Visiting Korea soon? Whether you’re navigating Seoul’s subway, ordering street food in Busan, or booking a taxi after hours, having the right apps on your phone can turn a stressful trip into a seamless adventure. These apps are the ones I personally used—and locals recommended—that kept everything running smoothly.
1. KakaoMap – Korea’s Must-Have Navigation App
KakaoMap is the most reliable app to find your way around Korea. It offers real‑time public transit routes, walking navigation, bike routes, and even traffic info updated within 24 hours.
You can switch to English in the settings and use map searches like “Gyeongbokgung Palace” or “Hongdae Cafe”—it works flawlessly. As shared on Reddit, some travelers said, “After installing Kakao T first, your KakaoMap automatically set to English”.
2. Naver Map – Another Excellent Transit Option
While Google Maps isn’t always accurate in Korea, Naver Map is another top pick for transit info and walking directions.
- Public transit, driving, walking routes all clearly mapped
- Detailed search filters (bus stop ID, building name)
- Nearby restaurant/hotel suggestions
Download from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Many foreigners use both KakaoMap and Naver Map depending on their route.
3. Subway Korea / Seoul Subway – Metro Made Easy
If you need an English‑friendly subway route planner, Subway Korea or the official “Seoul Subway” app is a lifesaver. It shows subway schedules, station facilities, and express vs. local trains. Reddit users often praise it for clarity to avoid missing express stops.
- App for Android & iOS
- All major metro systems in Korea covered (Seoul, Busan, Daegu, etc.)
- Bookmark your favorite routes too
4. Kakao T – Taxi, Shuttle, and Navigation in One Place
Kakao T (formerly KakaoTaxi) is Korea’s go-to app for calling taxis, ride‑share, and even designated drivers .
- Enter addresses in English or Korean
- Option to “Pay to driver” allows card payment or cash—no Korean phone number required
- Real-time driver info: license plate, model, name
Download:
Android Kakao T |
iOS Kakao T.
5. TADA – Foreigner-Friendly Taxi Alternative
TADA is another ride-hailing app popular among tourists. It’s visually simple, accepts foreign cards, and handles English navigation perfectly.
- No Korean address required
- Fare estimates before booking
- Premium taxis available as needed
6. Papago – Translation App You’ll Actually Use
Don’t speak Korean? Naver Papago is your best friend. It translates text, voice, image, and even real-time conversations in over 13 languages.
- Offline mode available in premium
- Phrasebook and conversation mode for easy real‑time communication
7. Citymapper / Google Maps – For Global Travelers
On the off chance that you prefer global navigation apps, Citymapper supports Seoul transit routes and includes exit numbering—though coverage is limited.
Google Maps still works for walking or public transit. It’s especially handy if you save your offline area for times with poor internet.
8. OsmAnd – Offline Maps for Adventurous Travelers
Free & open-source
When you’re venturing off-the-grid—like into Jeju’s countryside or UNESCO sites—OsmAnd lets you download full offline maps and POIs, then guide you with turn-by-turn directions without needing the internet.
- Offline routing for walking, biking, driving
- Custom map styles and offline Wikipedia POIs
- Free version has limits; paid opens more features
Quick Comparison Table
| App | Main Use | Best For | Download |
|---|---|---|---|
| KakaoMap | Local routes & transit | Walking, public transit | Android / iOS |
| Naver Map | Transit & GPS | Bus, driving, multisearch | Android / iOS |
| Kakao T | Taxi & rides | Calling cabs in English | Android / iOS |
| TADA | Foreigner-friendly taxi | Simple interface | Android / iOS |
| Citymapper | Multi-city navigation | Global view, exit guides | Android / iOS |
| OsmAnd | Offline maps | Rural, offline use | Android / iOS |
Tips for Non‑Korean Speakers in Korea
- Switch map apps to English in settings early.
- Save your hotel’s Korean address in notes—easier than typing.
- Use Papago phrasebook for ordering food or reading menus.
- If a driver doesn’t speak English, show them the pickup/destination written in Korean.
- Download offline maps before heading to areas with poor signal.
Wrapping It Up
Korea’s transportation system is world-class—but tourist confusion can happen when language or unfamiliar routes get in the way. These apps—**KakaoMap, Naver Map, Subway Korea, Kakao T, TADA, Papago, Citymapper, OsmAnd**—are your digital helpers. They cover navigation, translation, travel planning, and taxi calling—all in English-enabled interfaces.
Download them before your trip, get comfortable with the basic screens (like setting language or entering addresses), and you’ll navigate Korea confidently—like a local.
Enjoy your travels, and don’t get lost in translation! 😊