K Car tops survey of preferred platforms for private used-car transactions

K Car, a direct-managed used-car platform, announced Friday that it ranked first in a survey asking consumers which platform they would most like to use for private peer-to-peer used-car transactions.

The survey, conducted by market research firm Macromill Embrain on behalf of K Car among 700 consumers, found that 24.7 percent of the 639 respondents who were aware of at least one peer-to-peer used-car platform chose K Car as their preferred platform for such transactions — the highest share among all platforms surveyed.

Among the reasons cited for choosing K Car (multiple responses allowed), 43.0 percent said it was because the service is offered by a specialized used-car platform and therefore felt professional and safe. Another 36.7 percent said they expected the platform to provide detailed vehicle information, including condition and history. K Car scored higher than competing platforms on both counts.

The survey also confirmed latent demand for peer-to-peer transactions. Some 42.7 percent of all respondents said they would be willing to buy a vehicle through a direct transaction, while 46.6 percent said they would be willing to sell one. Among those open to buying, 53.2 percent expected to benefit from prices free of dealer commissions or middleman margins; 50.3 percent of those willing to sell said the same.

The top reasons for hesitating over direct transactions were concerns about hidden defects or problems with a vehicle's condition or performance, cited by 49.3 percent of respondents, and difficulty obtaining compensation or resolving disputes after a transaction, cited by 48.4 percent.

In response to these concerns, K Car's "Safe Direct Transaction" service supports the entire transaction process — from vehicle information checks and inspections to payment transfers and title transfers. Only individuals who have completed a verified owner authentication process may list a vehicle, and every listed vehicle comes with a safety research note covering insurance and maintenance history, allowing buyers to assess a vehicle's condition to a standard comparable to that of a direct-managed used car.

Customers who want a more thorough inspection can use K Car's on-site inspection service, in which a company expert visits the vehicle in person. K Car guarantees inspection results for 60 days or 3,000 kilometers and takes responsibility for repairs if a problem arises in any item rated as satisfactory. Payment and administrative procedures — often a burden in private transactions — are handled through a secure payment transfer service and an online title transfer system.

Jung In-kook, chief executive of KG Mobility Platform, said the survey confirmed that consumers value not only the price advantages of direct used-car transactions but also trust in vehicle condition and transaction safety. "We will draw on our used-car expertise and inspection capabilities to create an environment where individuals can buy and sell vehicles with confidence," he said.

Meanwhile, K Car is running a promotional event called "K Car Big Festa" through Nov. 5, offering direct-managed used vehicles at special prices with a range of benefits, as part of broader marketing efforts to expand customer touchpoints with the brand.