Planning a trip to South Korea? To travel like a local, you need to download the best Korea travel apps before you arrive. You are probably packing your bags, checking your passport, and downloaded Google Maps. But here is a quick insider secret: Google Maps will not work properly once you land in Korea.
From ordering food without a Korean phone number to catching a taxi seamlessly, here are the top 5 essential smartphone apps every foreigner needs before traveling to Korea.
Naver Map (네이버 지도) – The Ultimate Navigation Tool
As mentioned, Google Maps is practically useless for turn-by-turn navigation in Korea. Naver Map is the undisputed king of navigation here.
Why you need it: It provides real-time subway schedules, bus arrival times, and incredibly precise walking routes. It also shows which subway car door is closest to your transfer.
Foreigner Tip: It fully supports English, Chinese, and Japanese. Make sure to change the language settings immediately after downloading.
Download on the App Store (iOS) | Get it on Google Play (Android)
Papago (파파고) – Your Korean-Speaking Best Friend
Lost in Korea because you can’t read the menu? Not sure if you’re ordering grilled pork… or pig intestines? That’s exactly why you need Papago.
While Google Translate does a decent job, Papago was created by a Korean company and understands Korean much better. It recognizes context, honorific speech, and even modern Korean slang that Google often struggles with.
Why you need it:
See a menu you can’t read? A subway sign that looks like a secret code? Just take a picture. Papago’s image translation feature instantly turns Korean text into your language right on the screen. It’s like carrying a personal translator in your pocket.
Foreigner Tip:
Here’s a feature most tourists don’t know about. Use Voice Mode. Speak into your phone in English, and Papago will translate and read it aloud in Korean.
The first time you successfully order food in Korean using Papago, you’ll feel like you’ve unlocked a secret travel superpower. 🦸♂️🇰🇷✨ Trust me—this app alone can save your trip!
Download on the App Store (iOS) | Get it on Google Play (Android)
Kakao T (카카오 T) – Hail a Taxi with No Language Barrier
Trying to catch a taxi on the streets of Seoul can be frustrating, especially late at night.
That’s where Kakao T comes in—Korea’s most popular taxi-hailing app and the closest equivalent to Uber.
Why you need it:
Book a taxi directly to your location. Check the estimated fare before your ride. Choose from different vehicle options.
Foreigner Tip:
Good news! You no longer need a Korean phone number or a Korean credit card to use Kakao T. International travelers can register Visa or Mastercard credit cards directly in the app. You can also choose “Pay to Driver” and pay with cash or a T-money card at the end of your trip. Whether you’re heading to a famous tourist attraction or returning to your hotel after a night out, Kakao T makes getting around Korea easy and stress-free.
Download on the App Store (iOS) | Get it on Google Play (Android)
WOWPASS (와우패스) – The Smartest Card for Travelers in Korea
Think Korea is a cashless country? You’re absolutely right! But if you want to travel like a local, you’ll need more than just your credit card. That’s where WOWPASS comes in.
Why you need it:
WOWPASS is an all-in-one prepaid card designed specifically for foreign travelers. You can easily get one from a WOWPASS machine at major subway stations using your own currency, such as U.S. dollars, euros, or Taiwanese dollars.
Foreigner Tip:
Download the WOWPASS app and you’ll be able to check your balance anytime, anywhere. Plus, you’ll receive instant cashback notifications whenever you shop at convenience stores, cafés, and other participating stores. One card, one app, and you’re ready to explore Korea like a pro!
Download on the App Store (iOS) | Get it on Google Play (Android)
Shuttle Delivery (셔틀딜리버리) – Food Delivery Without a Korean ID
Korea’s food delivery culture is legendary, but major local apps like Baemin or Yogiyo require a strict Korean phone identity verification, making them impossible for tourists to use. Shuttle Delivery solves this completely.
Why you need it:
It is a food delivery app specifically designed for expats and tourists. It offers full English service and connects you to thousands of restaurants in Seoul, Pyeongtaek, and Busan.
Foreigner Tip:
They accept international credit cards and Paypal, allowing you to experience the famous “Han River park food delivery” without any hassle.
Download on the App Store (iOS) | Get it on Google Play (Android)
Conclusion
Ready for Your Korean Adventure?
Downloading these five apps will save you hours of frustration and help you experience South Korea like a true local. Before you leave the airport, make sure you have an active eSIM or SIM card so you can use these apps on the go!
Which app are you downloading first? Let us know in the comments below!