Essential apps for traveling in Korea

Start with these four

1. Naver Map: local place search, walking routes and public-transport directions.
2. Papago: text, voice and image translation for menus and signs.
3. KorailTalk or KORAIL: official intercity train and KTX searches and reservations.
4. VISITKOREA: official destination information, travel notices and trip-planning resources.

Add apps only when your trip needs them

For taxis, use a traveler-friendly service that accepts your registration and payment method. For restaurant reservations, delivery or prepaid travel cards, install only the service you plan to use. Availability, supported cards and phone verification can change.

Set up your phone before departure

• Enable roaming or arrange an eSIM/SIM with enough data for maps.
• Download Korean for offline translation where the app supports it.
• Allow camera access for translating signs and scanning rental-bike QR codes.
• Keep battery-saving mode and a portable charger ready.
• Save the 1330 Korea Travel Helpline details for travel assistance.

What not to depend on

Do not make one app your only copy of a booking. Keep train tickets, accommodation details and insurance contacts in screenshots or offline files. A low battery, failed login or weak signal should not stop the day.