Unlock Smooth Travel: Guide to Getting a Hi-Pass

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Navigating South Korea’s extensive highway network has been one of the more exciting parts of my travels here. With over 4,000 kilometers of highways and numerous toll roads, exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities becomes surprisingly easy. I’ve found that getting around is a breeze, especially when you tap into the local infrastructure. One of my best discoveries was the Hi-Pass Card, a simple tool that makes driving across South Korea smooth and stress-free.

Table of Contents

• What is a Hi-Pass
• How do I Get a Hi-Pass in Daegu
• How Much Does the Hi-Pass Card Cost?
• How to Use the Hi-Pass Card
• Check Your Balance
• Like it? Pin it!
• Address

What is a Hi-Pass Card

One of the best tools I’ve discovered for hassle-free highway travel in South Korea is the Hi-Pass system. This electronic toll collection system is a lifesaver, allowing you to breeze through toll booths without stopping to fumble for cash. The convenience it offers, especially during peak hours, is incredible. It lets you make the most of your time on the road, freeing you up to enjoy the journey rather than worrying about delays.

To get started with the Hi-Pass system, you’ll need to pick up an electronic toll collection device. I found mine at a local convenience store, but they’re also available at rental car companies and designated service centers. Once you have the device, it’s easy to set up—just attach it to your windshield and link it to your payment method. After that, it’s smooth sailing. As you approach a toll booth, the Hi-Pass device automatically deducts the toll from your account, letting you maintain your speed and avoid the hassle of stopping to pay. It’s one of those small conveniences that makes a big difference when you’re exploring South Korea.

How do I Get a Hi-Pass in Daegu

For those in the military community here in Daegu, getting a Hi-Pass card couldn’t be easier. The most convenient option is to stop by the Camp Henry Supply Service Center, located near the Express and Navy Federal Credit Union. This makes it incredibly simple to pick up a Hi-Pass card without having to venture far from the base.

If you’re stationed at Camp Humphreys, you’re in luck as well. Just head over to the Camp Humphreys Hi-Pass office in the Main PX (building 5700). Having these resources right on base is a huge benefit. It means you can get set up with a Hi-Pass card quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your road trips across South Korea are as smooth and enjoyable as possible. With easy access to the Hi-Pass card at these locations, there’s no reason not to take advantage of this convenient tool.

I am a contributor to KoreabyMe, an online magazine for expats living abroad in South Korea. Check it out here.

How Much Does the Hi-Pass Card Cost?

To get started with the Hi-Pass system, you’ll need to purchase both a Hi-Pass card and the device that mounts to your car. The device itself costs $95, and the initial prepaid card balance is $8, bringing the total to $103. You can pay for these by cash or card, making the process straightforward.

One important thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to use cash to reload your Hi-Pass card for future tolls. You can add anywhere from 10,000 to 300,000 Korean Won to the card, depending on your needs. Thankfully, topping up your balance is easy and convenient. You can do it at various locations across the country, including the Camp Henry Supply Service Center, GS25 convenience stores, and Hi-Pass expressway offices. This flexibility ensures that you’ll always be ready to hit the road without worrying about tolls slowing you down.

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How to Use the Hi-Pass Card

To start using the Hi-Pass system, simply attach the device to your vehicle’s right-hand side windshield. One of the great things about this device is that it’s both rechargeable and solar-powered, so you don’t have to worry about replacing batteries. Once it’s set up, all you need to do is look for the bright blue-marked Hi-Pass lanes when driving. The system will automatically charge your account as you pass through, making toll payments completely hassle-free.

Another handy feature is that both the device and the card are transferable, so you can easily use them in different vehicles if needed. This flexibility is a huge plus, especially if you find yourself driving various cars during your time in Korea.

And here’s a useful tip I learned firsthand—you can also pay for parking and speeding tickets at the Camp Henry Supply Service Center. This little-known perk has saved me more than once, and it’s just another reason why having a Hi-Pass is so convenient, especially for those of us stationed in the area.

Check Your Balance

The Hi-pass device has an LCD screen. To check your balance, press the button at the bottom of the unit. Every time the highway charges a toll, three things occur:

1. The device beeps and shows a running total.
2. It confirms the deducted amount in Hangul.
3. The toll amount also appears on the screen at the toll booth.

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Address:

Camp Henry Supply Service Center
Building 1225
Mon-Fri : 0800-1700 / Sat-Sun : Closed

_{This post is sponsored and/or contains affiliate links, from which I earn a commission at no extra cost to the reader. I appreciate your support and know that all the views expressed are my own.}

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