The 5 apps you actually need in Seoul (Google Maps won't save you)

Because of local mapping rules, Google Maps in Korea is famously half-broken — places appear, but walking and driving directions often don't. Koreans navigate with their own apps, and as a visitor you should too. These five cover 99% of a trip.

1. Naver Map — your new compass

The map locals actually use. Precise walking routes, restaurant reviews with photos, subway exits numbered correctly. Switch it to English in settings and download your hotel area for offline use.

2. Papago — the translator that gets Korean

Built by Naver, it translates Korean more naturally than global rivals. The camera mode reads menus and signs; conversation mode handles ticket counters and taxi drivers. Download the Korean language pack before your flight.

3. Kakao T — taxis without the language barrier

Type your destination in English, watch the car arrive, pay in the app. It removes the two hardest parts of Korean taxis — explaining where, and paying at the end. Regular taxis are fairly priced by the meter; the app just makes them effortless.

4. A subway app — any of the big ones

Seoul's subway is superb but vast. A route app (several good ones exist, and Naver Map covers this too) tells you the fastest car for your transfer and which exit to take — exits matter, stations are underground cities.

5. KakaoTalk — the country's phone system

Less critical for a short trip, but many tour operators, restaurants and hotels communicate through it. If you're booking experiences or meeting a local guide, having it installed saves friction.

Before you fly

Install all five, set the language options, and save your hotel's name in Korean as a note — a screenshot of the Korean name and address is the single most useful thing you can show a taxi driver or a stranger you're asking for directions.