In Korea, people use their own local platforms. So if you want a smooth trip without getting lost, these are the local apps that will provide you the most accurate, real-time data and hidden local spots optimized just for Korea.

1️⃣ Naver (네이버)

Korea’s dominant search engine which is useful for Korea-specific information. We recommend searching places in Korean for the most relevant results (use Papago to translate the name first).

• Language Support: Korean
• Verification: No account needed
• Payment: N/A
• Features: Search engine

2️⃣ Naver Map (네이버맵)

Google Maps does not give walking directions in Korea. This is the primary navigation app in Korea and the most important download on this list. It integrates with Korean public transport in real time, shows bus arrival times, and accurately routes you between subway lines.

• Language Support: Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese
• Verification: No account needed
• Payment: N/A
• Features: Provides walking, transit, driving, and cycling directions throughout Korea

3️⃣ Kakao Map (카카오맵)

Kakao Map is a solid alternative to Naver Map from ‘Kakao’(Korea’s major tech company). Transit routing is equaliy good however it has connection with ‘Kakao Taxi’, which is most widely utilized taxi-hailing transportation market.

• Language Support: Korean, English
• Verification: Kakao Accout
• Payment: N/A
• Features: Provides walking, transit, driving, and cycling directions throughout Korea