Apps that actually work in Korea
Why Google Maps falls short, and the maps, taxi, translation and delivery apps to install before you arrive.
Google Maps works for looking at the map, but walking and driving directions are limited in Korea because of map-data export rules. Public transit directions do work. Locals use Naver Map or Kakao Map, and both have English menus.
Install before you fly
| App | What for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Naver Map | Walking, transit and driving directions, opening hours | English, Japanese, Chinese interface. Best overall. |
| Kakao Map | Same as above, slightly better bus arrival times | Korean-centred but usable in English. |
| Kakao T | Taxis | Register with any phone number. Pay the driver by card or cash if you cannot add a foreign card. |
| Papago | Translation, camera translation of menus | Better Korean than Google Translate. |
| Subway Korea or Naver Map | Subway map, timetables | Offline map helps underground. |
| KakaoTalk | Messaging with Korean contacts, hotels, guesthouses | Many small businesses reply only on Kakao. |
Reservations
Many restaurants use Catch Table or Naver reservations, which may require a Korean phone number. Popular places also accept walk-ins with a waiting list — arrive early.
Food delivery
Baemin and Coupang Eats are the big delivery apps. Both now accept foreign cards in many cases, but sign-up can need a Korean number; your hotel front desk can often help.
Payments and banking
Apple Pay works only with cards issued by some Korean banks, so do not rely on it. Contactless foreign Visa/Mastercard works at a growing number of terminals but not all. See the payments guide.
Get a Korea eSIMInstall before you fly. Works the moment you land.
Get a Korea eSIM (Airalo)