(file photo)
Essential apps for your life in Korea
KakaoTalk is a free messenger widely used among Koreans, similar to WhatsApp. It’s a main tool for communicating with Koreans and local businesses. Get used to the cute Kakao emoticons as they are commonly used in everyday texting. KakaoTalk PC allows you to use this messenger on your computer.
(KakaoTalk)
Naver Papago provides the most accurate translation from Korean to other languages.
(Naver Papago)
Naver Map stands out as the most efficient mapping app in Korea, offering detailed maps, directions, real-time traffic information, and additional features such as finding nearby interesting places.
(Naver Map)
Subway Korea offers metro maps with real-time information on schedules, fares, routes, travel time and more, covering all areas with subway systems in ROK.
(Subway Korea)
Kakao T is known primarily as a taxi-hailing app, but it also extends its service to finding parking spots, EV charging stations, and more.
(Kakao T)
KorailTalk is a simple way to book trains operated by Korail without any language barrier.
(KorailTalk)
Skyscanner is an excellent app for finding deals on flight tickets, both domestically and internationally, as well as searching for hotels and car rentals.
(Skyscanner)
Klook and Trazy
(Klook)
(Trazy)
They are both similar travel shops for activity and tour bookings. Klook covers destinations around the world while Trazy focuses only on Korea. Use both apps, as sometimes one or the other offers a better deal and more options.
Booking accommodations
Airbnb offers diverse options for stays and activities hosted by locals.
(Airbnb)
Agoda is mainly for accommodations, offering many local stays at a good deal. They also provide deals for transportation and activities.
(Agoda)
Hotels.com offers accommodations worldwide, including many in Korea. They often feature special deals and discounts.
(Hotels.com)
Hostelworld allows users to compare prices from various hotel booking websites, helping them find the best deals and options.
(Hostelworld)
Hostelworld Staying at a hostel can be a great way to save your budget as well as make friends during your trip.
(Hostelworld)
Useful apps for studying Korean
Naver Dictionary is a useful app allowing you study vocabularies and save them on your own vocab list.
(Naver Dictionary)
Naver Keyboard is necessary when you want to text in Korean on your phone.
(Naver Keyboard)
Duolingo is an app providing Korean lessons according to your level, teaching from words to conversation. It’s especially helpful when learning the Korean alphabet, Hangeul.
(Duolingo)
HelloTalk is a language exchange app where you can practice Korean with locals.
(HelloTalk)
FAQs
Naver Map stands out as the most widely used map application in South Korea. It offers detailed maps of the country, including real-time traffic and facility information. Whether you're driving, using public transport, or walking, Naver Map provides accurate navigation to your destination.
What should I prepare for Korea travel? ›
Airport Package (SIM/Transportation Card Bundle)
- Korean Travel Visa/Individual Passport. ...
- South Korean Internet/SIM Card. ...
- Korean Travel Card. ...
- Exchanging Money in South Korea. ...
- Luggage Issues Before and After Arrival. ...
- Airport to City Transportation. ...
- Korean Voltage/Adapter. ...
- Must-have Apps for Traveling in South Korea.
Local laws
Make sure you have adequate health and liability insurance before riding. It's illegal to work or volunteer in South Korea if it's not specified in your visa. If you plan to work, arrange a work visa through a South Korean embassy or consulate before you travel.
What app do Koreans use instead of WhatsApp? ›
KakaoTalk (Korean: 카카오톡), commonly referred to as KaTalk (Korean: 카톡) in South Korea, is an instant messenger and online services platform operated by Kakao Corporation. It was launched in 2010 and the app is available on mobile and desktop platforms.
Which app is used in Korea instead of Google? ›
Naver acts as the main search engine used in South Korea, which results in the use of Naver maps almost equaling that of the 42 million users of the Naver search engine. Kakao maps was launched in the early 2010's by the Kakao corporation.
What messaging app works in Korea? ›
In South Korea, the most popular messaging app is KakaoTalk, not WeChat. KakaoTalk has a dominant market share and is widely used for personal and professional communication.
Can I use WhatsApp in Korea? ›
Short answer: Yes. WhatsApp is allowed in South Korea, and most of its population uses this app to communicate with friends and family and even with their colleagues. If you didn't know, South Korea is a nation with a high population dependent on technology, and WhatsApp is no different.
Can foreigners use KakaoTalk? ›
Is the service available worldwide? KakaoTalk is available in 230 officially registered international country codes. Please select the correct code for your country, then enter your phone number (without the country code), and then continue through the SMS verification process.
Do I need to carry my passport in Korea? ›
All foreigners must carry a passport, visa or a foreigner registration card while in Korea (Those under 17 are exempt from this duty). Failure to comply with such requests will result in punishment as according to the Immigration Act Article 27.
Do I still need a QR code for Korea? ›
Latest information on South Korea's Q-Code
As of 15 July 2023, a Q-Code is no longer required to enter South Korea. Travelers only need to have their K-ETA or VISA. For more updated and detailed information, you can check out Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Reusable Water Bottle - Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! (and save the planet by not buying plastic water bottles)! You will have access to clean water for refilling at all the hotels. Packing Cubes - We'll be moving in and out of hotels frequently and these will keep you organized.
What do Americans need to travel to South Korea? ›
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.
What form do I need to fill out to enter South Korea? ›
US citizens don't require a tourist visa to enter South Korea. Normally, you must apply for a K-ETA before entering Korea for short-term stays.
What vaccinations do you need for South Korea? ›
Courses or boosters usually advised: none. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Rabies; Tetanus; Tick-borne Encephalitis. Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Japanese Encephalitis. No yellow fever vaccination certificate required for this country.
What is the best way to get around in Korea? ›
Cities like Seoul and Busan have passes that operate on subways or trains. Subway systems are the most efficient and easiest way to get around the large cities. Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon each have their own systems. Taxis in South Korea are safe, clean, and relatively inexpensive.
Which navigation app to use in Korea? ›
Naver Map. Naver Map is pretty much the king of directions and navigation in Korea. It also has accurate map “questing” so you'll be able to find the quickest and easiest routes to get to your destination. If nothing else, Naver Map is the most important travel app for anyone visiting or living in Korea.
What rideshare app is used in Korea? ›
Description │ Kakao T is the most widely used taxi app by Koreans and tourists alike. The app offers a variety of vehicle options ranging from regular sedans to mini vans as well as service options like luxury taxis. Kakao T service is available wherever you are in Korea, including Jeju Island.
Is there Uber in Korea? ›
Yes. The Uber app gives you the power to request a ride to get around Seoul anytime, 24/7. What's the most affordable way to travel in Seoul? With Uber, you can choose the ride option that works best for your budget when you travel in Seoul.
