Seoul

In addition to renting a bike, why not join a guided bike tour and explore Seoul’s hidden gems with a knowledgeable local guide? Bike tours offer a fun and informative way to experience the city’s culture, history, and culinary delights. Whether pedaling through historic neighborhoods or cruising along scenic bike paths, a bike tour is a fantastic way to rent a bike in Seoul and see the city from a new perspective. You can explore tours on GetYourGuide.com or Viator.com.

In conclusion, renting a bike in Seoul opens up a world of possibilities for exploration and adventure. Whether you’re embarking on a short-term sightseeing excursion or committing to a long-term journey of discovery, Seoul’s diverse range of bike rental options ensures that you can experience the city on your terms. So grab a bike, hit the streets, and let the adventure begin!

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