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9 Apps for Korea (What to Download Before You Go)

Last Updated: Nov 12, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Seoul has so many things in store for travelers, and to access some of them, there are some apps to download before going to Korea. After exiting Incheon International Airport , you may be surprised to see many such activities, like coffee being served by a robotic arm or being able to enter an immersive “artwork experience.”

The Seoul transportation system, for example, is often praised by locals and tourists alike for its multiple methods of moving from one point to another. This is facilitated by the use of a “T-money card,” which for locals is usually attached to their bank cards.

Tourists can also buy this rechargeable card to pay for public transit and at designated stores. To go along with the rapid and continuing advances like T-money, Koreans have developed apps that complement these shifts.

Add to that the fact that most locals rarely speak English, and you can expect most of these apps to come only in Korean. Even with a basic knowledge of the Korean language , foreigners living in Seoul might find all of these intimidating and complicated, much less tourists.

So there are now a decent number of Korean travel apps with English versions, but personally, I think some translated versions still need a lot of work. Despite the rough translations, we highly suggest that you still try downloading the 9 apps for Korea described below, if only to make your life that much easier.

Basics of Travel in South Korea

• Subway Korea/지하철 (Transportation)
• Kakao T/카카오택시 (Travel)
• Naver Map/네이버지도 or Kakao Map (Transportation)

Klook/Trazy (Travel)

Visitkorea (travel)/i tour seoul app.

• Papago/파파고 (Language Learning)
• Coupang/쿠팡 (Shopping)/Coupang Eats (Food)

Emergency Ready App

Visa: Most travelers will need a K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization ), applied for at least 72 hours before departure. If you needed a visa before, you'll need a K-ETA now. Note that from April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and several EU nations, can visit visa-free – no K-ETA required!

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

Arrival in Korea: all international flights arrive at Incheon Airport (ICN), one of the best-rated airports in the world. It usually takes about 1 hour to get through security & pick up checked bags.

Getting Around: Korea has an extensive & reliable public transport system. A refillable T-Money card is your ticket to buses and trains across the country; you can buy and refill yout TMoney card at any subways station or convenience store in Korea.

Internet & SIM Cards: Rent a Wi-Fi egg or purchase a prepaid Korean SIM card at the airport, available for up to one month of connection.

Travel Insurance: always recommended, though some credit card companies offers limited coverage when booking.

Subway Korea/지하철 (Transportation)

Cost : Free

Download : Android — Apple  

This Korean travel app is used exclusively to understand the complicated Seoul subway system. First-timers might have difficulty understanding the different colors and lines, so this app organizes all the many minute details, to make it less confusing. 

Like the other transportation apps for Korea, this one also estimates how much you will pay for the entire ride and how long the trip will be. Since the Korean subway does not have a fixed daily schedule, Subway Korea automatically updates the current subway timetable each time you open the app.

All you have to do is input the station you are in and choose the station that you wish to go to, and it accurately tells you what time the next train arrives and what kind of train it is (very helpful if you’re planning to take an Express car).

Kakao T/카카오택시 (Travel)

Download : Android — Apple

If you’re a regular Uber user, you’ll be pleased to know that this type of ride share app has a Korean version. Easy and convenient, you can avoid long lines and request the driver pick you up wherever you are with Kakao T. Skip the long wait, choose your destination, and go.

The only downside of this app is that it’s almost impossible to hail a taxi without having this app in Seoul, so it’s basically a requirement. Those who only plan to be in Seoul for less than a week might dislike the requirement of inputting a South Korean phone number to use it, but there’s no way around that for now.

It’s also a hassle if you can’t speak a lick of Korean and the taxi driver calls for clarification, so always try to have the Korean version of your destination on hand.!

Naver Map/네이버지도 or Kakao Map (Transportation)

Download : For Naver Map: Android — Apple ; For Kakao Map: Android — Apple

Foreigners often become dismayed when they realize that Google Maps is relatively ineffective here in Korea. That's why, if you wish to get around, Naver Map and Kakao Map are hands-down the best navigation apps for Korea.

All you need to do is input your destination (in Hangul in most cases – even in the English versions of the apps), and it instantly lets you know what the best routes are and what kinds of transportation you should ride to get there. 

Plus, the estimated cost also lets you know the cheapest route (bus, train, or car), helping you save money. Moreover, you can share your location with your friends, save important places and categorize them.

You can also check reviews, operating times, and pictures of your destination, making either of these  apps an ideal download for someone planning a trip to Korea.

Both apps are equally great in my opinion, but here's the rub for iPhone users: Kakao Map does not work with Apple CarPlay. If you wish to use CarPlay, you'll need Kakao Navi, but there's no English version of this app yet, so most foreigners don't bother.

Download : For Klook: Android — Apple ; For Trazy: Android — Apple

These two Korean travel apps are the best if you’re looking for discounts and deals on your trip. They both offer a range of things to do, which also takes away the stress of planning.

The best part of these apps is that they lets you earn Klook Credits/Trazy Points for your next trip, which is another way to stay frugal while you do touristy things you were already planning on doing.

Download : For VisitKorea app: Android — Apple ; For Visit Seoul app: Android —   Apple

What I love about each of these apps for Korea is that they ask you where you want to go and then give you a list of that place’s famous attractions, food, and shopping sites – letting you tailor your itinerary seamlessly.

There are also pre-made tour itineraries that you can use as reference, complete with schedules and the estimated amount. Suppose you’re interested in a particular location; each of these apps can provide a comprehensive report that shows full details of everything you need to know and even interesting facts .

These can include what gender usually frequents this establishment or the expected ages of its visitors. You can also check upcoming and ongoing events in the selected city, and both apps also give helpful advice on what you can do to plan for this properly and stay safe on your journey.

Foreigners are always encouraged to check VisitKorea’s Travel News feature to stay updated on Korean events and avail of free perks. Thanks to the VisitKorea app, I’ve actually gotten to attend numerous concerts in Seoul for free !

Papago/파파고 (Language Learning)

Papago is such a lifesaver; I think of it as the Korean Google Translate. Thanks to this app, I never had trouble communicating with locals, especially those I needed to interact with (like the maintenance guy, the bank teller, or the restaurant owner).

It even has a setting for honorifics, so I can speak to them without fearing that I might offend them (though Koreans nowadays are more understanding to foreigners). It’s super helpful, especially if you are still struggling with the Korean number system.

So if you need to know what your waiting number slip is in Korean, type it in Papago, and play the audio to hear what it should sound like (so that you know what it sounds like when they finally call you for your turn).

For documents written in Korean, it also saves you from the trouble of inputting everything in hangeul; you simply snap a picture of the note, and it immediately translates what’s written on it.

Coupang/쿠팡 (Shopping)/Coupang Eats (Food)

Download : Android — Apple ; Coupang Eats: Android — Apple

Even if you are a tourist, Coupang is still a handy app you can use to purchase things without having to go to the mall. It has everything you need, from local dishes and fresh groceries to luxury goods – it’s like the Korean Amazon (though we have Amazon here, too).

There’s also a version called Coupang Eats that lets you order food and have it directly delivered to your doorstep, similar to Uber Eats or DoorDash. Those still having difficulty interacting with locals can rely on Coupang to make shopping for items or food easier.

Like with Amazon Prime, they also send orders to you as soon as possible. Swift and efficient, you can generally trust Coupang delivery to bring items or food to you in one piece. You also don’t have to worry about meeting up with the delivery guy, because they let you know via text that what you ordered has arrived.

The only downside is that you need to know basic Korean to navigate the app properly, though this is also where having Korean friends comes in handy.

Even though Korea looks like they’re advanced enough to solve anything, there’s still this plague of heavy air pollution that they can’t seem to fix.

If you plan to trek the mountains or do some sightseeing in open skyscrapers, check with this app first. It provides real-time air pollution data, keeping you safe from exposure and dangerous health risks caused by “yellow dusk” and other forms of pollution.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the South Korean Government urges you to download this app just in case something happens and you need an emergency shelter for safe evacuation in cases of disaster. This app also alerts you if any form of calamity is near your area and where you can go for support.

Even if you never encounter these things during your stay, having this app on your phone will serve as peace of mind.

One of the best ways to truly enjoy Korea is to be on top of things. Downloading these Korean travel apps will help you overcome issues that most travelers face, from communication and transportation to actually planning your itinerary .

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The 16 Essential Apps for Korea Travel (Download for Free)

Unlike the past, this tech-friendly age has given us so many options to make our travel safe and convenient. And by being a traveller you surely have certain smartphone applications that serve you well for any trip, like Klook, Airbnb, Google Maps, and so on. 

But when we travel to countries like Korea , Japan, Vietnam, or China, we face difficulty in communication. Because these countries’ people barely understand English and on the other hand, we barely understand their language.

In such cases, smartphone applications are the most helpful companion. 

Now, if you’re planning a trip to Korea, the situation is the same and you would find communication problems. So, take your phone and download these 13 essential Apps for Korea travel 2022 . And all these apps are totally free to download.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Essential Apps for Korea Travel, Apps to enter Korea.

For the recent pandemic, like any other country in the world, the Korean government has also imposed some requirements and restrictions on travellers. So, from now, if you want to enter Korea, you will have to follow those rules. And to follow the rules you have to have the following apps.

1. Self-Check

Self-Check is a must-have app to enter Korea. Recently the Ministry of Health and Welfare Republic Korea launched this app so that all travellers can record their health status daily. on the app for 14 days after arriving in Korea.

And without having this app the Korean government does not allow any traveller to enter Korea. So like I said before, you must have to have the Self-Check app to enter Korea. This app is available in five different languages, including Korean, English, French, Chinese, and Japanese. Download: iOS ｜ Android

K-ETA is the abbreviation of Korea Electronic Travel Authorization. Not all travellers need this app. It is mandatory only for visitors who have come from countries that concluded a visa waiver agreement with Korea and designated visa-free entry to Korea.

By using the K-ETA app, you can apply for K-ETA easily and conveniently. You just have to submit relevant information in the K-ETA application form. And the application must be filled out at least 24 hours before boarding your flight or ship.

Download: iOS ｜ Android

Travel Guide

When you’re visiting a new destination, particularly a new country, a travel guide may be the first thing that you would look for. 

Unlike the past days, now we really do not depend on a person who can guide us in a new place. Rather we prefer technology or apps to guide us. 

Here are some travel guide apps that will serve you on your trip to Korea.

T-money is a contactless smart card used for transportation, making payments at convenience stores, and other purposes in South Korea . To make it easier to manage your T-money balance on the go, there is an Android app available which can be downloaded from the Google Play Store.

This T-money Android app allows users to check their balance, view transaction history and recharge their card on their devices. Furthermore, users can also find information about transportation routes and schedules as well as discounts and promotions. To access all features of the app, users need to set up an account with their T-money card number and personal information upon logging in.

4. Visit Korea

Visit Korea is a well-known Korean app that is specially made for travellers by the Korea Tourist Organization . This app will give you multiple services like tourist attractions, tour courses, information about Korean, Korean festivals, finding restaurants and shopping centers, exchange rates, weather updates, and many more.

So this one app can make your Korea trip so much better. Furthermore, the Visit Korea app is managed by the South Korean Government, which makes this app much more reliable than any other app.

And if you can’t manage an internet connection, you can always save information for the offline visit.

Trazy is the short form of travel+crazy. This app is very helpful and essential when you’re finding a travel guide app. Trazy not only shows you unique attractions and trendy things to do but by using this app, you will get discounts on tickets and tours as well.

Who doesn’t love discounts, especially when you’re on travel and the budget is tight? You can have the best deals on most Korean attractions and activities with only a few clicks.

There is barely any traveller who doesn’t know about the Klook app. This app is useful for any destination or country, including Korea. 

If you’re a regular traveller, I am pretty sure you already have this app on your mobile phone. Klook is a great travel guide that also offers numerous alluring deals on tours and tickets. 

Moreover, if you’re a regular user of Klook, you can have a special loyalty discount the more you book tickets and tours through it.

Translation & Communication

In a country like Korea which doesn’t use English as their first language, travellers face communication problems a lot. Because we hardly understand a single word of the Korean language. 

On the contrary, Korean people are not very used to of English language. In such a case, translation apps are lifesavers.

Here are the two transaction and communication apps that would help you to understand and translate the Korean language into English.

My personal favourite translation app is Papago which I have been using for years. It not only helped me on my Korea trip but also on trips to Japan, China, and Vietnam. 

Papago is an app from Naver Corporation that supports nearly 13 languages, which is pretty awesome for travellers like us. Furthermore, it can translate images, voice, and handwriting as well.

And from my personal experience, I can tell you this app will give you more accurate translation than any other app.

8. Naver Korean Dictionary & Translate

If you’re willing to do some chitchat with locals in the Korean language, you can use Naver Korean Dictionary & Translate , which is specially made to translate the Korean language. But don’t think that it only serves you in Korea. This appointment can also translate languages like French, Thai, Vietnamese, Hindi, and more.

Yeah, you can say, ” I have Google translation, which is the number one translation app in the world”. I admit it. But do you admit that often Google translates stupidly, which has no meaning?

I bet you do notice that. Well, with the Naver Korean Dictionary & Translate app, you would not face such awkward translations. This application will give an accurate translation of the Korean language.

Social Network

Social network is undoubtedly a significant benefit of having a smartphone. If you’re coming to Korea to meet a local friend, you certainly have to have a social network app to stay connected. 

9. Kakao Talk Messenger

Kakao Talk Messenger is a number one social network app in Korea that is used by nearly every Korean person. This app has so many features. Apart from texting and calling, you can share photos and videos, transfer money, and share your current location.

All you need is to have an internet connection to use this app. This app helped me a lot to stay connected with the host of Airbnb. So if you don’t use the Kakao Talk app, it could be a bit difficult to stay in touch in Korea.

When you’re in a new place, it is no need to say that you need to have a Map that will direct you through the town or country. In the past days, travellers carried a printed map and a compass to direct themselves.

But in the days of technology, who carries such things as printed maps or compass, right? So here, you need a digital map on your phone to direct you through Korea.

10. Naver Map

In Korea, you will not get much benefit from Google Maps as it doesn’t work well there. For security purposes, the Korean Government declares to store the map data on the local server. 

So, it would be more handy and helpful if you use the Korean local map application, the Naver Map . Besides showing the exact location, this app gives you more facilities to make your trip easier. 

When you’re in a foreign country, it is hard to have an internet connection all the time, particularly on the road where you’re finding some address. Isn’t it a familiar problem to you? 

Naver Map can be the solution to this problem. You can download any location or address and then you can track that location offline, without data. Furthermore, this app supports languages like English, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese.

Transportation

Transportation apps are unavoidable at any destination. So you have to have these apps to travel here and there in Korea. And some of these apps will also give discounts on ticket prices.

11. Subway Korea

Subway Korea is another local map app that shows the subway routes of some major cities and areas of Korea. With this app, your Korea trip would be more convenient. 

The Subway Korea app tells you which route would be the fastest and easiest to get to your destination and also shows the to-the-minute train schedule. The best part is that you can also use this app offline.

12. Kakao Metro

Kakao Metro is locals’ favourite app that shows the most convenient and fastest routes and public transportations. By using this app, you can find stations, the best transport, transport schedule, and how fast the transport is. So, this one app can give you multiple services.

13. Kakao Taxi

Not every time we manage to take public transport, especially when you are loaded with luggage. In such a case, you certainly need to grab a taxi and the Kakao Taxi app is the most trustable for this purpose.

This app works like Uber. You just have to give your current location and your targeted destination. Then you’ll have the “Request Taxi” button, click on it. That’s all! Within a few minutes, your taxi will come to pick you up.

Taking a taxi from this app is the safest and most convenient way, where you don’t have to worry about getting ripped off.

Exchanging Currency

The name of the Korean currency is Korean Won which you need to exchange with your home currency. Here is the app that will help you out.

14. XE Currency

XE Current is a very useful app when it comes to exchanging your home currency for Korean Won. This app helps you to understand the currency rate and change it according to that rate.

Find Food & Restaurants

Many travellers’ travel purpose is to taste the local cuisine. But at a new destination how would you know which food or restaurant is the best and local favourite? 

Here are the apps that will help you find out the best food and restaurants in Korea.

15. MangoPlate

MangoPlate is one of the most popular apps to find the best restaurants in Korea. It shows you more than 200,000 restaurants with their rating and review. So you can have multiple options to choose a fine restaurant to dine at. Furthermore, this app is available in the English language which makes it more convenient for travellers.

If you’re not willing to go to a restaurant, you can always order food online through the Yogiyo app. This app will give you delivery anywhere. Yes, I mean it ANYWHERE, whether you’re in your hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or outside. 

For example, you’re chilling at some famous attraction in Korea, and you feel hungry. Immediately you can order food via Yogiyo which delivers food within only 30 minutes. Sounds good?

To make your Korean trip hassle-free and enjoyable, you surely should use these applications. Because these apps will help you at every step. And if you have been to Korea and used any of these apps, let us know how your experience has been. We are eager to know your travel stories!

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Hi, thx for the list just went to South Korea. Such a beautiful country. And used almost all of those apps. Esspeicialy the Kakao Taxi app help me a lot, so easy to order a taxi with it.

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13 Best Korean Travel Apps – Prepare for Your Korea Trip

With the proliferation of smartphones and many options to stay connected internationally, a common travel preparation step for many has become downloading the essential travel apps of a country. After all, no one wants to land in a new country and suddenly find out they can’t perform basic tasks such as navigating the subway system or hailing a taxi!

While many countries share common apps – for example, Uber will work in pretty much any English-speaking country and many more, while Grab is your friend in Southeast Asia – Korea has its own ecosystem of apps. Slightly annoyingly, many of these apps will only work in Korea. Preparing your smartphone for a trip to Korea will require at least a few apps you wouldn’t have used before.

If you’re looking to prepare for your trip to South Korea digitally, you’ve come to the right place. This article will discuss the apps you’ll want to have before your trip to the country. If you’re already in Korea, what are you waiting for? Check out the list, and make sure to download these apps ASAP! They will make your life far easier.

I want to note one thing before diving into this list. You don’t need any apps when visiting Korea. While many articles say some apps are essential, I don’t believe this is the case. Will these apps make your trip more convenient? Absolutely! However, you can do everything from navigating the subway to hailing taxis without apps.

However, having these apps (and an internet connection) will make your trip a more pleasant experience. While navigating the subway with station maps is possible, using an app is infinitely better. The same goes for hailing taxis; you can get a taxi via hailing one or phone, but using an app is far simpler.

With that said, let’s jump into this list of the best Korean travel apps. If you’ve visited Korea and believe I’ve overlooked something important, I would love to hear from you. What apps did you find most useful during your stay? Conversely, if there are any apps you don’t consider essential or even particularly useful I would love to hear from you in the comments below!

Staying Connected in Korea

Although some of these apps will work without an internet connection, many won’t function at all. On top of this, having a connection will make your life much easier – if you get lost, you can easily find your way. If you need to get a taxi home, you’ll want to use Kakao Taxi, which requires the Internet.

The best way to stay connected in Korea is with a SIM card (either a local SIM or one with roaming), eSIM, or a portable WiFi device. These options have different strengths and prices and require a dedicated article to discuss and contrast them.

Luckily, there is already such an article on this website! If you’re wondering how best to stay connected to the internet while in South Korea, you’ll want to check out this article on the best SIM cards in Korea . I discuss all three connection options in that article and compare the best travel plans.

Whichever method you choose, I would highly recommend getting it sorted before leaving your home country. It can be difficult to sort out a roaming plan when you’re already overseas, and the best place to pick up a SIM is at the airport (most companies will allow you to preorder you SIM so it’s ready to go when you arrive). For this reason, it’s advisable to prepare your connectivity before anding.

Best Korean Travel Apps

So, you’re planning to travel to Korea? Or perhaps you’re already in the country? These are the apps that I would consider essential (or, as previously mentioned, as close to essential as an app can be), along with a few that will make your time in Korea far easier.

Before I delve into the apps that made the list, there are also a few apps that I want to discuss but that don’t deserve a place on this list. For example, I find using a VPN essential when travelling because I will often use public WiFi, which, as we all know, is often incredibly insecure. 

There are also a few other app categories that, while not essential, will make your trip more pleasant. For example, if you want to take the difficulty out of finding dining options, Mango Plate is a great option for locating restaurants selling delectable food. On the other hand, having a ‘time waster’ app is by no means essential, but it will make those long train and bus rides infinitely more pleasant.

So what apps am I talking about? Here are a few that you might want to consider on top of the ‘essentials’.

• A VPN . The exact app you use for internet privacy is up to you; everyone will have a different preference. I have a whole article about Korean VPNs , and I recommend checking that article out if you’re unsure what to pick. However, my general recommendation for a free VPN is Cloudflare’s WARP (1.1.1.1). While it’s technically not a VPN, it provides the same protection from third parties that VPNs do.
• Visit Korea . This app, created by the government, has a wealth of information for visitors to Korea. However, while many other blogs will list this as a ‘must have’ app, I simply can’t agree – I’ve never seen a need for it, but it’s a great source of travel inspiration if you want to check it out!
• Mango Plate . Another app that is often recommended is Mango Plate. This app recommends cafes and restaurants and will let you pinpoint the best eating spots daily. However, I don’t see it as essential because I use Naver Maps or Google Maps for this function – just sort by highly rated restaurants and viola!
• Travel payment apps . If you use a service like Wise or Revolut, you will want to ensure these apps are downloaded and ready to use. You never know when you’ll need access to the app, and it’s easiest to be prepared.
• A time-wasting app . In Korea, you’ll often find yourself on public transport, which means long waiting periods. If you have unlimited data, it’s easy to overcome the arduous wait with the help of social media. However, if you have limited data, you might want to download some games or at least some TV shows or movies beforehand. Spending an hour and a half on the Seoul Metro with no distractions can be boring!
• T Locker. Many of Seoul’s subway stations have lockers, but these can be difficult to figure out how to use. Luckily, T Locker makes the process (mostly) painless! If you foresee yourself needing to store backpacks or luggage at subway stations, make sure you’re prepared with this Korean app!
• A language practice app. If you want to brush up on your Korean skills while visiting, it’s a good call to be prepared with your favourite language app! This will be Duolingo for many, but Memrise, LingoDear, and FluentU are also popular. If you’re wondering what apps I recommend, check out my article on the best ways to learn Korean.
• Shopping apps . While it’s far more thrilling to shop in person when you’re travelling, there may be some things that you can’t find or are cheaper online. In these cases, you’ll want to download either Coupang or Gmarket. While Coupang has a better selection, Gmarket’s English and international card support is much better, and I recommend it.
• Emergency Ready . The Korean government runs this app, and it provides warnings and updates on disasters and emergencies. It’s a handy app to have in case something happens – at the end of the day, it’s better to be prepared, right? 
• BucaCheck.  This handy app will allow you to check the balance of your T Money card (Korea’s public transport card) at any time. All you need is a smartphone with NFC (which nearly all modern smartphones have). Simply tap the card against the back of your phone, and see your balance and recent transactions. You can also check the balance whenever you tap your card against a bus or subway scanner, but having an app to check is far more convenient.

Seoul Subway/Subway Korea/KakaoMetro

The first ‘essential’ app for travelling in Korea is instead a category than an individual app. You’ll almost certainly be in Seoul during your stay for at least a while. Since the best way to explore the city is via the fantastic public transport, you’ll undoubtedly want a way to navigate Seoul’s sprawling subway system .

The Korean government recently released an all-English subway app aptly named ‘Seoul Subway – Official App’. This app is many travellers’ favourite due to how easy it is to navigate and the attraction suggestions it provides for each subway stop. You’ll also get all the other essential information, such as trip time, station schedules, and much more.

My favourite subway app is Subway Korea, though. This app is also available in English and is exceptionally easy to use. Perhaps I’m just used to it at this point, but I find the UI more intuitive than the Seoul Subway app, and it’s the app I continue to recommend for navigating the underground side of Korea’s capital.

The final app in this section, which I recommend least, is Kakao Metro. The app is a bit more confusing than the former options, but many travellers like to use it… Although I’m not quite sure why. Perhaps because having many similar icons on your home screen looks pretty? You’ll see a theme once you have KakaoBus, KakaoTalk, and KakaoMetro!

Since we are already on the topic of one of Korea’s largest tech companies, we may as well cover another of its offerings. What happens if you don’t like to navigate the underground of Seoul? Are you left needing to walk everywhere? Luckily not, because believe me, Seoul is massive!

If you’d prefer to use another form of Korea’s public transport, KakaoBus has you covered. This is easily the best bus app in Korea, and it will give you timetables and bus routes for the whole country. While the app is in Korean, it’s relatively easy to navigate as you can use the map to find bus stops and check bus numbers.

The app also provides more advanced functionality, putting it above and beyond other domestic options and public transport apps in nearly every other country. For example, you can see how many seats are available on each bus; for some buses, you can even see other conditions, such as whether the bus has AC.

One thing to note: I don’t recommend using KakaoBus to plan routes – that is much better done on Google or Naver Maps. Instead, I recommend planning a route on one of those apps and checking the bus schedules on KakaoBus.

Since we’re already giving attention to Kakao, we may as well stay on the topic. The third and final transport app you’ll find incredibly useful in both Seoul and other cities in South Korea is KakaoTaxi.

KakaoTaxi is the single best app for calling taxis, and there’s no competition. Despite what some people will tell you, Uber does work in South Korea. However, you’ll sometimes find it hard (or impossible) to get rides. It is simply a more expensive way to get a KakaoTaxi (Uber does not call individuals in Korea, only taxis). Therefore, you’re much better off downloading KakaoTaxi and using that instead.

You’ll need a Kakao account to use KakaoTaxi (we’ll get to that in a second!), but calling a taxi is straightforward once you’re set up. When the app asks for payment options, you must select ‘pay the driver’ unless you have a domestic card. Luckily, all taxis in Korea accept debit and credit cards alongside cash.

I promise this is the last Kakao entry! If you’re unaware, KakaoTalk is Korea’s largest messaging app. While you might want it to collect contact details of anyone you meet on your trip, I recommend it primarily because you’ll need a Kakao account to use apps like KakaoTaxi.

If you have KakaoTalk installed and have an account created, you can log in to the other Kakao apps through the messenger. Since KakaoTaxi is close to essential for calling taxis, KakaoTalk quickly becomes a very important app to have. 

Since KakaoTalk is used by over 95% of Koreans, it’s also a handy app if you wish to make friends while travelling. Don’t expect people in Korea to use any other messaging app, such as Messenger or Whatsapp, because many will exclusively use KakaoTalk (although Instagram is also popular).

Naver Maps/Google Maps

To round up the navigation apps you’ll want to have on your phone before visiting South Korea, you will want to download either Naver Maps or Google Maps (if you don’t already have it!). Many will say that Google Maps isn’t functional or doesn’t work well in Korea, but this is not true anymore – it was in 2016, but not since 2018. 

Of course, having one of these apps is helpful for locating stores, restaurants, cafes, and more. However, they’re also nearly essential for planning bus routes and determining whether taking a bus or the subway is a better option for a given journey. 

When it comes to comparing travel times, I find Naver Maps to be the better choice. The app is available in English (although, for some, the app seems to default to Korean) and is easy to use. On the other hand, Google Maps is easier for planning bus trips, and most people will already be familiar with it.

Whichever map app you use during your visit to Korea, you will be set and have all your navigation needs met. You can’t go wrong with a map app, just make sure you’re not planning to use Apple Maps because it still lags significantly behind both of these options.

After transport (or perhaps even before), the biggest issue you’ll likely encounter is the language barrier. While English is common in Korea (and you’ll find all the stations are signposted in English), it can be difficult to manage some situations without a translation app.

Now, it’s easy to think that Google Translate is the best option, and many travellers will default to using the app because they’ve used it when visiting other countries. However, while Google Translate is now better than it was a few years ago, it’s still far behind the far superior translation app run by Naver – Papago.

Papago only offers Korean to English translation, but it’s far more accurate and natural-sounding than Google Translate. While Google Translate will manage most situations just fine, it’s worth downloading Papago for the duration of your trip as it’s more accurate and has better image-to-text capabilities.

If you don’t want to download a separate app, you can use the Papago webpage on your phone’s browser. However, this is a bit slower and more finicky, so I would advise against this approach unless you hate digital clutter (as I do!)

If you’re planning to leave Seoul and travel around the country, you’ll likely be taking some of Korea’s super-advanced high-speed trains. These trains, most famously the KTX, are all booked through either Korail’s website, app or in person at the station. 

However, KTX tickets will sell out often, so I recommend against purchasing them at the station unless you do so in advance. I used to take around eight KTX trains per week, and they would almost always be booked out on the day. For this reason, it’s a far better choice to use the app and book them in advance.

Now, the app is nothing to write home about; I would argue that it’s quite a poorly made app, and it can be difficult to use at times. That said, it’s more convenient than the website, which is an even worse experience.

The Korail app will allow you to book intercity trains, such as the KTX, at any time and give you a place to store your tickets. For this reason, having this app is almost essential if you will be leaving Seoul during your stay.

Say you don’t like trains, or for some other reason, you don’t want to use Korea’s high-speed rail system. Are you forced to fly? Luckily, no! There is another option, albeit a far slower one. As you may have already guessed, Bus Tago will allow you to book buses between cities in the country.

The Association of Korea Bus Transport Companies runs the app and allows you to view intercity bus schedules and book tickets. While you can also use the website for this, I’ve found the app to be a better experience.

Handily, if you use the app instead of the website, you will also find your tickets all stored in one location. This makes it incredibly easy to find them again when you need to board the bus or present your ticket for whatever other reason.

Depending on where you are visiting from, air quality may not be something you check every day. In Seoul and other cities around the peninsula, you will want to keep an eye on air pollution every day before you go outside – especially if you are visiting in spring or fall.

Especially if you’re visiting only briefly, you shouldn’t let air pollution ruin your plans. However, it’s handy to know when you’ll want to be wearing a mask outdoors – even though you might only have short-term exposure, air pollution has many severe health consequences.

On a lighter note, knowing the air pollution levels before visiting certain attractions is good. For example, Namsan Tower and Seoul Sky at Lotte Tower are best avoided on dusty days as the views become less appealing. It’s also not ideal for picnicking near the Han River on a dusty day!

For these reasons, having an air quality app is essential. Air Visual is by far the best and most well-liked air quality app and is easy to recommend due to its simplicity. It also gives suggestions for how you should act at any given AQI level.

Klook/Trazy

If you’re looking to save a bit of money during your stay or want to get involved with lots of tours, these apps are both super useful to have. Klook and Trazy are travel companies that sell a range of attraction tickets, tours, and these days even offer rental cars!

I wasn’t going to add these two apps because it’s easy enough to use their respective websites for booking activities. However, then I remembered that the ticket prices offered on either app tend to be cheaper than purchasing in person, and I thought they are worth recommending.

What do I mean? Well, say you’re around Myeongdong and suddenly decide you want to visit Namsan Tower since it’s nearby. If you go to the tower and book tickets, you will pay a flat price of 10,000 KRW per ticket. However, if you quickly hop on one of these apps, it’s possible to find tickets as low as 8000KRW.

This same discount can be found on other attractions such as Lotte World, Oceanworld, and Everland. If you like to travel with some spontaneity, having one of these apps will let you save a little amount here and there, and we all know this can quickly add up over time!

Korean Convenience

If you suffer from food allergies, travelling can be difficult. This is no more true than when you’re travelling to a country where the language is different, and communication is sometimes difficult or even impossible. 

While restaurants will always be challenging to order at (and it’s worth writing down your allergies in advance so that you can show staff), there’s a rather handy app that makes purchasing snacks and supermarket/convenience store food a vastly easier process.

Korean Convenience is an app that has an extensive database of snacks, ramyeons, and sweets, and it has allergy information on each. If you’re wondering which Korean ramyeon contains a seafood base or is meat-based, this app will tell you painlessly.

There is also a guide on how to read Korean nutrition labels for foods that aren’t in the app’s database. This is handy to know, and I remember that learning how to read these labels made my life in Korea vastly easier.

Food delivery is synonymous with Korea, and it’s long been one of the most famous aspects of the country. The delivery is quick and cheap, and you can get almost any food imaginable delivered – at least as long as you’re in a big city such as Seoul or Busan.

There are many food delivery apps in Korea, but they’re difficult or impossible for travellers to use. For example, two of the most popular apps, Baemin and Yogiyo have a fantastic selection of foods on offer, but they both require domestic payment methods and are only available in Korea. Coupang Eats, another popular option, is available in English but only accepts domestic payment methods.

This makes Shuttle the only option for anyone wanting to order food in English and who doesn’t have a Korean payment method (either a Korean bank account or credit/debit card). While it’s frustrating there is only one choice, it’s the unfortunate reality of ordering food in Korea.

While it might seem like a waste to visit a country only to get food delivered, it’s a handy app to have. If you’ve had a big day exploring, sometimes the last thing you want to do is leave your hotel room. In these situations, having an app like Shuttle is invaluable!

Booking.com/Hotel app of your choice

If you’ve already booked your accommodation in advance, you can skip this app as you won’t need it. However, a booking app is essential for spontaneous travellers like me because we often don’t book hotels until a few days beforehand. 

Personally, I recommend Booking.com. I’ve used them for over 100 hotel bookings over the past three years and never had issues with the platform or its customer service. Furthermore, it offers a range of app-only discounts, which make the app a cheaper alternative to the website.

Whether you are looking for backpackers, apartments, hotels, or hostels, Booking.com has a large range of options. With the downfall of Airbnb, many hosts have moved to ‘hotel’ platforms, and there are now almost limitless accommodation options in every large Korean city.

Other Apps For Visiting Korea

This concludes my list of the most useful apps to have when visiting South Korea. However, depending on your interests and reasons for visiting Korea, you may find other apps helpful to download in advance. For example, if you love hiking , AllTrails is a handy app that could prove invaluable during your stay.

If you want to get involved with locals during your stay, MeetUp is a valuable app that doesn’t just work in Korea! During my last visit to Seoul, I used MeetUp to find a photography meetup as I lacked inspiration. It was a great idea as I made a group of friends who invited me on a few trips during my stay.

Apps like Hello Talk can also be a great way to meet friends to hang out with during your stay. Many also use the app for dating, though, so make sure you are clear about your intentions. 

About Ethan Brooke

My name is Ethan Brooke and I have been living in South Korea since 2016. Since then, I have fallen in love with exploring and travelling around Korea. One thing that I quickly realised however, is that there is still a lot of information missing on Korea - at least in English. I started Seoulinspired to help fill that gap and to provide information to others living in and visiting South Korea. View all posts by Ethan Brooke →

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• 15 Best Apps for Korea To Download Before You Go

Dec 29, 2023 | Korean Apps

Preparing for your journey to South Korea involves more than just packing a suitcase. It’s about equipping your smartphone with the right apps for Korea. Essential for navigating the dynamic life of South Korea, these apps are as crucial as your passport and travel guide. 

From strolling through Seoul’s neon-lit streets to savoring authentic bibimbap or chatting with new local friends, they are the keys to an enriching and effortless Korean experience. 

Whether you’re a soon-to-be expat, a short-term visitor, or a Korean culture enthusiast from afar, these handpicked apps will enhance every aspect of your Korean journey. 

Our list of 15 essential apps, popular among Koreans and foreigners, is designed to ease your integration into the Korean way of life. They simplify daily tasks, break down language barriers, and connect you with Korea’s local culture and digital pulse.

Dive into this guide to find the best apps to quickly turn you from a newbie visitor into a savvy local navigating South Korea’s unique digital ecosystem.

Technological Landscape in Korea

Before we look at the best apps for Korea, it is essential to understand the differences between Korea and the rest of the world regarding technology.

As the birthplace of Samsung, one of the most influential companies globally, South Korea has long been a fortress for Android devices. Samsung’s deep roots in the country’s tech landscape have shaped the digital experience for many Koreans. 

However, there’s been a noticeable shift in recent years with iPhones gaining popularity, especially among the younger generation. This is likely due to K-Pop idols’ increasing use of iPhones and product placement in more K-Dramas. 

There is now a more diverse usage between Samsung and Apple amongst the Korean population than ever. As of the end of 2022, Android had a  69.8% market share, and iOS had a 29.8% market share .

The Unique Korean App Ecosystem

As you prepare to dive into the world of Korean apps, let’s first look at what sets South Korea’s digital landscape apart. The Korean app ecosystem is fascinatingly unique from the rest of the world and is waiting for you to begin your digital adventures. 

Unlike many countries where global giants like Google and Meta dominate the digital space, Korea has developed its own ecosystem of helpful apps that cater to virtually every aspect of daily life. From navigation to social networking, there’s a homegrown app for it.

There are many reasons why this is the case. The Korean language plays a significant role – apps developed specifically for a native Korean-speaking audience can offer a more seamless experience. Local regulations and business practices have also influenced the market toward domestic developers, whose apps align more with Korean culture, values, and lifestyle.

What do Koreans use instead of Google?

While global apps have their place in Korea, local apps often provide a more tailored experience. For instance, Google’s presence in the Korean digital space is relatively small, with local alternatives taking the lead. 

It may seem surprising that Naver is the go-to search engine. It has a significant market share of  62% compared to Google, with 31.4% . However, Google’s presence is slowly rising in Korea with a more connected global world.

Similarly, Kakao has established itself as a multifaceted platform, rivaling many global services in functionality and popularity. Understanding and adopting local apps is critical for anyone looking to immerse themselves fully in Korean life.

They offer practical solutions and are a significant part of Korean daily life.

Getting Started with Korean Apps

If you’re an Android user or an iPhone enthusiast, you can download all the apps from the  Google Play Store  or Apple App Store . Also, every recommended app is free and available in English by adjusting the language settings.

While most of these apps are available globally, it’s important to note that some may not be accessible in specific countries’ app stores. It depends on regional regulations and app distribution policies. 

If you find any app unavailable in your country, consider finding a similar app alternative.

Now that we’ve explored how South Korea’s apps are different from the rest of the world, let’s dive into the essential apps for a seamless Korean experience.

Best Navigation Apps For South Korea

Google Maps isn’t accurate or comprehensive in Korea due to restrictions on exporting map data outside the country and less detailed local travel information. Luckily, there are native Korean navigation apps that allow you to explore South Korea with ease.

Naver Map is the most popular navigation app in South Korea. It’s like your trusty sidekick to help you get around Korea with spot-on directions. Whether navigating Seoul’s bustling streets or trying to find a famous hidden café everyone is talking about – Naver Maps has your back. It isn’t just a navigation app. Naver Maps is like having your own private guide who knows all the ins and outs of South Korea. It has everything from real-time traffic updates to the best walking routes and even indoor maps of buildings. Foreigners and locals alike use Naver Maps as their go-to guide for navigating every street and neighborhood in Korea.

Download Naver Map: iOS | Android

Next is KakaoMap. If Naver Maps is a knowledgeable local guide, KakaoMap is your friendly and easygoing travel companion. It’s very user-friendly and has all the local insights you need. Whether driving, catching a bus, walking, or biking, KakaoMap will accurately guide you. KakaoMap also seamlessly connects with other Kakao apps. Whether looking for the quickest route to a famous tourist attraction or trying to go to a local coffee shop to meet a local friend, KakaoMap makes exploring Korea a breeze, and it is used by first-time visitors and locals alike.

Download KakaoMap: iOS | Android

Naver Maps vs KakaoMap

While both Naver Maps and KakaoMap are excellent navigation apps, each has its distinct charm. Naver Maps is the go-to choice for detailed and comprehensive maps, while KakaoMap is the better option for its user-friendly layout and integration with the Kakao ecosystem. 

Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preference. We recommend downloading both and seeing which suits your preference and travel style best.

Subway Korea

The Subway Korea app lets you navigate Korea’s subway like a pro. It is a lifesaver for anyone using the subway network, whether they are daily commuters in Seoul or tourists traveling in South Korea across the country. Subway Korea offers real-time train schedules, route planning, and station information, taking the guesswork out of your journey. It has easy-to-follow directions and an intuitive interface that allows you to navigate and discover Korea’s underground urban landscape with the confidence of a local.

Download Subway Korea: iOS | Android

Best Communication and Language Apps For Korea

When it comes to communicating like a local and immersing yourself deep in Korean culture, there are some crucial apps to help you enhance your language skills and cultural understanding. They break down language barriers so you can have a more authentic experience. These helpful apps open new doors to more meaningful connections and conversations. Whether you’re learning Korean, planning a trip, or simply indulging in Korean culture from abroad, these apps will make your Korean journey easier and more enriching. From intuitive messaging apps to advanced translation services, these are apps that will help guide you through communication in South Korea:

Jump into Korea’s digital world with KakaoTalk – the messaging app every Korean loves to use daily. From chatting with friends, sharing updates, or making payments, KakaoTalk is more than just an app; it’s a vital part of Korean culture. The user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing design and vast features let you stay connected like a Korean.

Have you ever noticed characters in K-Dramas texting away? Chances are, they’re using KakaoTalk. That’s how popular it is in Korea.

So, while you may use WhatsApp to stay in touch with family and friends back home, KakaoTalk is your key to connecting with new Korean friends, arranging meet-ups, and experiencing Korea’s vibrant social life.

Download KakaoTalk: iOS | Android

Forget about Google Translate. It’s time to meet Papago, your trusted translation app in South Korea. This app is a game-changer when it comes to translations. Papago is hands down more accurate than Google Translate in translating Korean. If you’re trying to decode a menu, street sign or ask a friendly local for directions, Papago makes sure that language barriers won’t be an issue. It’s like having a bilingual friend in your pocket who can help you communicate like a local rather than a classroom-style language, and it is a great way to speak fluent Korean.

Download Papago: iOS | Android

Naver Dictionary

Naver Dictionary is much more than just an average dictionary. It’s an engaging companion to learn Korean and helps with everything from basic phrases to complex sentences. This app makes mastering the Korean language an enjoyable experience. So if you’re after a language learning companion, are a traveler to Korea, or are someone interested in South Korean culture, Naver Dictionary is a must-have. It goes beyond accurate translations and provides real-life examples and audio pronunciations to help you perfect your Korean pronunciation. Imagine having a personal language tutor ready to guide you effortlessly through the Korean language and culture.

Download Naver Dictionary: iOS | Android

Best Travel and Tourism Apps For Korea

Next, let’s look at the following essential apps for travel and planning your trip to South Korea. They include everything you need to plan your trip, book accommodation, flights, taxis, and more.

If you’re visiting South Korea for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, these South Korean travel apps will help you explore the rich heritage, vibrant city life, and spectacular landscapes.

Visit Korea App

The VisitKorea App is your personal tour guide and a great way to discover South Korea. It is full of information for travelers, such as detailed guides, insider tips, and the latest news on local attractions. You’ll be able to uncover hidden gems and plan your itinerary. Whether you’re staying long-term or embarking on a trip of a lifetime, this app guides you to the best cherry blossom spots, trendy Seoul cafes, and more. It’s like having a local friend always ready to show you around and reveal the secrets of Korea’s best culture, cuisine, and landscapes.

Download VisitKorea: iOS | Android

Trip.com is a favorite among international travelers to Korea. Imagine effortlessly planning your entire Korean adventure, from Seoul’s bustling streets to Jeju Island’s serene landscapes, with ease on Trip.com. The app consolidates many travel services – from hotel reservations and flight bookings to train tickets and tour attractions. It gives you the best deals and easy organization for every part of your trip. If you’re looking for the best deals on flights or organizing your hotel bookings, Trip.com makes your South Korean adventure memorable and hassle-free. Its user-friendly interface transforms travel planning, allowing you to immerse yourself in South Korea’s vibrant culture easily.

Download Trip.com: iOS | Android

Kakao T (Kakao Taxi)

Forget about Uber and Grab. Kakao T (Kakao Taxi) is Korea’s go-to app for reliable and convenient taxi services. More than just a taxi app, Kakao T is a daily staple in Korea. It offers an intuitive interface, quick connections to nearby taxis, real-time tracking for added security, and multiple payment options. You can easily book a taxi anytime, anywhere in Korea, and have peace of mind that you’re never left waiting. Whether you’re meeting a local friend or navigating Seoul’s vibrant streets, you can rely on Kakao T for safe, comfortable rides that make you feel like a true local.

Download Kakao T: iOS | Android

Best Food Delivery Apps In Korea

When it comes to food delivery in South Korea, you won’t find international heavyweights like Uber Eats, Grab, or DoorDash to deliver all your culinary delights. Instead, local apps reign supreme, uniquely tailored to the tastes and needs of Koreans. Imagine having the best of Korea’s culinary world, from sizzling BBQs to sweet bingsu and savory kimbap. Your favorite Korean dishes or snacks are just a tap away.

Baemin (Baedal Minjok)

The next app is Baemin (Baedal Minjok). It is South Korea’s go-to food delivery app and offers everything from sizzling Korean BBQ to comforting late-night snacks. Baemin has a massive choice of restaurants in Korea, and its easy-to-use app makes ordering a breeze. The only tricky thing is figuring out what to order! It’s fast, efficient, and loved by locals. Your food will arrive hot and fresh, direct to your doorstep. Baemin offers personalized recommendations, real-time order tracking, and a loyalty program with special offers and discounts. Get ready to explore Korea’s culinary landscape with Baemin – where a world of delicious cuisine awaits you at the tap of a button.

Download Baemin: iOS | Android

Yogiyo is a popular alternative to Baemin in South Korea’s dynamic food delivery market. Think of it as your portal to a diverse culinary world. The app has a mouth-watering menu from authentic soul-warming Korean cuisine to popular Western burgers, catering to every type of food craving. Yogiyo stands out with special promotions and a sleek interface, making it an excellent choice for anyone exploring new Korean flavors or enjoying their usual favorites. If you’re unwinding after a long day or too busy to cook, Yogiyo is perfect for convenient dining and delivers a large selection of food choices right to your door. You’ll soon discover why it is a go-to app for many Koreans looking for a different taste or a fresh twist on their usual food delivery experience.

Download Yogiyo: iOS | Android

Best Online Shopping Apps For Korea

In the world of Online Shopping Apps, South Korea offers a digital marketplace with options catering to every shopper’s needs. From fashion and electronics to groceries and unique Korean merchandise, these apps bring the convenience of Korea’s shopping culture directly to your fingertips.

Welcome to Coupang, South Korea’s most famous online shopping app, and the local Amazon alternative. With Coupang, it is like having a virtual mega mall in your pocket. With a massive selection, lightning-fast delivery, and incredible customer service, this app has revolutionized the shopping experience in South Korea.  Coupang’s exclusive deals and fast delivery ensure everything is at your doorstep in no time, whether you’re after the latest tech, K-beauty products, fashion, or late-night snacks. It goes way beyond convenience. In Korea, it is a lifestyle. Download Coupang today and see why it’s the app of choice for millions seeking Korea’s premium online shopping experience.

Download Coupang: iOS | Android

Step into the digital Gmarket, a vibrant marketplace where variety meets convenience. It is a powerhouse in South Korean online shopping and is often compared to eBay in other countries. You’ll find everything from the latest K-fashion and K-beauty products to electronics and groceries. Gmarket’s eclectic product mix, including Korean brands and international names, makes it stand out. It is user-friendly and makes your shopping experience a breeze. Gmarket brings the excitement of Korea’s bustling markets to your screen, offering exclusive deals and rare finds that cater to every taste and interest. If you’re an expat in Korea or a global shopper who loves Korean products, Gmarket is your one-stop shopping destination.

Download Gmarket: iOS | Android

Best Financial Services Apps For Korea

KakaoPay is revolutionizing digital transactions in South Korea. Think of it as your digital wallet – convenient, secure, and accepted almost everywhere across the country. Whether you are shopping online, splitting the bill at dinner, or paying for a taxi, it is easy with KakaoPay. It’s deeply integrated into the Kakao ecosystem to help you manage your finances easily through your Kakao account. You can easily link your debit or credit card to KakaoPay, streamlining payments directly from your smartphone. KakaoPay is not only about making payments. It is also about simplifying your financial life to allow you to enjoy your time in Korea.

Download KakaoPay: iOS | Android

Best Korean Entertainment Apps

Ready to immerse yourself in the heartbeat of Korean music? Well, Melon is South Korea’s premier music streaming service. It is like the Spotify of Korea, but with a strong focus on K-Pop and other Korean music genres. Melon is your go-to place to explore the latest hits, dive into indie tracks, or enjoy your favorite tunes. The intuitive interface offers personalized playlists and trending charts so you can always keep your finger on the pulse of what’s hot in the trending Korean music scene. Whether you’re a K-Pop Stan or new to the world of Korean music, Melon is your gateway to unlocking Korean music culture and connecting with a passionate and vibrant community of music lovers.

Download Melon: iOS | Android

Cultural Tips for Using Apps in Korea

Understanding the cultural nuances of app usage in Korea can significantly enhance your travel experience, whether living in Korea, just visiting, or talking to Korean friends from abroad. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Promptness in Communication:  In Korea, quick responses in apps like KakaoTalk are valued and considered polite. It’s common to reply promptly to messages, reflecting the fast-paced nature of Korean society.
• Embrace Emojis and Stickers:  Koreans often use emojis and stickers in messaging apps to express emotions and add a playful touch to conversations. Feel free to use them often to fit in with the local texting culture.
• Online Payments:  Mobile payments are widely accepted and expected in Korea. Apps like KakaoPay and Toss are commonly used for transactions, with Korean people strongly preferring digital payments over cash transactions.
• Privacy Settings : Koreans are generally cautious about privacy, and the apps for Korea reflect this. Ensure you understand and appropriately use the privacy settings in social media and communication apps.
• Group Chats and Social Etiquette:  Be mindful of social hierarchies and etiquette when in group chats. Respect and politeness are crucial, especially when interacting with elders or in a professional setting, so be sure to use formal language.
• Using Navigation Apps:  While driving, rely on local navigation apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMap for the most accurate and up-to-date traffic information. They are tailored to local road systems and conditions.
• Food Delivery Etiquette:  Leaving delivery instructions for a contactless experience is appreciated when using food delivery apps. Make sure to be specific about where to leave the food.
• Respecting Content on Entertainment Apps: Copyright laws are strictly enforced in Korea. When using entertainment apps, consider legal boundaries regarding content sharing and usage.

Understanding these cultural aspects of app usage will make your life easier in Korea and help you blend in more seamlessly with the digital local lifestyle.

Final Thoughts On Apps For Korea

Now that we’ve covered the 15 best apps to download before you go, it’s important to remember that these apps aren’t just digital tools. Instead, they’re your gateway to experiencing life in South Korea like a local. 

From navigating Seoul’s bustling streets with Naver Maps to enjoying local cuisine through Baemin, each app offers a unique aspect of Korean digital life. Also, from staying connected with friends via KakaoTalk to getting accurate translations with Papago, these English-friendly apps are designed to provide you with a deeply immersive Korean culture experience.

So, whether you’re an expat, traveler, or Korean culture lover, the above recommendations are apps that can help to make your Korean Dream Life easier, more enjoyable, and deeply connected. 

So download these apps from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in South Korea. Happy travels!

Further Reading on Korean Dream Life:

Are you interested in learning more about Korean Culture? Check out our comprehensive beginners guide to Korean culture to explore the magical world of the Korean wave and beyond.

What app to use for Korea?

The choice of app largely depends on your needs. Naver Maps is the go-to choice for local navigation, offering detailed directions and traffic information. For communication, KakaoTalk is essential and is the most popular messaging app in Korea. Apps like Baedal Minjok (Baemin) are popular for food delivery. Each category has a local Korean app favorite tailored to local preferences and lifestyles.

Which app is used in South Korea instead of Google?

In South Korea, the most popular alternative to Google is Naver. Naver is widely used as the leading search engine and offers services similar to Google, including maps, news, and even a question-answer platform. It provides higher-quality local results for Korea. Additionally, for messaging and social networking, KakaoTalk is the preferred app and is deeply integrated into the daily digital life of Koreans.

What social media app do they use in Korea?

In South Korea, KakaoTalk is the most widely used social media and messaging app. It’s an all-in-one platform for chatting, sharing photos and videos, and even making payments. Instagram is another popular social media platform that has also gained significant popularity among the younger generation in Korea.

What can I use instead of Google Maps in Korea?

In Korea, the most preferred alternative to Google Maps is Naver Maps. It offers more detailed and accurate information for navigating within the country. Another popular option is KakaoMap, known for its user-friendly interface and precise local data. Both apps are tailored to the Korean landscape, providing reliable directions and local insights for navigating Korean cities and countryside.

What app do I need for travel to Korea?

A few key apps can significantly enhance your experience for travel in Korea. Naver Maps or KakaoMap are essential for navigation, offering detailed directions and local insights. For public transportation in South Korea, KakaoMetro and KakaoBus are invaluable for navigating subway and bus routes. Additionally, apps like Papago for translation and KakaoTalk for communication are highly recommended to ease language barriers and stay connected.

What apps do you need in Seoul?

Navigating Seoul becomes much easier with the right set of apps for transportation, communication, dining, and overcoming language barriers with exploring Seoul. Essential apps include Naver Maps or KakaoMap for detailed navigation and location searches. KakaoMetro for Seoul’s subway system and offers route planning and schedules. KakaoBus is helpful for real-time bus route information and schedules. KakaoTalk is essential for communication and is widely used across Korea. Baemin is the best app for food delivery services in Seoul. Meanwhile, Papago is critical for translation to interact with locals.

What subway app to use in Korea?

KakaoMetro is highly recommended for navigating the subway system in Korea. It provides detailed information on subway routes, including accurate timetables, transfer options, and station layouts. The app covers all major cities in Korea and is user-friendly, making it an essential tool for both residents and visitors. Another option is the Seoul Metropolitan Subway app, specifically designed for the Seoul subway system, offering similar features emphasizing the capital’s extensive network.

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The Best Korea Travel Apps to Plan Your Perfect Trip

There are plenty of travel apps to help you plan and make the most of your upcoming trip to Korea. Seoul is a massive city with many outstanding landmarks and countless activities scattered throughout the city, and you will need a bit of help navigating your way around! Here are the best Korea travel apps to plan your trip to Seoul and all across the land of the morning calm.

Recommended Phone SIM Card and Pocket Wifi for South Korea

To be able to use these Korea travel apps mentioned below, you’ll need access to data. For most travelers coming to Korea the easiest and most cost-effective option is to either get a travel SIM card or rent a pocket wifi device.

Click on the links below to help you find the best pocket wifi or sim card for your trip to South Korea:

• South Korea 4G Pocket WiFi (KR Airports Pick Up)
• Global eSIM (immediately usable via QR code) by Xplori

Best Apps to Get Around in Seoul and other Cities

While Google Maps is a great navigation app in most countries, it does not work great in South Korea. This is because local laws prohibit the storage of topographical data on foreign-based servers. That’s why it’s best to rely on local map apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap. Both of them are also available in English and are one of the most useful Korea travel apps. 

Naver Map App

Android – iOS

This is the navigation app that I use most frequently. You can save places you want to visit later and it also works great for driving.

KakaoMap App

Kakao Maps is the most popular map app in Korea. It shows all available routes and schedules for public transportation and it’s easy to share routes and places with the Kakaotalk messaging app.

Subway Korea App

If you’re looking for a For a subway-specific app, I recommend Subway Korea. It works in 5 large cities in Korea: Seoul , Busan, Daejeon, Gwangju and Daegu.

Seoul Subway App

If you only travel to Seoul , you can use the Seoul Subway app to navigate the different subway lines in the city.

KakaoBus App

KakaoBus is an app to check city buses across Korea if you don’t want or can’t use the subway.

Kakao T App

Kakao T is great for calling taxis. This app finds available taxis in your vicinity and leads them straight to you. You can also pay directly via the app when you enter your payment information. It’s sort of like Korea’s Uber.

For traveling between cities by train, check out the Korail app. You can look up train schedules and book tickets. The only downside is you cannot book your seats if you have a Korail Pass.

To book train tickets in Korea, I can also recommend using the website Rail.Ninja .

The Best Translation App for South Korea

Even though English is a mandatory language in schools in Korea and many Koreans attend English language schools (hence the many English teaching jobs in South Korea ), many people do not speak English fluently.

The best translation app to use when traveling in Korea is Papago .  Papago is a multilingual machine translation service provided by Naver. Unlike many other translators, Papago uses a neural machine translation to learn from its mistakes and improve itself. 

The best feature of the Papago app is its image recognition. This means you can take a photo of a Korean restaurant menu or street sign and it will translate it into your desired language.

If you’d like to read some more about Korean, here are 20 helpful Korean travel phrases to know!

Apps To Help You Find Out What To do in Seoul and Korea

There are several handy apps to find activities, tours, and fun places to explore in Seoul and around Korea. My favorites are listed below:

I love the Klook app! It’s a super convenient way to book tours and other experiences for your South Korea trip! The app also works as your ticket, providing scannable QR codes for your experiences. Have a look at Linda Goes East’s recommended Korea tours and experiences on Klook here.

In a nutshell, Trazy is like Groupon for Asia. Similar to Klook, you can book tours and schedule activities in different cities around Korea and other parts of Asia. I recommend checking out both Klook and Trazy as they offer slightly different experiences.

Visit Korea App

This app was developed by the Korea Tourism Organisation and provides reliable travel information for South Korea. You can find details for individual attractions, search for accommodations, festivals, and even restaurants.

Visit Seoul App

This is Seoul Metropolitan Government’s official travel app. It’s great to make the most out of your trip to Seoul . Find popular tourist attractions, authentic restaurants, and the best hotels.

Other Useful Apps for Your Trip to Korea

We’ve covered navigation and public transportation apps, talked about translation apps and useful apps to find things to do in Korea. Now let’s have a look at some “nice-to-have” apps that can prove to be very helpful when traveling in Korea.

IQAir AirVisual

South Korea, and Seoul in particular, is infamous for having subpar air-quality days. For the locals, checking the air quality is as normal as checking the weather in the morning. This app will show you how bad the air quality is and if you should wear a mask to escape the fine dust.

Emergency Ready App

The Ministry of Public Safety and Security launched this app to inform foreign residents in Korea about various natural disasters. The government automatically sends alerts for earthquakes, blizzards, missing persons, and smartphones in Korea. This app translates these alerts to allow non-Korean speakers to be able to receive the messages as well.

XE Currency App

The currency used in South Korea is called the Korean Won. Download the XE Currency app to help you convert prices into your home currency to better understand the price of things.

 Get your Free Seoul City Check List

This downloadable checklist for Seoul contains insider information on what to see, do, eat and where to shop and party in Seoul , South Korea.

Pin it and save it for later!

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17 Great Apps for Traveling in South Korea

South Korea is famous for its K-pop, K-drama, and cosmetics. It is also a popular tourist destination with 24/7 convenience stores, outstanding landmarks, bustling shopping streets, and countless fun activities. Thanks to the advancement of technology, now traveling to Korea is much easier if you have the right applications on your phone.

So if you are planning a trip to the land of the morning calm, make sure to check out these 14 great apps that will help you make the most out of your trip!

Table of Contents

Apps Communication in South Korea

Kakao talk (카카오톡).

Android – iOS

Kakao Talk is the number one communication app in Korea. It has a diverse range of features and a cute chat interface. You can also buy a variety of chat emoticons on it. The app is no just for text messages or video calls, you can also send or receive files, share locations, and even pay with it!

Papago (파파고)

Papago is a Korean translation software that I recommend to every Korean learner. It provides translation between Korean and 10 languages including English. Papago belongs to Naver, the largest search engine in South Korea. Papago translates Korean much more accurately than google translate. It can definitely help you communicate with native Koreans more effectively.

If you are thinking about learning the Korean language , LingoDeer is your best choice. Whether you wish to just learn some travel phrases or dig deeper into the language, LingoDeer has something for you. It allows you to learn a variety of useful phrases  in a relatively short period of time. If you want to learn how to order at a restaurant, simple hello and goodbye, thank you, and other Korean that you may use during your trip, you must try it!

Apps that Help you Find out Where to go in South Korea

Naver map (네이버 지도).

Android  –  iOS

Google Maps or Apple Maps are not very useful when traveling in Korea. Naver Maps , like papago (Korean translator), was developed by Naver , the largest search engine company in Korea. It is available in multiple languages and has very comprehensive traffic navigation. Even for hiking, it has planned hiking routes! All the bus and subway information is in there, and with it, you don’t have to worry about getting lost in Korea at all!

Kakao Map (카카오 지도)

Kakao Map is also the choice of many people, and it belongs to the same company as Kakao Talk, the most used chat app in Korea! It’s similar to Naver Map, so you can choose between them!

Tips : In Korea, each subway gate will have a corresponding number, and both maps will show you on your subway navigation which subway gate you should wait at to be able to transfer or exit the station most easily and quickly!

I Tour Seoul (아이 투어 서울)

I Tour Seoul app is Seoul Metropolitan Government’s official travel app. If you plan to spend much time in Seoul, this app can save you a lot of time by providing popular tourist attractions, restaurants, and hotels in Seoul.

Visit Korea (한국 관광)

Visit  Korea app is quite an official tourist app developed by the Korea Tourism Organisation. You can find plenty travel information in the app, including events, tourist attractions, restaurants, accommodations, etc.

Apps for Transportation in South Korea

Kakao t(카카오 택시).

Uber is not quite popular in South Korea. So if you want to take a taxi, you should try its Korean counterpart – Kakao T. Kakao T is a must-have Korean taxi app that can be set up in multiple languages including English. You can choose from different rates and directly pay via the app when you’ve reached your destination.

Speaking of taking taxi, be sure to note that in South Korea, there are black cabs with much high prices than regular cabs! If you want to save money, don’t wave when you see a black cab.

Korail talk (코레일톡)

If you wish to travel by train, try Korail app.  Korail is a software to buy tickets for high-speed trains in Korea and supports many kinds of online payments. Transportation in Korea is very well developed and you can reach almost all inland cities by high-speed trains, and they are usually very punctual. Be sure to first get a Korail Pass before booking tickets on it.

Bustago (버스타고) 

Besides the high-speed train, another way to travel is by bus. Bus is a very comfortable option in Korea and it has a fixed price that does not change with the time or date. It has spacious seats, so you don’t have to worry even if you are traveling long distances. They have their own passing lanes on the road, so you don’t have to worry about traffic jams or being late at all!

Apps for Food Delivery in South Korea

Baemin (배달의민족).

Baemin is one of the most used delivery app in Korea for everything from gourmet food to all kinds of vegetables, fruits, and necessities. You can even order clothes, shoes, flowers, and more. It also newly added a live shopping function, from which you can order discounted food or other goods! The only downside is that it only supports the Korean language , which is not suitable for foreigners who don’t know Korean.

Yogiyo (배달요기요)

Yogiyo has basically the same features as Baemin. From my personal experience of using this app, I found it’s often cheaper than Baemin, giving away more discount coupons. You can order take-out from a wide variety of restaurants, from Korean, Chinese, Western, KFC, Mcdonalds, pizza, even dessert or coffee, you name it! And it supports both Korean and English ! So if you don’t know Korean, got with this app!

Coupang Eats (쿠팡 이즈)

Coupang Eats is another foreigner-friendly food delivery app. If you don’t speak Korean, I recommend you download it! By the way, new users are usually given discount coupons when they sign up, so don’t forget to use them when you pay! With so many 24-hour restaurants in Korea, you can even have your fried chicken with beer delivered at 3 am!

Apps for Accommodation in South Korea

Airbnb has made overseas accommodation booking so convenient. If you don’t have a Korean bank card, don’t speak Korean, and don’t have a Korean cell phone number, you can still easily book a room at a fair price with Airbnb. The app is also becoming more and more popular in South Korea, so you have plenty of choices when booking a room. Most residences in Korea use code door locks and the check-in time is very flexible.

Dabang (다방)

Android –  iOS   

If you wish to live for a longer period in South Korea, consider renting a room or apartment. Dabang is one of the apps that can help you rent in South Korea. You can filter rooms according to your own preferences and location. There is also third-party personnel that can help you complete the whole process. However, using Dabang can be quite hard if you speak zero Korean, because of all the false listings and potential scams.

Yanolja (야놀자)

Yanolja (야놀자) is one of the most commonly used accommodation booking app in South Korea. You can even book flight tickets on it. Sometimes they give various limited-time discounts. The disadvantage is that it does not support foreign bank card payments and English interface .

Yeogie-eottae ( 여기어때)

Yeogie-eottae (여기어때) is similar to Yanolja, but it also doesn’t support foreign bank card payment and English interface, and you can’t use foreign cell phone number to register, so if you live in Korea and speak fluent Korean, it’s a good app for hotel booking!

• 8 Best Korean Textbooks for Beginners 2023
• 10 Best Korean Movies to Watch and Learn Korean in 2023

Published by Ziqiao Xu

Ziqiao is a France-based multilingual who speaks English, Korean, French, and Chinese fluently. She persued a degree in Korean-French translation and is passionate about learning different languages. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and language learning experience with LingoDeer blog readers. View all posts by Ziqiao Xu

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9 Essential Apps for your South Korea Travel

Are you planning a trip to South Korea? Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned traveller, having the right apps can make your experience much more enjoyable. From transportation to food delivery, there are plenty of apps designed specifically for travellers visiting South Korea. Here are nine essential apps that you should have on your smartphone while travelling in South Korea.

I firmly urge you to investigate these apps and download them before your journey to South Korea so they are prepared when you arrive. All the Apps are available for Android and iPhones.

• Kakao Metro

1) Mango Plate

With Mango Plate, you can easily find the best places to eat nearby with just a few taps on your phone. The app allows users to search for restaurants by cuisine type and price range, as well as filter options like open now, delivery, take-out and more. You can also read reviews from other users who have tried out the restaurants listed in Mango Plate.

K-ETA Korea is an app that makes applying for a visa to South Korea much easier for you. It allows you to quickly and easily complete the application process and submit your documents in just a few steps. The app also provides comprehensive information about the required documents, eligibility criteria, and other important information related to the Korean visa application. Also it is nice that you can use the app to track the application status in real-time and receive notifications when their visa has been approved or rejected.

3) Yogiyo App

Yogiyo is a mobile food-delivery app that provides users with an easy and convenient way to order food. The app can be used to explore restaurants in your area, browse menus, read customer reviews, place orders, and even track deliveries.

4) Kakao Metro App

Kakao Metro App is an easy-to-use, convenient transportation app developed by Kakao Corp. It provides real-time information about the metro system in South Korea, allowing you to easily plan your travel route and check train schedules. With this app, you can quickly access the estimated arrival times of the trains and buses, plan their routes accordingly, and even find alternative means of transport. The app also allows you to purchase tickets for your desired destinations using a credit card or other payment methods. Additionally, Kakao Metro App features a variety of useful features such as maps of nearby attractions, searching for nearby restaurants, and providing general information about Seoul's subway lines.

5) Kakao Taxi App

Kakao Taxi App is a practical mobile application that makes it easy to book a taxi or car service. It has useful features like estimating the fare, altering pick-up time, and displaying the driver's details. Furthermore, this app gives you the ability to track your driver in real-time and find out when they will arrive. Payment can be done with either cash or credit card.

6) Kakao Talk

Kakao Talk is a complimentary mobile messaging service akin to WhatsApp or Line. The program is greatly popular in South Korea and is indispensable for communication with the inhabitants. Additionally, Kakao Talk integrates with a number of other Kakao services, such as Kakao Map and Kakao Pay, making it a convenient one-stop-shop for all their communication and transportation needs.

The Papago Translator App is a great resource for travellers who are looking for a free, easy to use and reliable translation service. It is similar to Google Translator in that it can translate between multiple languages and supports both text input and voice input. Papago even allows users to download language packs so they can access translations offline without an internet connection.

8) Kakao Map App

Kakao Map is a must-have app for navigating South Korea and exploring all that the country has to offer. With real-time traffic information, 3D maps, and comprehensive search capabilities, you can easily find your way to your destination and discover new places of interest along the way. Whether you're looking for restaurants, hotels, or shops, Kakao Map has detailed information and reviews to help you make informed decisions. The app also provides estimated time of arrival and public transportation routes, making it a convenient tool for getting around South Korea. Overall, Kakao Map is an essential app for anyone looking to make the most of their travel experience in South Korea.

9) Naver Map App

Naver Map, similar to Kakao Map, offers accurate maps and directions for South Korea. The app provides you with turn-by-turn voice guidance, real-time traffic information, public transportation routes, and points of interest such as restaurants, tourist attractions and more. Naver Map also offers detailed 3D map views, street view images and satellite imagery to help users better understand their surroundings. With its comprehensive functionality and reliable navigation features, the Naver Map App is an invaluable tool for both travellers and locals alike.

Why use Naver Map or Kakao Map instead of Google Map in South Korea?

• Localized information: Both Naver Map and Kakao Map offer more localized information and features specific to South Korea, such as detailed information on local businesses, public transportation routes, and real-time traffic updates.
• Language support: Naver Map and Kakao Map are available in Korean, which may be more convenient for users who are not fluent in English.
• Integration with other services: Both Naver Map and Kakao Map integrate with other popular services in South Korea, such as Naver Search and KakaoTalk, respectively. This can make them more convenient for users who are already using these services.
• Data privacy: Some users in South Korea may prefer to use Naver Map or Kakao Map over Google Map due to concerns about data privacy and the potential for Google to collect and use their personal data

Why doesn't Google Maps work well in South Korea?

Google Maps does not work well in South Korea due to the country’s stringent security policies and restrictions . Under the provisions of the Korean Spatial Information Management Act, the export of internal Korean geographic data to foreign countries is prohibited. Google had not declared their intention to comply with this stipulation, so the Korean Government refused to provide complete local geographic information to them. As a result, Google cannot access the necessary GIS data in order to create a detailed map of South Korea.

Additionally, Google Maps requires an internet connection to operate, but South Korea has some of the strictest online censorship laws in the world. This limits access to certain websites, such as Google Maps, that are deemed inappropriate or dangerous by the government. Furthermore, many users have reported slow loading times and difficulty accessing certain features when using Google Maps in South Korea due to limited bandwidth availability and blocked servers.

Before my South Korea trip, I extensively researched and personally experienced the essential travel apps.

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10 Best Apps To Use In Korea

In this article, we have collated our top suggestions for the best apps to use in Korea.

Travelling in South Korea without these apps can be confusing and overwhelming, but thankfully, these handy Korean travel apps will make your trip completely stress-free.

So, let’s dive into: 10 Best Apps to download for Travelling in Korea

Disclaimer - this blog post contains affiliate links where we can earn a commission if you make a purchase through them (at no extra cost to you).

Hyangwonjeong Pavilion - Gyeongbokgung Palace

Essential Apps to Download to Use in Korea

South Korea is one of our favourite countries we’ve ever visited. It boasts an incredible wealth of fascinating Confucian culture, distinctive cuisine, modern architecture and K-pop stars. 

For English-speaking travellers, however, the country can be confusing to navigate as most signage throughout Korea is, you guessed it, in Hangul Korean writing. To add to the confusion, Google Maps famously doesn’t work in Korea as Google refuses to store their satellite data of the country in Korea, so the real-time navigation feature on the app doesn’t work. 

So, when you mix together a lack of English signage and no Google Maps, you can see how it can become quite tricky to travel around South Korea if you’re unprepared.

Thankfully for you, though, we have created this list of the best apps for travelling in South Korea so you will know exactly which apps you should be downloading before visiting the Korean peninsula.

Bonus Top Tip: To use these apps, you will need a reliable Korean SIM Card, so here are our guides on how to buy a SIM Card perfect for Tourists in Seoul Incheon Airport and the best eSIM for South Korea .

Discover Seoul Pass

The Discover Seoul Pass gives you free or discounted access to 100+ attractions throughout the greater Seoul area. This is particularly great for those on a quick 1-day, 2-day or 3-day trip to Seoul because it allows you to pay for all the attractions up front (by purchasing the pass), and then you can visit as many attractions as possible in the given time. 

You can buy a 24, 48 or 72-hour pass depending on your personal travel itinerary. If you purchase the Discover Seoul Pass via Klook , you can use the app to check which attractions you can visit and view discounts on transport throughout Korea. 

Alternatively, purchasing the pass directly through the Discover Seoul Pass app will generate a QR code with a timer so you know exactly how long you have left to use your pass. 

Some attractions you can visit for free using the Discover Seoul Pass are Gyeongbokgung Palace , Changdeokgung Palace and the N Seoul Tower .

Click here to download the Discover Seoul Pass app on Android  

Click here to download the Discover Seoul Pass app on iOS

Naver Maps  

With a lack of Google Maps, it is essential to find a reliable alternative for navigating your way around Korea - particularly in the densely packed streets of Seoul. 

One of the best options we found was Naver Maps. The app can be used in Korean, Chinese, Japanese or English and is very simple to master. 

Once you’ve downloaded the app, trigger the English setting, and then all you have to do is type your destination at the top, and it will show you the way. 

What we found helpful when using Naver Maps was copying and pasting the Korean address you’re heading to instead of the English version. Naver Maps tends to be much more reliable when given the Korean version of an address. 

Our favourite feature of Naver Maps is the ability to choose which public transport you want to take, and the app will even give you live updates on how long you’ll be standing on the platform. 

Click here to download Naver Maps on Android

Click here to download Naver Maps on iOS

Kakao Maps  

An alternative app to use in Korea is Kakao Maps. For all intents and purposes, it works exactly the same as Naver Maps and it really just comes down to your preference in terms of which app works best for you. 

Kakao Maps comes from the creators of KakaoTalk, the highly popular messaging platform in Korea. Kakao Maps was released in the early 2010s and has grown to become one of the most popular navigation apps in the country. 

As with Naver, Kakao Maps allows you to choose between different transport options and provides live updates on the subway, trains and buses. 

A feature that is perhaps more advanced on Kakao Maps is the street-view option as it is kept up-to-date more often than Naver, resulting in a more realistic view of the streets you’re going to be visiting. 

Click here to download Kakao Maps on Android

Click here to download Kakao Maps on iOS

Is Naver Maps or Kakao Maps better in Korea?

Honestly, there is nothing to choose between them. Both apps are able to help you navigate through Korea, and it really just comes down to your personal preference. We recommend downloading both apps and playing around with them to decide which one you prefer for your Korea trip. 

Top tip: neither app is perfect for the initial trip from the airport into Seoul city centre, so we recommend you find out how to get from Seoul Incheon Airport to Seoul City Centre before arriving in Korea, and then figure out how to use the apps once you’re at your accommodation in the city.

Kakao T (Formerly Kakao Taxi)  

If you ever want to get a taxi in South Korea, your best option is to download Kakao T. It is an excellent app for booking a taxi, finding nearby parking spaces and providing live traffic updates throughout the country. 

The best thing about using Kakao T is that you don’t have to communicate in broken Korean to let the driver know where you want to go. Instead, you put the address into the app, choose how you want to pay, and wait until your driver arrives. It’s simple. 

Kakao T is like the Uber app but only found in South Korea. It is a no-brainer and definitely a great app to use in Korea. 

Click here to download Kakao T on Android

Click here to download Kakao T on iOS

Unless you are fluent in Korean, it is likely that you’ll need to utilise a translation app at some point during your South Korea adventure.

Korea’s answer to this is Papago, the translation app that can be used to translate 13 different languages instantly. Understandably, the majority of the time in Korea you are going to need a real-time translation of Korean into English, and Papago can give you exactly that. 

One of the ways we found Papago to be most helpful was when we needed to translate menus in restaurants. You can use the app to take a photo of the menu page and it will produce the translation right there and then. 

Obviously, as with any translation app, Papago isn’t 100% perfect and can sometimes lead you to think you’re ordering one dish when it turns out you’ve received something different entirely. 

As translation apps go, however, Papago is very handy and a great addition to the apps you need to use when travelling in South Korea.

Click here to download Papago on Android

Click here to download Papago on iOS

Google Translate 

Unlike Google Maps, Google Translate definitely does work in Korea, and it certainly comes in handy when you’re trying to figure out the meanings of signs and menus throughout the country. 

Our favourite feature of Google Translate, which we have used in many countries outside of Korea, too, is the ability to download a language onto the app. Once you’ve downloaded the language, you no longer need to have an internet connection or wifi to be able to produce a live translation. 

This feature of Google Translate is probably at its most useful when travelling by Subway in Seoul. The internet connection is patchy on the subway, so taking a photo of a Subway sign and automatically having a live translation is super helpful. 

Click here to download Google Translate on Android

Click here to download Google Translate on iOS

Is Papago or Google Translate better in Korea?

This is a really tricky one to answer and it may come down to personal preference once again. Something to bear in mind, however, is that neither app is 100% accurate because language is so unique and complex. 

There is a trail of thought that suggests Papago is better to use in Korea as the app focuses on fewer languages, meaning it can adapt and tweak the translations more often. In contrast, Google Translate constantly tries to improve its service with hundreds of different languages. 

As with the Kakao Maps vs. Naver Maps debate, we recommend downloading both Papago and Google Translate and simply deciding which is better based on your personal preference.

KorailTalk 

KorailTalk is a great app to download when you need to reserve and book train tickets in Korea. 

When you’re travelling throughout Korea, it can be pretty confusing at times to work out the train times and fares because, more often than not, the information will be in Korean, and it can be tricky to find the English translation button at the counters.

To overcome this challenge, we’d recommend downloading KorailTalk and booking all your tickets through the app instead. For example, if you’re wondering how to get from Seoul to Busan , we recommend the high-speed KTX Train. You can buy this ticket on the KorailTalk app and jump straight on the train. 

Click here to download KorailTalk app on Android

Click here to download KorailTalk app on iOS

Subway Korea 

Let’s face it: riding the subway system in any country in the world can be relatively confusing if you’re not familiar with it. Do you take the Eastern or Western Line? Do you have to buy a ticket or use contactless? What zone is this station in?

To simplify things in Korea, the Subway Korea app is designed to relieve all those everyday stressors. The app provides live subway information in English and lets you know exactly which train you should take, in which direction and from what station. 

One of our favourite app features is that it even gives you recommendations for what end of the train to sit at, so you’re closest to the nearest exit you need once you get off the train - it’s a lifesaver in Seoul!

Subway Korea is one of the handiest apps to download if you’re new to the Seoul area and the surrounding cities. 

Click here to download the Subway Korea app on Android  

Click here to download the Subway Korea app on iOS

While travelling in Korea, you will undoubtedly be searching for some amazing activities and events to occupy your time. 

For precisely this reason, we recommend downloading the Klook app. Klook is the one-stop-shop when it comes to tours, activities, tickets and events in South Korea. 

While in the Western Hemisphere, organisations like Viator and GetYourGuide often dominate the tours and activities market, in East Asia, there is one clear market leader, and that is Klook. 

Not only can you buy organised tours and transport tickets with Klook, but you’re also able to book accommodation directly through the app. It really covers everything you need for travelling in South Korea. 

Whether you’re looking for the best day trips from Seoul , or finding out how to visit the Korean DMZ , it is likely that Klook will be able to provide the answer. 

Click here to download the Klook app on Android

Click here to download the Klook App on iOS

Another viable option for booking tours and activities in South Korea is Trazy . We like to suggest using Trazy and Klook, despite them providing very similar tours, because it’s always good to double-check both to see which is the best value for money. 

We’re all about saving money when we travel, so being able to compare the prices between tour companies is only ever a good thing. 

You may potentially find that Trazy offers different activities in South Korea that Klook doesn’t offer, and vice-versa. So, it’s always best to download both apps just to be sure. 

Arguably, the best feature of Trazy is their ‘Trazy Point’ system. Every time you book an activity, leave a review or upload a photo of your experience, you gain Trazy Points, which can be used to book excursions in the future. 

We appreciate that Trazy isn’t very popular outside of Korea, so if you plan to use your Trazy points, we suggest you buy all your tours through Trazy and earn points quickly rather than swapping between Trazy and Klook.

Click here to download the Trazy app on Android

Click here to download the Trazy App on iOS

There we have it, folks, our conclusive round-up of the best apps to use in Korea. Travelling around South Korea remains one of the best adventures we’ve ever had over the years and it was made all the smoother thanks to these handy apps for Korea travel.

Seoul, South Korea, is routinely voted one of the world’s most walkable cities - but how walkable is Seoul in reality? In this article, we discuss how easy it is to walk around Seoul.

Searching for the best things to do in Busan? Look no further! This is the ultimate guide to exploring South Korea's breathtaking coastal gem.

Keep reading to discover a step-by-step guide for how you can buy a Korean SIM card suitable for foreigners in Seoul Incheon Airport.

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• August 17th, 2022

The 6 Best Apps for Your Korea Travel in 2022

Photo of Cheonggyecheon by Pixabay

Welcome to South Korea! With our smartphones, international travel can be much easier and more helpful. There are many apps that you can use while traveling to Korea, but the UoH team has selected the essential apps that we think are the most useful. Let’s get started.

1. PAPAGO – AI Translator for Translation

Papago is a translation app developed by the Korean company called ‘Naver Corporation’ that supports 13 languages (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified/Traditional), Spanish, French, Vietnamese, Thai, Indonesian, Russian, German and Italian).

Not only foreign travelers but also the Koreans love to use this app because it can translate texts, images, voices, conversation (simultaneously speak in each other’s language when talking one-on-one with a foreigner) and handwritten words. It is pretty accurate, especially in Korean, so we recommend you to definitely download this one while traveling to Korea — whether that is a personal trip or a business trip.

For instance, one of the amazing features of the app is the image recognition feature. You can simply take a photo of a Korean restaurant menu or street sign and it will translate it into your selected language.

By the way, papago means a parrot with language abilities.

*FYI – if your country’s language is not one of the 13, we recommend you to use Google Translation. The Korean language is pretty accurate there too.

• Download iOS: LINK
• Download Android : LINK

2. Naver Map for Searching Locations & Places

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We all know how useful Google Map is when traveling to new places. Koreans love to actively use Google Search, YouTube and many services that Google provides, but Google Map is an exception — it simply does NOT work well in Korea. We will write another post soon to talk about this.

When traveling to Korea, we highly suggest downloading Naver Map. They offer English versions and up-to-date location information along with other features like route, navigation, and public transportation information. Also, you can pin places just like Google Map to make up your own list!

3. Subway Korea for Public Transportation

In Korea, traveling via subway is the easiest and best way to navigate the cities. There are many buses, but they tend to be more complicated and difficult to transfer compared to the subway. Especially in Seoul, one of the cities with the best subway system, you can go pretty much everywhere.

Subway Korea is a must-download free app that supports the English version. You can enjoy real-time transit information, bookmarks for frequently-used routes/stations, and more.

Besides Seoul, this app also offers information on other major cities that have subway lines, like Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon.

4. Kakao T for Taxi Services

Kakao T is a Korean transportation service app. This app is widely used in Korea and the service provides taxi-hailing, designated driver booking, nearby parking space search, real-time traffic information, and more. Maybe you will need to take a taxi on certain occasions, so we recommend you to download this app!

5. Korail Talk for Traveling Outside of Seoul

Korail Talk provides Korail train ticket reservation services in English. Korail (The Korea Railroad Corporation) is the national railway operator in South Korea. You can travel to different provinces of Korea via the railroads.

• Download iOS : LINK

6. Coupang Eats for Food Delivery

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You know that Korea is big for food delivery. When you travel to Korea, we recommend you to experience a food delivery service that many Koreans enjoy in daily lives. There are many food delivery platforms in Korea, but we would like to recommend one of the newest and easiest food delivery apps named Coupang Eats.

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Must-have Apps For Visiting South Korea

Having trouble finding useful information in korea try out these creatrip recommended apps.

It can be tough if you travel around Korea without making the right preparations. That's why Creatrip is here to introduce some useful apps that will definitely help you travel more conveniently in Korea! Here is a list of all the best apps you'll want to download for your trip to Korea!

1. Creatrip App

On the Creatrip app, you can access travel information, book appointments, check the exchange rate, order delivery, apply for you K-ETA, and much more! Anything and everything you want to do in Korea can be done through this one app! You're going to want to have this app on hand to enjoy the full experience of Korea!

You're definitely going to want to visit all the best restaurants and pretty cafes here in Korea, right? Check our app for a list of coupons and discounts to all the best restaurants and cafes! We've even visited these places for you so you can read a full review before heading over. Don't pay full price at these places – get a discount with Creatrip!

Here is a list of services provided by Creatrip (links included):

• Korea Travel Guides
• K-ETA Proxy Service
• Delivery Service
• Today's Exchange Rate
• Activity Reservations/Ticket Booking
• Korean Language School
• Shopping: Korean Products

Download the Creatrip App here!

If you want to stay fully updated and get more useful information about Korea, you can follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook! We are constantly updating our page with Korean news, cafes, and other useful info for traveling. Click on the links below to follow us and keep track of all the latest issues in Korea! 

2. Naver Map App

This app is a necessity if you want to get around Korea easily. It not only helps you find your destination and navigate roads, but also keeps track of the arrival time of all the public transportation in Korea. You can easily see when the bus or subway is arriving, and it even tells you how busy that specific vehicle is. It even gives recommendations for nearby restaurants and cafes, and has tons of reviews and photos for reference! Trust me, this is the most accurate one that you can find in Korea, and it is super helpful.

One more good thing about this app is that it is available in multiple languages: English, Chinese, and Japanese. You can  change the language in the settings . Your time in Korea will be so much easier with this helpful buddy!

Keep in mind that some of the translated addresses might be outdated, so if you can, we highly recommend you to type the address in Korean. On the Creatrip app, we provide the business address of the shops in Korean, so you can just copy and paste it into Naver Map. This way, you'll have the most accurate address and won't be a lost child in a foreign country.

One more great feature is that you can access   the most recent street view of  Korea using the Naver Map app. You can see what the actual place you're heading to looks like beforehand so it'll be easier to spot once you arrive!

You can see which way you're facing in the smaller map below. This way, it's less confusing to try and find your way through the streets in Korea. There's also the Kakao Map app , which has basically all the same features and functions listed above. You can try both and see which one you prefer!

Download Naver Map or Kakao Map here!

3. Subway Korea

Subway Korea is the best Korean subway app that provides the subway system map in five major cities, and also includes timetables, road maps, and pit stops. All you have to do is select the departure station and station you wish to arrive at, and the app will calculate the best route by the fastest route or the route with the least amount of transfers. It is super helpful when getting around in Korea by subway! 

Here is an example using the Seoul metro system. As you can see, you can see all the subway lines and easily find your route just by selecting the starting and ending point. Subway Korea is not only super easy to use, but it also provides transfer info, fares, and the estimated time of travel. It completely simplifies the complicated-looking subway system!

The best part about this app is that it shows your ETA, as well as the times for the last bus/subway. If you are planning on staying out late in Korea, this is going to be really useful. It also shows the times for every stop, and which door to exit out of! Subway Korea will help you travel around any big city easily and quickly. We highly recommend you download it!

 Download  Subway Korea here!

4. Naver Papago

Papago, which is operated by Naver, is the most commonly used translation system in Korea, along with Google Translate.

It supports many languages, and the translation is quite accurate. The Korean-English translations are the most accurate, so I recommend using Papago over Google Translate. 

The app even has a camera function, which is very useful if you want to read road signs or menus. 

Download Naver Papago here!

5. NAMANE Card App

Tired of carrying all your cash around and losing track of how much you've been spending? With the NAMANE Card, you can now have your very own debit card in Korea! Not only does it function as a transportation card like T-money (subway, bus, etc.), but you can also use it at restaurants, stores, cafes, etc.! NAMANE is a pre-paid, customizable card that can be recharged easily through the app. NAMANE is only available online through Creatrip!

You can customize the card with any photo/design you choose, and check your balance and purchase history on the app! It is a must-have if you're visiting Korea, as the amount of stores switching to a no-cash policy has been increasing. For a more detailed overview of the NAMANE Card and how to use it, read our blog here . To purchase a NAMANE Card online, click here .

Download the NAMANE App here!

6. T Locker App

A big part of traveling to Korea is all the shopping you can do! The issue that most travelers seem to face with this is carrying around all those heavy shopping bags or dragging around luggage that you don't want to carry. The good news is, Korea has a locker system operated by T Locker where you can store your things for a quite reasonable price. 

There are lockers located all around Seoul, mostly in the subway stations. If you use the app, you can see every T Locker location and even see how many lockers are left and how much it will cost. You can even reserve a locker space beforehand if you pay on the app! For more details on T Locker, read our blog post here . 

Download the T Locker app here!

7. BucaCheck App

Do you have a transit card from before that you're not sure has any balance left? With the BucaCheck app, you don't have to make a trek to a top-up machine or take the risk of not having enough on your card; you can simply find out with this app! You can constantly check your balance by scanning your transit card through the app. Just make sure that your phone meets with specifications and has the NFC function (sharing of data) in order to use it. 

Download the BucaCheck App here!

We hope this guide to all the best apps was helpful to you! With these apps, you'll have no trouble making your way around Korea. If you have any questions or concerns, please leave a comment below or send us an email at  [email protected] ! You can follow us on  Instagram ,  TikTok , and  Facebook  to stay updated on all things Korea!

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The Best Apps for Korea Travel: Which Ones I Use and the Ones I Don’t

Wondering what best apps for Korea travel are? These are the ones I actually use while I’m in the country.

Anyone who’s been or lived in Korea knows that most of the apps and sites you’re used to using won’t work well or at all here. Want to try calling a Lyft or Uber? Good luck! You won’t see a car pop up ever. Google Maps? As far as I know, it hasn’t been updated since 2009.

You basically need to download a whole set of new apps when you visit just to navigate and get around. I thought I’d share the ones I  actually use, some general or fun ones, and tell you why I don’t bother with a bunch I’ve seen listed on the web.

(PS don’t judge my battery life on these screenshots!)

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7 of the Best Apps for Korea Travel

Papago translator.

When I’m really lazy, I’ll sometimes use a butchered translation on Google Translate, and when I’m studying Korean, I reference Naver’s dictionary. However, while I was trying to Google translate something once, one of my students told me I should try downloading Papago , which is much more accurate for Korean translations.

And he was right! Papago works much more smoothly with Korean-English, so if you want something to help you communicate with locals, this is the app you want instead of any other translation app you’ve been using!

I’ll live and die by Kakao Map, and I’m sure if you’ve read any of my other posts here, you’ve seen me mention it multiple times! Don’t even bother with Google Maps (Google hasn’t been allowed to map the country since 2009), and Naver Maps is far less detailed from my experience.

Now, Uber and Lyft are actually totally illegal here because the taxi game is so strong. Instead, if you want to get a taxi ASAP, use KakaoTaxi to find one. It basically works the same as Uber or Lyft, but you’ll still deal with a meter vs. knowing how much you’re paying upfront.

Subway Korea

The easiest way to get around Seoul! It’ll even tell you which car is the best to get in and out of the subway.

This is nice to see what bus numbers you need anywhere in the country. Suncheon has a specific one with Yeosu and Gwangyang , so I only ever used this once in Seoul, but it might be helpful for you!

If you’re planning on using Airbnb or doing any sort of tour, every single Korean I’ve met has and prefers to communicate via Kakao Talk. I’d have it downloaded just in case you need it for communication. It’s more useful that WhatsApp here!

You can also use it for Wonderful and Butler Korea, which are sort of courier type services, but I’ve never used either of them, so I can’t speak to their usefulness or value.

Yogiyo (배달요기요)

Before there was GrubHub and Uber Eats, there was Yogiyo (I think). Korean delivery has always been lightyears ahead of the US in terms of ease and cost, and Yogiyo is the best. You can literally pin your place on a map, so if you’re in a park or something, the delivery guy can still find you! I used this too many times for fried chicken.

Other General Travel Ones:

• XE Currency Calculator –  Good if you’re trying to figure out your budget in different currencies. I hardly ever used it because the US Dollar is roughly 1,000 KRW, so the conversion is easy for me.
• Trail Wallet –  If you’re the kind of person who’s good at tracking your budget, then something like Trail Wallet is best for you. I am not that kind of person, so I rely on my credit card statements. *cough*
• Apps for your booking sites –  Booking.com , Airbnb , etc. I always like having them downloaded because it’s easier to see your accommodation laid out vs. trying to track things down via email.
• WhatsApp Messenger –  Or Facebook Messenger . Something to keep in touch with friends and family at home while you’re traveling.
• Line Webtoon –  I have this one webtoon that is still being translated into English, called “Cheese in the Trap.” If you like a good manga, you might like Korea’s take on webtoons. I haven’t tried any other besides that one, and I love it.
• Viki –  For you K-drama lovers ;)

Apps that Exist but I’ve Never Used:

• Mangoplate (망고플레이트)  – I think this is for restaurant reviews? But I just skim reviews and look at photos on KakaoMap.
• CGV – You can use these for movie times, but I feel like this is more for expats and locals, not travelers. Plus any time I’ve wanted to look up the time, I just looked it up on their website.
• AirVisual Air Quality – This is for seeing air quality outside because sometimes the dust is  bad . However, this is another one that I feel is more for locals and expats than travelers. Plus, I like to think a little ignorance goes a long way. I lived through the yellow dust three times over, and while it sucks some days, you’ll be fine. Get one of those face masks if it really bothers you.
• Waze – My friend used this for driving in Korea because she can’t read Hangul, but for most rental cars, you can use their built-in navigation which is in English
• Visit Korea App – A general travel app that I didn’t know existed until I looked up apps to make sure I could cover everything here! I’m not sure how useful it is, but I’ll try it out next time I visit. Mostly, I just figure things out on KakaoMap or I’ll use Visit Korea’s actual site.
• NAVER Korean Dictionary – You won’t use it unless you’re, like, hardcore studying Korean. I barely used it even when I was! Instead, Papago is much easier, especially if you’re just traveling.
• Naver Map – I like Kakao’s better. It’s more detailed with street names and such. I know because when I had my students do a mini-project on giving me directions using the maps on their phone, the ones with Naver struggled way more than the ones with Kakao
• Line – I feel like the Line app was Naver’s attempt at competing with Kakaotalk. Of every Korean, I’ve ever talked to from friends to coworkers to random BnB hosts… I’ve met maybe one person who uses it semi-regularly. And even with her, we just texted normally since she didn’t like Kakaotalk
• Korail / Bustago /Etc  – I mean, it’s kind of extra. You can just use the browser in English to book your tickets, use the desktop version, or get them in person.

And there you have it! All the apps I use and don’t use for travel to Korea. Next time I visit, I’ll keep my eye on any new ones that might be helpful.

Let me know what apps you think I’m missing!

If you’re traveling to Korea for the first time, check out my South Korea travel tips post and join my Facebook group !

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First-Timer’s Ultimate South Korea Travel Guide – Things to Know Before Traveling to South Korea

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Before making your travel plans South Korea, check out this South Korea travel guide that will help you in finalizing your travel itinerary!

South Korea is a country of juxtaposition. You can find serene mountain valleys bumping against pulsing lights and rush of 24-hour cities. Korean tradition collides with ultra-modern fashion and design. To experience the depth and vibrancy of the country, you must see the serene countryside as well as rapidly changing cities. 

There is something for everyone in the country, whether you like city-life, mountains, beaches, or anything in between. Planning can become a bit difficult as there is so much to see and do in South Korea. 

Traveling to a new country like South Korea can be very exciting. It’s a whole new adventure waiting for you, but the entire planning and going to a different country can be a bit distressing. The culture, the people, and the laws governing the country are probably very different from where you are from. This is why we have compiled a guide for you of what to expect when you visit South Korea for the first time. 

Table of Contents

South Korea Travel Guide

Most travelers do not need to get a visa to travel to South Korea. You can check the visa requirements on your country’s State Department website. Citizens from many countries have visa-free entry for a limited period under certain conditions. To check whether you can enter Korea without a visa issuance, please contact a Korean Embassy or consular offices in your country or visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to confirm.

There are some changes to visa requirements for Jeju Island in lieu of COVID-19 situation worldwide.

The local language is Korean, and it script is Hangeul. But there is no need to worry! There are lots of signs in and around the city in English as well. A lot of restaurant menus also include translations of main dish ingredients. 

You can always learn a little Korean before you travel from apps like Duolingo . The locals are definitely going to appreciate your efforts! 

Money Matters

The official currency of South Korea is ‘ Korean Won .’ Most places accept credit cards too. Small stores and mom-n-pop food outlets generally accept cash only.  

Getting around in South Korea is very easy. There are domestic airlines, trains, and intercity buses. It’s easy to move around within the country. Even intercity travel is very convenient with all the available public transportation. 

We have covered transportation in detail in the guide about understanding Korean culture. 

Travel Apps

For first time travelers to South Korea, travel Apps are handy and can be useful as guide. The train and bus maps might look complicated, but you can use maps with English translations. Apps like KAKAO Maps and Naver Maps are especially for use in South Korea and are the preferred travel Apps. For more traveling tips, you can download the VisitKorea App. It can provide you with suggestions regarding food, tourist destinations, and many more. 

Read More: 10 Best Apps for South Korea Trip You Must Download

There are quite a number of public toilets wherever we go, and they are generally clean. If you can’t find one right away, you can search in any of the travel map Apps “화장실,” which means toilet in Korean. On the other hand, it is challenging to find dustbins around, so you may have to carry your trash for quite a distance before you find one bin.

Read More: Understanding Korean Culture: Hygiene Culture in South Korea

South Korea has four distinct seasons — Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Each season has something unique to offer visitors to the country, but depending on what you want out of your Korean experience, sometimes are better to travel than others. The best time of year to visit South Korea is generally the spring months of April, May & June, and the autumn months of September, October & November. During these two seasons, days are typically sunny and dry with comfortable average temperatures.

Read More: South Korea Travel Guide – When is The Best Time of Year to Visit South Korea?

Drinking-Water

Tap water in South Korea is drinkable. If you are not comfortable with it, you can purchase bottles of water from convenience stores or vending machines. 

Accommodation  

No matter what your budget is, you will find amazing places to stay during your trip to Korea. You can stay anywhere, ranging from a youth hostel to a luxurious hotel. For a unique cultural experience, you can also arrange a homestay like hanok stay via the Korea Tourism Organization. 

Tour and Travel Services

Some places are only accessible with a tour guide or a tour bus to bring you around. The added benefit is that you can relax on the bus while you are going from one destination to the next. 

Internet Connectivity

South Korea is a well-connected country. Wherever you are, you will have access to mobile data and public Wi-Fi. Did you know that you can get free WiFi in most of the buses in Seoul? 

Read More: Korean Sim Card Guide for All the Travelers

Most tourists are familiar with Korean barbeque and look forward to having the authentic dish right from the source. You can find it in abundance no matter where you go in Korea! To avoid any goof-ups in restaurants, you can check out our restaurant guide . You can also check out the post on Netflix-fame street food places. 

Read More: What to Eat in Seoul – Best Korean Food

Shopping Tips

The prices are pretty much fixed in stores. Most store owners hardly speak in English, even in tourist places. You won’t face such problems in popular shopping areas with big brand stores. Some of the shopping places in Seoul include Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, Common Ground , and many others. 

Read More: 10 Exquisite Handmade Gifts You Can Buy in Seoul

Travel During COVID-19

The South Korean government raised the coronavirus disease threat alert level to its highest on February 23, 2020. Many attractions have been temporarily closed, and festivals have been postponed or canceled throughout the country. Travelers are recommended to check the attractions’ official website before visiting. 

Korea aggressively maps and tracks infected cases. Self-quarantine is strictly monitored and enforced. The country also prohibits individuals who have been in contact with confirmed cases from exiting Korea during the day 14-day self-quarantine period. Korea provides advanced medical care to confirmed patients. The treatment is free-of-charge for both Koreans and foreign nationals. 

The KCDC has urged everyone to participate in an enhanced social distancing campaign for the next 15 days (March 22 – April 5). The KCDC strongly recommended that all non-urgent international travel plans be canceled or postponed. Persons who are unable to avoid traveling for a critical reason are advised to refrain from visiting any enclosed facilities or healthcare facilities.

Starting March 22, the KCDC is conducting COVID-19 diagnostic testing for every inbound traveler entering from Europe. Asymptomatic Korean nationals (with domestic residence) will be directed into self-quarantine at home and get tested at their local public health center within 3 days of arrival. Foreigners will be quarantined at the facility and tested. 

Apps to Track COVID-19 in South Korea

You can use a locally developed App like ‘Corona 100m,’ which, as its name implies, alerts users if they breach a 100-meter (328-foot) radius of the latest tracked whereabouts of the coronavirus patient. The person using the app can see how close they are to coronavirus patients. It also allows people to see the date that a coronavirus patient was confirmed to have the disease, along with that patient’s nationality, gender, age, and where the patient visited. It was launched on February 11 and had a million downloads in the first 17 days.

‘Corona Map’ is another such app that tracks the locations of people know to have COVID-19. Like Corona 100m, Corona Map plots the places where people known to have had COVID-19 have been, to make avoiding these areas easier. 

These are some of the essentials that you need to know before making your travel plans to South Korea and this travel guide will be helpful in making your itinerary!

KoreaTravelPost Editor

Hello there! I'm the Features Editor for KoreaTravelPost.

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Top 5 Map and Navigation Apps in Korea

Seoul is the fifth-largest city in the world so, for first-time visitors, it may seem a bit daunting. However, don’t be intimidated by the city’s vast urban area. Navigation apps in Korea make life very simple. 

Whether you’re moving to Korea or simply visiting, it’s smart to look at navigation apps. In theory, Seoul is pretty well-organized. Resources like the Seoul City bus tour help familiarize you with the locality. 

However, if you get lost, it’s difficult to navigate your way out. Most people don’t speak English, so you have to rely on navigation apps in Korea. 

These apps will help you organize your routes and reach your destination without getting lost. In this way, you can easily explore the city.  

What are the five best map and navigation apps in Korea? Let’s take a look. 

Google Maps

Google Maps is pretty much universal. It’s the most widely used navigation app in the world. So, of course, it’s also available in South Korea.

There are a few pros to using Google Maps. 

Firstly, it’s familiar. You probably use Google Maps in your home country. Therefore, you know how it works and what to do. 

If you’ve used it before, you don’t even need to create an account or change the language settings.

Secondly, Google Maps offers many convenient features. For instance, there’s the offline map option. 

When you’re traveling, WiFi or mobile data is not always available. The offline feature solves this issue.

In this way, you don’t need to sacrifice expensive mobile minutes just to find a location.  

Here are the iOS and Android links to download the Google Maps app. 

Out of all the navigation apps in Korea, Naver Map is ranked next to Google. 

Like Google Maps, it has the most detailed maps and navigation information. The app records real-time information from users to optimize its navigation system. 

Moreover, it has several user-friendly features, some especially catering to tourists.   

As you can see below, you can get a preview of the street you’ll be visiting. If you haven’t been to your destination before, you’ll know what to look for. 

You can even rotate the street view 360 degrees. This feature allows you to find landmarks and other prominent places next to the location. 

Therefore, finding places becomes easier. Check out the app on both iOS and Android . 

Thirdly, there’s the T Map application. This app belongs to SK Telecom, a wireless telecommunications operator. 

The best part about the app is its safety features. It has a ‘children protection path’, which warns you about school zones. 

Moreover, you can ask the app for voice reports on traffic, quickest routes, and speed cameras. 

Overall, the app has excellent AI features. Once you’ve installed it on your phone, it responds to voice commands.

If you’re driving, it can even call or send text messages for you, adding to the safety features.

The app is available for both iOS and Android devices. 

Navigation maps in Korea usually have high accuracy. However, Kakao Map surpasses all accuracy expectations with its high-end navigation software.

You can use the app for detailed directions and travel time. The app has options for types of transports: walking, cycling, driving, or using public transport. 

If you’re on foot, it’ll keep you safe on pedestrian-friendly routes. Moreover, if you want to use public transport like the subway, it’ll help you track your stops. 

You can download the Kakao Map app for iOS and Android with these links. 

Lastly, One Navi is also one of the best navigation apps in Korea. It’s the best app for drivers. If you’re on a road trip, you should use One Navi. 

Not only does it give traffic reports, but it also helps minimize fuel costs. How? 

Well, it’ll give you the shortest route possible and guide you to cheaper gas stations. Therefore, you won’t have to spend too much gas money. 

If you’re traveling with friends, you can customize characters for everyone. So, when one person drives, their name and character will appear on the screen. 

It’s a cute and fun thing to do with loved ones. 

Like all the apps on this list, One Navi is also accessible on both iOS and Android . 

To sum it up, navigating Korea is much simpler with these five apps. All of them have translation options, so language isn’t a problem. 

So, whether you’re going to work or simply exploring tourist spots, use these navigation apps in Korea. 

Moreover, if you’re looking for recommendations on where to go, check out Seoul’s infamous Harry Potter Themed Cafe. Read all about the cafe and its attractions here .

Also, you can’t visit Korea without learning your Korean name. Don’t know what that is? Here’s a complete guide on finding your Korean name.

Majid Mushtaq is a passionate content creation wizard, Youtuber, traveler, and selfie-fanatic. He is currently living in Seoul and after being bitten by the travel bug, he has been to 25 countries. He loves writing about cultures, technology, food and more food. Gracias :)

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15 Must Have Apps for Korea!

If you’re about to embark on an exciting journey to South Korea to teach English , you’ve come to the right place. Before you dive headfirst into the land of K-pop and kimchi, let’s talk about the tools that will make your life much more convenient while you’re living your best expat life. These trusty apps will keep you connected, well-fed, and effortlessly navigating the streets of Seoul and beyond. Grab your phone as you read along so you can start downloading. Get ready to embrace convenience like a pro. Without further adieu, here are the 15 Must Have Apps for Korea!

 (All links go to the Google Play Store , but all apps are also available for iOS )

COMMUNICATION

Kakao Talk  is the one app that runs through the veins of every Korean. it is a must-have for anyone living in or visiting South Korea. From its seamless messaging to its cute sticker features and beyond, KakaoTalk has become an integral part of Korean social life. KakaoTalk is great for connecting with locals and will likely be the primary form of communication between you, your coworkers, and your friends. Pro tip: Make sure to choose a username that you are comfortable with, because the Kakao platform will only allow you to change it once!

MAPS & NAVIGATION

Lost in the streets of Seoul? Don’t expect your standard Google or Apple Maps to guide you well. Kakao Maps is here to save the day! This is the go-to navigation app for Koreans. Kakao Maps is an always reliable navigation tool. From accurate real-time directions to detailed public transportation information, this app is a game-changer. It has intuitive features, including voice-guided navigation and street view. It even recommends nearby attractions and restaurants.

When it comes to map options, Naver Maps is my personal favorite (over Kakao Maps)! I find it to be incredibly intuitive, especially when it comes to providing directions for addresses submitted in English. Naver Maps offers a wealth of features. These include precise directions, real-time traffic updates, and comprehensive information about local attractions and services. It can show bus schedules, public transportation options, and user-generated reviews.

Kakao Taxi has become an indispensable app for Koreans. Other ride-hailing apps like Uber are NOT available, so if you need a ride quickly or aren’t yet comfortable with public transportation, Kakao Taxi has got you covered. It provides a seamless and efficient way to book a taxi right from your phone. This allows you to conveniently search the address right from your phone to avoid any communication errors with the driver about where to go. Kakao Taxi has real-time tracking, estimated fares, and the ability to choose your preferred vehicle type. (Be aware that you must have a functioning Korean phone number to connect a Korean bank card and pay, but you can always wave down a taxi the old fashioned way and pay with cash or any card!)

If you are looking to travel long distances in a short period of time, check out the KTX (Korea Train Express) and the KTX App by Korail. Get ready to speed across the country at trains reaching up to 300 kilometers per hour. All while enjoying the view, comfort, and amenities offered on board. With the KTX App by Korail, you can easily search for train schedules, reserve your preferred seats, and purchase e-tickets from your phone.

Navigating through various Korean apps and taking multiple screenshots can be tiring and potentially lead to travel mishaps. When I arrived in Korea, I found solace in using trip.com to book my KTX tickets to Seoul and other major cities. While the prices may be slightly higher compared to booking directly through Korean apps or ticket stands, it offers a great alternative for those seeking peace of mind. The app provides a clear understanding of the ticket purchasing process. Embrace the convenience of Trip.com for hassle-free ticket bookings during your Korean adventures!

TRANSLATION  

Language barriers can be a hassle, but the Papago app revolutionizes communication in South Korea. This powerful translation app, developed by Naver, offers seamless translations between Korean and a multitude of languages. With features like text translation, voice recognition, and even image translation, Papago is a powerful tool for new arrivals and language learners alike.

Google Translate

Say 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo) to Google Translate ! Just like Papago, this app is equipped with text input, voice recognition, and offline capabilities to support you even when you’re offline. I think what sets Google Translate apart is its impressive real-time translation feature, which allows you to conveniently translate text on your screen using your phone’s camera.

SHOPPING & PAYMENT

Coupang offers an extensive range of products, all just a few taps away. With lightning-fast delivery, this tool is comparable to Amazon. Newcomers often worry about packing, but with the ability to order nearly anything from Coupang, you don’t need to worry so much about packing.

GMarket is another great Korean e-commerce platform offering both local and international brands. It always has deals and promotions, offering great value for your money. GMarket is a great option for new arrivals, as you will need a Korean bank account in order to set up any Coupang orders. On the other hand, GMarket allows you to pay with international cards.

I’m sure you’ve started to notice a recurring theme with the ubiquitous presence of “Kakao” on this list. Enter Kakao Pay , the digital payment revolutionizing how Koreans manage their finances. Whether you’re enjoying an iced americano at your go-to local café or seamlessly splitting bills with friends, this app provides a secure and convenient solution with just a few taps on your phone. With features like mobile payments, money transfers, and even the opportunity to earn rewards, Kakao Pay has it all. Plus, it’s as simple as a tap to make contactless payments straight from your phone using compatible card readers.

FOOD DELIVERY

Coupangeats, yogiyo, & baemin.

Arguably some of the most important apps to download are  Yogiyo  (요기요),  Baemin  (배민), and  Coupang Eats  (쿠팡이츠) South Korea’s top food delivery apps! These apps offer an extensive range of options, from local favorites to international dishes. The apps are equipped with photos and descriptions, and the speed of Korean food delivery service is always impressive.

Help Me Emmo!

This option was my saving grace upon arriving to Korea! Ordering from the Korean apps can be tiresome when English descriptions aren’t available. HelpMeEmo (‘Emo’ means ‘Aunt’ in Korean) allows you to chat with a bilingual representative who can assist with placing delivery orders. You can customize your order, ask questions about the menu, and make special requests for just a small fee of around three dollars. And the first order is free! You can also message them on KakaoTalk at ‘HelpMeEmo.’

I hope you’ve found a few helpful apps and services that will make your life in South Korea more convenient and enjoyable! From translation and shopping to navigation and food delivery, these tools are here to simplify your life. Enjoy your adventures in South Korea with these essential apps by your side. Safe travels!

A lexandra Skouras   is from Pennsylvania, USA, and has been living in South Korea since April 2021. She studied Biology and Spanish during college but decided to embrace her love of travel and cultural diversity through teaching English in other countries. After spending one year teaching in Madrid, Spain, she decided to move to South Korea, and since then has been teaching Chungdahm April in Sejong. Her favorite part about teaching is connecting with students and seeing how much growth they can achieve in just a short period of time. Alexandra describes her Korean life as the perfect mix of comfortable and exciting, and is passionate about encouraging other people to take the leap of faith and try something new.

From Tanzania to Korea: My Experience as a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer

Visa application process in the u.k, related posts, how to budget in south korea, being a vegetarian in korea.

Update May 10, 2024

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South Korea

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

South korea - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in South Korea.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Korea.

If you decide to travel to South Korea:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for South Korea.   
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.   
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

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Quick Facts

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No – From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is not required for US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy seoul.

188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03141, Korea Telephone: +(82) (2) 397-4114 (from within Korea, dial 02-397-4114)  DSN:721-4114 Fax: +(82) (2) 397-4101 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate in Busan

Lotte Gold Rose Building #612, Jungang-daero 993, Jin-gu Busan 47209, Korea Telephone: (+82) 51-863-0731 Email:  [email protected]

The Embassy and Consulate are closed on weekends and on  American and Korean holidays .  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +82 (2) 397-4114.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• You must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Korea. From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the  Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)  is not required for US citizens for stays of 90 days or less that are for tourism or business purposes.
• Visa required for all other purposes, including employment, teaching English, and for stays longer than 90 days.

Exceeding your authorized stay or not possessing a valid visa may result in detention and fines.

• In the event of an overstay, apply for a visa extension from the  Korea Immigration Service (KIS)  before attempting to leave the country. Also consult with KIS regarding changes in visa category.

Military Personnel/DOD and their families on orders:

• Consult  DOD Foreign Clearance Guide , and follow all instructions.
• Enter Korea with DOD identification and travel orders.
• Do not transit other countries such as China without a passport and appropriate visas.
• Family Members/Dependents of Military Personnel/DOD on orders must present upon arrival passports valid for at least six months .

U.S. Government Executive Branch personnel on official business and DOD personnel assigned to the U.S. Embassy  (Including family members/dependents):

• Employes assigned to Mission Korea should enter Korea with a diplomatic or official passport and a diplomatic or official Korean visa obtained through their sponsoring agency.  Check with your sponsoring agency about other requirements. 
• TDY visitors traveling to Korea for up to 90 days on diplomatic or official passports do  not  require Korean visas and do  not  require a K-ETA. TDY visitors must obtain country clearance using  Department of State's eCC system  or  DOD APACS system .

HIV/AIDS Restriction:  The Department of State is unaware of any such entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Korea.

• Visit the  Embassy of Korea  website for current visa information. Please read our  Customs Information page .

COVID-19 Requirements :

• There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.
• Travel regulations and restrictions are subject to change, sometimes with little notice. You should review the information available on your nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate’s webpage before traveling.

Safety and Security

Public Demonstrations:  Demonstrations and rallies are common in South Korea, particularly near the U.S. Embassy, Seoul City Hall, and areas surrounding military installations. You should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or rallies. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

North Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK):  An armistice agreement, monitored by the United Nations, has maintained general peace on the Korean peninsula since 1953. Tensions occasionally flare up because of provocative acts by North Korea, including ballistic missile and nuclear tests and limited armed incursions into ROK-held territory. Some provocations have escalated into geographically limited skirmishes. South Korea routinely conducts military training exercises and civil defense drills. North Korea often issues strongly-worded and threatening messages, frequently in connection with these exercises. Please see our  Fact Sheet on North Korea .

Weather-related Events:  Heavy rains and flooding may occur during the June - August monsoon season or the May - November typhoon season. See general information about natural disaster preparedness at the U.S.  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  website.

Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ):  To receive security messages by email and make it easier to locate you in an emergency, register in STEP. 

If the Embassy becomes aware of any specific and credible threat to the safety and security of U.S. citizens, we will inform you through our website, social media, and email.

Crime:  For most visitors, South Korea remains a very safe country. Common crimes occur more frequently in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites, and crowded markets.

• Take routine safety precautions.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Report any concerns to local police.

Violent crime is not common; however, remain vigilant:

• Exercise caution in crowded entertainment, nightlife, and shopping districts.
• If traveling at night, consider traveling in groups.
• Use legitimate taxis or public transportation only.

Victims of Crime:  Call 112 for emergency assistance or to report a crime to local authorities. Call 02-397-4114 to contact the U.S. Embassy. We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to police;
• Contact relatives or friends on your behalf;
• Explain Korean judicial procedures in general terms;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help you find accommodations and flight arrangements to the United States;
• Replace a lost or stolen passport.

Sexual Assault:   The Embassy regularly receives reports of sexual assault from U.S. citizens. Most cases involved young women assaulted by acquaintances they met on social media, dating, or messaging apps. Alcohol is often involved, and Korea’s low overall crime can create a false sense of security.  Specialized hospital units and police are available in South Korea to assist victims, however services in English and responsiveness to the crime are not always consistent. In general, sex crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in the United States and the road to prosecution is a challenging one for victims.

Domestic Violence:  Victim’s assistance resources or battered women’s shelters exist in Seoul and other urban areas but may be limited in rural areas. Most are government administered and require a police referral. Call 112 for emergency assistance or 1366 to reach Korea’s 24-hour domestic violence hotline. Victims may also contact the Embassy, tel. (+82) 2-397-4114.

Lost or Stolen Passports:  If your passport is stolen, file a report at the nearest police station.

Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if widely available.  It is against South Korean law to purchase these goods and against U.S. law to bring them into the United States. The  Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Division in the U.S. Department of Justice  has more information.

Avoid fraud and scams:  See  Department of State  and  FBI  websites for more information.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  While in Korea, you are subject to local laws. If you violate Korean laws, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Be aware that:

• Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation.
• There is little tolerance for illegal drugs.
• If you mail illegal drugs to/ from Korea, you will be prosecuted.
• Commercial disputes may lead to criminal charges being filed under local laws.

Be aware that some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the Embassy. See our  webpage  for further information.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Dual Nationality and Military Conscription:  Dual national males (including U.S. service members) may be subject to compulsory military service. If you have family ties to South Korea, consult the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate or the  Korean Military Manpower Administration  regarding potential citizenship obligations  before entering South Korea .

Passport Seizures and Exit Bans:  If you are involved in a criminal investigation or commercial dispute, authorities may seize your passport and/or block your departure. While we may reissue a passport, we cannot lift an exit ban.

Exit Permits:  Exit permits are not generally required. However, if a parent requests a travel restriction on his/her child, Korean authorities may prevent that child from departing even when traveling with the other parent. As of June 1, 2020, foreigners who are long-term residents of the ROK are required to obtain a re-entry permit four business days prior to departure from Korea. The permits are available online through an e-application at the  www.hikorea.go.kr  website.

International Child Abduction:  See our website for information related to the  prevention of international child abduction . 

Working in South Korea:  If working, including teaching or modeling, you must enter with the appropriate work visa. It is not possible to change your visa status without leaving the country. If you begin work without the appropriate visa, you may be arrested, fined, and/or deported. If you are working without a valid work permit and get into a contractual dispute with your employer, you have little legal recourse.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

ROK National Security Law:  Authorities may detain, arrest, and imprison persons believed to have committed acts intended to endanger the “security of the state,” including statements deemed to praise the political system and/or officials of the DPRK. 

Customs Regulations: There is strict enforcement of regulations on importing and exporting items such as firearms, narcotics and prescription drugs, non-prescription health supplements, radio equipment, and gold. Importation of materials deemed to be obscene, subversive, or harmful to the public peace is also restricted.

• Amphetamines are illegal in Korea. Do not bring amphetamines or other prescription narcotics into the country without obtaining advance permission in writing from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. See the  U.S. Embassy Seoul, Health Information page .
• Traveling with Pets: See  Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency  website.

See the  Korean Customs Regulations website for complete information.

LGBTI Travelers:  Consensual same-sex sexual activity is not criminalized. Korea is a conservative country in regards to LGBTI issues. However, there are an increasing number of LGBTI-oriented clubs, festivals and NGOs advocating for LGBTI issues. The ROK National Human Rights Commission Act prohibits discrimination against individuals because of their sexual orientation, but there are no laws specifying punishment for persons found to have discriminated on this basis. Same-sex marriages are not recognized. Korean citizens can legally change their gender identity.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Mobility Issues:  Korean law mandates access to transportation, communication, and public buildings. Cross walks typically have audio and visual signals. Older buildings and streets are generally less accessible than modern ones. Metro cars and buses in Seoul offer priority seating for the disabled and most metro stations have elevators. Metro platforms include Korean Braille information. Contact individual bus companies and subway associations for specific information. Foreign residents are eligible for disability assistance from local ward offices; assistance varies by ward.

Quality of Care : Western-style medical facilities are available in most large cities. However, not all doctors and staff, are proficient in English. A  list of hospitals  and medical specialists who speak English is available on our website. For emergency ambulance service dial 119. Ambulance services are widely available. For information on medical evacuation from South Korea, please see the State Department’s brochure on  Air Ambulance/MedEvac/Medical Escort Providers . 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Verify your health insurance coverage before traveling overseas. See our webpage for information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage . In most cases, health care providers will require payment in advance of treatment or will not release a patient until hospital bills are paid. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to include coverage for medical evacuation.

Medication:  Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Most prescription medications, except psychotropic types, can be obtained at Korean pharmacies (brand names often differ). Local pharmacies will require a prescription from a Korean doctor.

Update  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

For further health information go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are well-paved, traffic signals functional, and most drivers comply with basic traffic laws. South Korea has a significantly higher traffic fatality rate than the United States. Causes of accidents include excessive speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, aggressive bus drivers, and weaving motorcyclists. It is recommended that you photo document any traffic accidents.

Be aware that motorcyclists may drive on sidewalks, and drivers do not always yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.

Traffic Laws include:

• International driving permit (or ROK license) is required for all drivers.
• Left-hand turns prohibited except with green arrow.
• Seat belts and car seats are mandatory.
• Motorcycle passengers must wear helmets.
• Automobile drivers are presumed to have some fault in accidents involving pedestrians.
• Expect long waits at police stations while police investigate any incidents.
• Police may take your passport or detain you during an investigation.
• Even if negligence is not proven, criminal charges may be filed.
• Blood-alcohol content of 0.03% or higher is considered legally intoxicated.
• Police regularly set up DUI checkpoints. Drivers are required to submit to breathalyzer tests; refusal can result in cancellation of your license.

For information about driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to our  Road Safety page . You may also visit the  Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) website.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Republic of Korea's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the ROK's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA's Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to South Korea should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s  Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and as a broadcast warning on the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

South Korea was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  South Korea.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Russia holds two more Americans − including Army Staff Sgt. Gordon Black

Black's mother told abc news she warned her son about going to russia and worried 'he was being set up' by a woman he'd met in south korea..

• 'As far as we understand, this is a purely everyday crime,' Russia's interior ministry said of Staff Sgt. George Black's arrest.

WASHINGTON − Russian authorities said Tuesday they had detained two U.S. nationals − including Staff Sgt. Gordon Black, an active duty U.S. soldier − in separate criminal cases on either side of the country.

Black, was arrested Monday on theft charges and ordered held by a court in Vladivostok in Russia's Far East, U.S. and Russian officials said.

The servicemember made an unauthorized personal trip from South Korea, where he had been stationed, to Vladivostok, the U.S. Army said. Russian officials said he'd gone to meet a woman he'd met in South Korea.

Black's mother, Melody Jones, told ABC News she warned her son about going to Russia. "I knew something was going to happen," she told the network. "I felt like he was being set up by her."

Radio Free Europe identified Black's girlfriend as Vladivostok native Aleksandra Vashchuk , and grabbed clips from her Tik Tok account showing her and Black in South Korea together before the account was taken private on Tuesday.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

in one video, Black appears to share Kremlin talking points, telling Vashchuk's followers that NATO's behavior was "pretty aggressive," RFE reported. Another video shows Black in uniform, wearing a patch of the Eighth Army's Wightman NCO Academy , as a woman identified as Vaschuk narrates in Russian.

The staff sergeant's arrest had echoes of the case of troubled Army Pvt. Travis King , who caused an international incident in July 2023 by bolting across the border from South Korea into North Korea, where he was held prisoner for two and a half months.

But U.S. officials said they didn't consider Black a deserter. The Russian Foreign Ministry said Black's case had no political element and that there were no allegations of espionage.

"As far as we understand, this is a purely everyday crime," the TASS state news agency cited the ministry's Vladivostok branch as saying.

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Criminal cases against Americans in Russia have assumed diplomatic significance in recent years, including a drugs case against WNBA star Brittney Griner , freed last year in a prisoner swap, and espionage charges against Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter , which he, his employer, and the U.S. government deny. Washington has officially designated Gershkovich and Paul Whelan , a former Marine convicted of spying, as "wrongfully detained.

The Vladivostok court said Black would be detained at least until July 2, according to the RIA news agency. The U.S. Army said Black was an Iraq and Afghanistan veteran who joined the military in 2008.

Staff sergeant flew to Russia without U.S. Army permission

Black was being "out-processed" from U.S. Forces Korea to Fort Cavazos, Texas, when, instead boarding a flight to the U.S., he traveled "through China to Vladivostok, Russia, for personal reasons," Army spokesperson Cynthia Smith said in a statement.

"Black did not request official clearance and DoD did not authorize his travel to China and Russia," Smith said, referring to the Defense Department. She said there was "no evidence Black intended to remain in Russia" when his time off ended.

More: Putin admits 'radical Islamists' were behind Moscow massacre, but still blames Ukraine

The U.S. Embassy in Moscow and the Eighth Army notified Black’s family of his arrest shortly after Russian officials contacted the embassy, Smith said.

The Russian interior ministry in Vladivostok said a 32-year-old woman had filed a complaint against the 34-year-old suspect.

Black had come to Vladivostok to visit her, the two had an argument, and she later filed a police report accusing him of stealing money, the court said. He was arrested in a local hotel, having bought a plane ticket to return home.

Public nudity in Moscow

Separately, Moscow's court service said on Tuesday that a court had remanded a U.S. citizen whom it named as William Russell Nycum in custody for 10 days for "petty hooliganism."

It said he had been found naked outside after drinking alcohol in an incident it said "expressed obvious disrespect to society, citizens and public order."

On Tuesday, a spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy in Moscow said: "We are aware of reports of U.S. citizens being arrested inside of Russia. ... Consular officers from the embassy always seek to aid citizens with appropriate assistance but due to privacy concerns we aren't able to comment further."

Contributing: Reuters

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A huge solar storm is slamming into the Earth. Scientists say you should look up

Geoff Brumfiel

The solar flare as captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory on Thursday. The flare has triggered a severe geomagnetic storm watch for the first time in nearly 20 years. AP hide caption

The solar flare as captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory on Thursday. The flare has triggered a severe geomagnetic storm watch for the first time in nearly 20 years.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades.

Late Friday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration declared that the Earth was experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm. This is the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

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NOAA warns several waves of flares will slam into the Earth over the next few hours and days, potentially disrupting communications and navigation, triggering power outages and damaging satellites. The 2003 event briefly knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center says that this latest storm may induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

On social media, posters were putting up photos of bright auroras visible across Russia , Scandinavia , the U.K . and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as Coronal Mass Ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several are headed directly towards our planet.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

"We have high confidence that a series of coronal mass ejections ... are directed right towards Earth," says Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Space Weather Prediction Center told reaporters early Friday.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

While they expect the storm to be large, there's still a lot of uncertainty about what the other effects could be, Dahl says.

"I wouldn't want to speculate on that," Dahl says.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more dependent on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

Steenburgh says it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh says.

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves: "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," says Dahl. The largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keep some flashlights and a radio handy, he says.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

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• solar storm

South Korea stresses need for fair treatment for Line chat app operator Naver

South Korea has vowed to protect its companies operating in other markets after Japanese regulators told LY Corp., which runs the popular chat app Line, to reduce its dependence on Naver, the Korean partner in the venture

SEOUL, South Korea -- South Korea vowed Friday to protect its companies operating in other markets after Japan ese regulators told LY Corp., which runs the popular chat app Line, to reduce its dependence on Naver, the Korean partner in the venture.

Friction over Naver’s 50% stake in LY, a venture with Japan's SoftBank, surfaced after a major security breach at Naver’s cloud computing servers last year. The Japanese side instructed LY to improve its governance and rely less on Naver after the leak of more than 300,000 records, including information of Line users.

Some Korean politicians have accused Japan of pressuring Naver to reduce its stake in LY, demanding that President Yoon Suk Yeol’s government adopt a stern stance toward Tokyo.

A senior Korean technology ministry official spoke with reporters Friday after Naver confirmed it was discussing with SoftBank “all possibilities,” including selling its shares in LY Corp.

On Wednesday, LY’s president, Takeshi Idezawa, told reporters in Tokyo that Naver and SoftBank were discussing their shareholdings in the app operator with the premise that SoftBank would take a majority stake.

Kang Dohyun, South Korea’s second vice technology minister, told reporter in Seoul that the Korean government had confirmed that the instructions to LY from Japan’s Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry do not specifically require Naver to reduce its stake in the company.

But he said Seoul regrets that the order was “being perceived as pressure” for Naver to do so.

“I would like to reiterate that the government is firmly committed to ensuring that our companies, including Naver, do not receive any disadvantages or unfair treatment in foreign businesses and investments,” Kang said. “We will respond sternly and strongly to any discriminatory measures taken against our companies.”

Since taking office in 2022, Yoon has focused on improving ties with Tokyo that had deteriorated due to longstanding grievances and strengthening mutual security cooperation with Japan and the United States in the face of North Korean nuclear threats.

Kang said the government would support whatever decision Naver makes about its stake in LY. If it decides to keep role in the joint venture, he said the technology ministry would help it strengthen its cybersecurity.

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South Korea stresses need for fair treatment for Line chat app operator Naver

Kang Dohyun, South Korea’s second vice technology minister, speaks at a press briefing at the government complex in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, May 10, 2024. South Korea vowed Friday to protect its companies operating in other markets after Japanese regulators told LY Corp., which runs the popular chat app Line in a joint venture with Japan’s SoftBank, to reduce its dependence on its Korean partner, Naver. (Lim Hwa-young/Yonhap via AP)

FILE - The logo of Naver is seen at its headquarters in Seongnam, South Korea on Nov. 16, 2021. South Korea vowed Friday, May 10, 2024, to protect its companies operating in other markets after Japanese regulators told LY Corp., which runs the popular chat app Line in a joint venture with Japan’s SoftBank, to reduce its dependence on its Korean partner, Naver. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, File)

FILE - The logo of Japanese mobile provider SoftBank at its shop in Tokyo, Japan, on June 14, 2018. South Korea vowed Friday, May 10, 2024, to protect its companies operating in other markets after Japanese regulators told LY Corp., which runs the popular chat app Line in a joint venture with Japan’s SoftBank, to reduce its dependence on its Korean partner, Naver. (AP Photo/Shuji Kajiyama, File)

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SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea vowed Friday to protect its companies operating in other markets after Japanese regulators told LY Corp., which runs the popular chat app Line, to reduce its dependence on Naver, the Korean partner in the venture.

Friction over Naver’s 50% stake in LY, a venture with Japan’s SoftBank, surfaced after a major security breach at Naver’s cloud computing servers last year. The Japanese side instructed LY to improve its governance and rely less on Naver after the leak of more than 300,000 records, including information of Line users.

Some Korean politicians have accused Japan of pressuring Naver to reduce its stake in LY, demanding that President Yoon Suk Yeol’s government adopt a stern stance toward Tokyo.

A senior Korean technology ministry official spoke with reporters Friday after Naver confirmed it was discussing with SoftBank “all possibilities,” including selling its shares in LY Corp.

On Wednesday, LY’s president, Takeshi Idezawa, told reporters in Tokyo that Naver and SoftBank were discussing their shareholdings in the app operator with the premise that SoftBank would take a majority stake.

Kang Dohyun, South Korea’s second vice technology minister, told reporter in Seoul that the Korean government had confirmed that the instructions to LY from Japan’s Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry do not specifically require Naver to reduce its stake in the company.

But he said Seoul regrets that the order was “being perceived as pressure” for Naver to do so.

“I would like to reiterate that the government is firmly committed to ensuring that our companies, including Naver, do not receive any disadvantages or unfair treatment in foreign businesses and investments,” Kang said. “We will respond sternly and strongly to any discriminatory measures taken against our companies.”

Since taking office in 2022, Yoon has focused on improving ties with Tokyo that had deteriorated due to longstanding grievances and strengthening mutual security cooperation with Japan and the United States in the face of North Korean nuclear threats.

Kang said the government would support whatever decision Naver makes about its stake in LY. If it decides to keep role in the joint venture, he said the technology ministry would help it strengthen its cybersecurity.