To buy a coffee truck in South Korea, budget ₩25–50M for a new Porter/Bongo build or ₩10–30M used, plus permits and inspections; secure a 1‑ton Hyundai Porter or Kia Bongo chassis (Euro 6 or LPG to avoid Seoul LEZ fines), convert, and obtain TS structure-change approval (구조변경 승인). Register your business (사업자등록), complete Food Sanitation Act hygiene training and health check, get the mobile food facility permit at your gu office, pass gas/electrical safety checks, and carry commercial auto + product liability insurance. Choose generator vs lithium battery (3–5 kW genset or 10–15 kWh pack), 2‑group 220V espresso machine (15–20A), 100–200L potable water with a waste tank 20% larger, and a K‑class extinguisher; plan winterization. Source trucks via Naver Cafe marketplaces, Joonggonara, Danggeun, or specialist coachbuilders in Gimpo/Gwangju; inspect welds, electrical load charts, stainless thickness, drainage, and service access. For revenue, secure Seoul-designated Food Truck Zones or event/film-set contracts; unauthorized street vending draws fines. Decide franchise (₩40–80M turnkey, brand fees) vs custom (more control, higher setup time). Leverage card terminals supporting Zero Pay/Naver/Kakao, reclaim VAT on commercial truck builds, and avoid grade‑5 diesel units. Timeline: 4–10 weeks build, 1–3 weeks approvals. Target campuses, parks, and festivals with seasonal menu adaptations.
