Arriving in Korea with only Google Maps and Google Translate is possible, but you’ll quickly find that locals use a different set of apps. The right ones make getting around, eating and chatting much easier.
Here’s a practical list for visitors and new residents. Some apps need a Korean phone number to sign up, which I’ll flag.
Maps and getting around
- Naver Map and KakaoMap. The most accurate map apps in Korea, with detailed subway, bus and walking directions. English is supported. Google Maps works for searching places, but turn-by-turn navigation is limited in Korea, so most people rely on these two.
- Subway apps. The map apps above also show real-time subway and bus arrival times.
- T-money. A transport card you tap on subways and buses, and also usable at many convenience stores. It’s not an app, but it’s essential.
Taxis
- Kakao T. The most widely used taxi app. Check whether your payment card works in the app before you rely on it.
- Regular taxis can be hailed on the street, and many accept foreign cards.
Messaging and translation
- KakaoTalk. Almost everyone in Korea uses it for chatting, group chats and even business contact. Install it before you arrive.
- Papago. A translation app from Naver. It’s especially good for Korean, and it can translate text from photos, such as menus.
Food delivery and shopping
- Baemin, Coupang Eats and Yogiyo. Popular food delivery apps. They often need a Korean phone number and address, so they work best for residents.
- Coupang. A shopping app known for very fast delivery. Residents with a Korean address use it daily.
Payments and everyday life
- Naver Pay, Kakao Pay and Toss. Mobile payment and transfer apps. Many need a Korean bank account or ID, so tourists usually pay by card.
- Danggeun (Karrot). A neighborhood second-hand marketplace that requires a Korean phone number. If you use any resale app, be careful about money scams.
Numbers worth saving
- 112: police
- 119: fire and ambulance
- 1330: Korea Travel Helpline, with multilingual help for visitors
Tips
- Many Korean apps send a verification code by SMS. If you’re a visitor, install the ones that don’t need a Korean number first.
- Download offline maps or screenshot your route if your data is limited.
- Keep a payment card that works internationally, since not every shop accepts foreign mobile wallets.
Which apps do you use every day in Korea? Tell us in the community.