Planning a trip to Korea?
Here are must-have apps to help you experience Korea like a local.
Quick Summary
- App for Messaging: KakaoTalk
- App for Restaurant Reservations: Catch Table
- Apps for Getting Around Korea: Naver Map, Kakao T, Korail Talk, Ddareungi (Seoul Bike)
- App for Translation: Papago
- App for Food Delivery: Yogiyo
1. KakaoTalk
This is THE go-to messaging app in Korea. Even my grandma uses it!
KakaoTalk is not only used for chatting with friends but also with businesses that offer customer support through the app.
It’s free, fun, and filled with cute emoticons.
Plus, it’s the easiest way to stay connected with locals and new friends you meet during your trip.
So, if you’re in Korea, you’ll want this on your phone!
2. Catch Table
Feeling hungry?
Catch Table is the app for restaurant reservations.
Korea’s food scene is incredible, and this app helps you secure a table, even at the hottest spots in town.
It’s perfect for avoiding wait times and making sure you’re all set for that must-try Korean BBQ or trendy café experience.
Just reserve a table ahead of time and get straight to the good stuff!
3. Naver Map
I love using Google Maps everywhere else, but in Korea, Naver Map is king!
This app will help you navigate your way around like a pro when you’re walking, driving, or using public transportation.
You don’t need to download separate apps like the Seoul Subway app. On Naver Map, you can also check subway platform numbers so you know where to stand for the quickest transfer.
Pro Tip: Save the places you want to visit ahead of time so you can pull them up quickly when you’re out and about. It’s super handy for walking directions, finding public transport, and just generally not getting lost.
4. Kakao T
Need a ride?
Download Kakao T for quick and reliable taxi options!
It’s like Korea’s answer to Uber.
You can pay your driver with cash, your T-money card, or a credit card.
You’ll be zipping around like a local in no time!
Quick Tip: If your friend needs a taxi, you can also call Kakao T (taxi) for them as long as you can coordinate. The drivers won’t reject their rides.
Update: Uber is available in Korea now! Kakao T will still be great as a backup plan.
5. Korail Talk
Planning to take a train or hop on the high-speed KTX?
Korail Talk is the app for booking and managing train tickets in Korea.
It’s great for traveling between cities and exploring different regions of the country.
From Seoul to Busan or anywhere in between, Korail Talk has your travel needs covered.
You can, of course, buy a ticket at any train station, but the app is great for introverts like me. You can also easily choose your seat!
6. Ddareungi (Seoul Bike)
Looking for a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city?
Check out Ddareungi (따릉이), Seoul’s public bike-sharing app.
Grab a bike, pedal around the city, and discover the hidden gems of Seoul.
It’s a great way to see more while staying active. And it’s a fun, budget-friendly option!
7. Papago
Papago is your translation BFF, especially for Korean!
I love using Google Translate app for its instant camera translation when I’m abroad trying to figure out what to order or buy.
Papago is great for English to Korean as you can choose the honorific option.
Whether you’re translating signs, menus, or having a chat with locals, Papago will help you sound respectful and polite.
8. Yogiyo
Want to experience Korea’s famous delivery culture?
Yogiyo lets you order food from a variety of restaurants.
A cool feature is that many restaurants allow you to pay the delivery driver at the door, so you don’t need an ARC (Alien Registration Card) to order!
All you need is a Korean phone number (the one that starts with 010 and you can get one with some tourist eSIM cards) and you’re set.
Baemin (Baedal Minjok) has a wider range of restaurants in most areas. But I’ve heard that it’s hard to order with them as a non-Korean.
Korean fried chicken delivered to Hangang Park, anyone?
Conclusion
With these apps on your phone, you’ll be more than ready for your trip to Korea.
Download them now and enjoy your Korean adventure like a local.
Safe travels!
