A growing number of users are utilizing a service that allows them to book taxis with a simple phone call, without needing to use the Kakao T application. By providing their starting point and destination over the phone, a consultant will book a Kakao T taxi on their behalf. This service has become a vital transportation option for users, particularly the elderly, who face challenges with digital services.
Kakao Mobility announced on August 10 that its 'Call a Taxi Instead' service, operated in partnership with KT is, has grown to over 20,000 calls per month. Since signing a memorandum of understanding with KT is in March of last year, the service has recorded approximately 150,000 calls and around 60,000 users.
Users can call 02-114, provide their starting point and destination, and a consultant will arrange a Kakao T taxi for them. The consultant also provides information about the assigned vehicle and estimated arrival time. This service enables users who find it difficult to use smartphone apps to access Kakao T taxis simply by making a phone call.
Analysis of actual call data from January to July this year revealed that 61.5% of calls originated from areas outside of Seoul, indicating that more than half of the calls came from regions beyond the capital.
The service's reach has steadily expanded. The number of cities, counties, and districts where calls were made increased from 125 in January to 153 in July. Over the past seven months, calls have been made in 221 cities, counties, and districts, as well as 1,715 towns and villages nationwide.
Kakao Mobility explained that the service's expansion beyond specific regions demonstrates its practical application in everyday transportation.
In terms of destination types, medical facilities such as hospitals and pharmacies, as well as transportation hubs like subway stations, train stations, and bus terminals, were among the most common destinations. There were also many calls for trips to residential areas, markets, and government offices, highlighting the service's role in daily life.
In addition to phone-based bookings, Kakao Mobility is also working to enhance digital accessibility through offline locations. In March, the company introduced a 'Kakao T Taxi Web Booking System' at Bundang Seoul National University Hospital. This system allows hospital staff to book Kakao T taxis on behalf of elderly patients or foreign visitors who request taxi assistance at the information desk.
Kakao Mobility aims to lower the barriers to using existing mobility services that rely on app usage and reduce transportation gaps for users struggling with digital services by providing various access points, including phone calls and offline information desks.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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