Korea Fuel Tax Cut 2026: Key Facts at a Glance
From March 27 to May 31, 2026, the Korean government is cutting fuel taxes. Foreign residents benefit equally.
The gasoline fuel tax cut rate was expanded from 7% to 15%, saving about 65 won per liter. The diesel fuel tax cut rate was expanded from 10% to 25%, saving about 87 won per liter.
Gas stations automatically apply the discounted price. No separate application is needed.
Period: March 27 to May 31, 2026 (approx. 2 months)
Gasoline: approx. 65 won/liter cheaper (tax cut rate 7% → 15%)
Diesel: approx. 87 won/liter cheaper (tax rate 10% → 25%)
Who benefits: All drivers fueling in Korea, including foreigners
Why Now? Middle East Crisis and Surging Oil Prices
Crude oil prices surged from $600 to over $1,100 per barrel due to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route in the Middle East.
When crude oil prices rise, gas station prices follow. The Korean government cut fuel taxes quickly to ease the burden on daily living costs.
This measure directly benefits drivers. It also helps stabilize delivery costs and consumer prices overall.
The fuel tax cut lasts until May 31, 2026. What happens after depends on the government's decision.
Calculate Your Monthly Fuel Savings by Driver Type
Move the sliders to calculate your monthly savings. Select gasoline or diesel and enter your monthly fuel usage.
Estimated Monthly Savings
E-9 Visa Cargo and Logistics Workers: How to Get Extra Subsidies
E-9 visa holders working in cargo or logistics get double benefits. In addition to the 87 won/liter diesel discount, the fuel price-linked subsidy for cargo trucks has increased from 50% to 70%. Filling 500 liters of diesel per month saves 43,500 won.
Diesel discount: 87 won/liter automatically saved
Fuel subsidy rate: increased from 50% to 70%
Based on 500L/month: at least 43,500 won saved
Step 1: Check with your employer
The fuel subsidy for cargo trucks is applied by the vehicle owner (employer). First, ask your employer whether they have applied for the 70% subsidy increase.
Step 2: Contact your local district office
If your employer has not yet applied, contact the Transportation Division of your local district office. Say 'I want to inquire about the cargo truck diesel price-linked subsidy application.'
Step 3: Prepare required documents
Prepare the vehicle registration, freight transport worker license, and alien registration card. Documents in the employer's name may also be required.
Step 4: Verify on your pay stub
Once the subsidy is applied correctly, you will see changes on your pay stub or fuel cost settlement. Be sure to check your next pay stub.
Save Even More on Fuel: Using the Opinet App and Fuel Discount Cards
On top of the fuel tax cut, using fuel apps and discount cards lets you save even more.
Find the cheapest gas station with the Opinet app
Opinet is the official app run by the Korea National Oil Corporation. It shows the cheapest gas stations near you in real time. Search 'Opinet' in the app store and download it for free.
Use a fuel discount card
Major gas station brands like GS Caltex, SK Energy, and S-OIL have their own discount cards. You can get an extra 50-100 won discount per liter. Foreigners can apply too (alien registration card required).
Use budget gas stations
Budget gas stations (알뜰주유소) are 50-150 won cheaper per liter than regular stations. Filter by '알뜰주유소' in the Opinet app to find them.
Choose the right time to refuel
Gas station prices change daily. Using the Opinet app to refuel when prices are low helps you save more.
Foreign Self-Employed: How to Apply for Emergency Business Stabilization Funds
Small business owners whose costs have risen due to surging oil prices can apply for government emergency business stabilization funds of up to 70 million won.
Maximum support amount: 70 million won
Inquiry hotline: 1357 (Korea Federation of SMEs)
Online application: www.sbiz.or.kr
Step 1: Check eligibility
Foreign self-employed individuals with a business registration certificate can apply. A visa status that allows work activity (such as F-2, F-5, F-6) is required.
Step 2: Contact the Korea Federation of SMEs
Call the Korea Federation of SMEs at 1357. Say you want to apply for 'emergency business stabilization funds.' Foreign language interpretation services are available.
Step 3: Apply online
Apply online at the Small Business Portal (www.sbiz.or.kr). Prepare your alien registration card, business registration certificate, and sales records for the past 3 months.
Step 4: Visit your nearest center
You can also visit your nearest Small Business Support Center in person. Search 'Small Business Support Center' on the Naver or Kakao Map app to find the closest one.