Living in Korea without smartphone apps can be seriously uncomfortable. Korea is truly the land of apps. With ultra-fast internet and everyone practically glued to their phones, whether you're studying, working, or just traveling here—these apps will make your life way easier and smarter.
I've personally used all of these and can tell you: they’re absolute must-haves! Let me show you the 10 essential apps in Korea, why they’re awesome, and a few handy tips for each.
1. KakaoTalk (The “national” messenger in Korea)
If you live in Korea, you need KakaoTalk. This is how everyone chats—friends, schools, companies, even government offices use it for announcements. You can send messages, make voice and video calls for free, and share photos or files. Tons of other apps also let you log in using Kakao.
- Key Features: Chat, voice/video calls, file sharing, notification messages (from banks, deliveries, etc.)
Tip: If you make a Korean friend, the first thing they’ll ask is, “What’s your Kakao ID?”
2. Naver Map or KakaoMap (The best navigation apps in Korea)
Subways and buses are great in Korea, but when you get lost or need the fastest route, these apps are lifesavers. Unlike Google Maps (which doesn't work properly here sometimes), these are built for Korea.
- Key Features: Real-time transit info, navigation (walking, driving, biking), restaurant & café search, street view
- Tip: Tap your destination to see how long it takes. You can also share your live location—super helpful!
3. Coupang (Korea’s Amazon-level online shopping app)
Need anything? Search Coupang first. They sell everything—from groceries to electronics. “Rocket Delivery” means your order can arrive next morning, sometimes even before 7am!
- Key Features: Super fast delivery, big selection, regular sales
- Tip: Join “Rocket Wow” for free shipping and extra perks like Coupang Play (like Netflix), and connect with Coupang Eats for food delivery!
4. Baemin(Food Delivery) / Coupang Eats ( Food delivery heaven 🍕)
Korea = Delivery paradise. Craving chicken, pizza, or spicy rice cakes? These apps let you order from thousands of places. Pay in the app or in cash when the food arrives.
- Key Features: Food delivery, real-time tracking, reviews, discounts
- Tip: Check the minimum order amount and delivery fee before placing your order.
5. Naver (Korea’s Google)
Naver is basically the Korean Google. It has everything—search, news, shopping, blogs, even online dictionaries and awesome webtoons.
- Key Features: Search engine, blogs, shopping, online community, dictionary
- Tip: Looking for restaurant reviews or travel tips? Check out Naver Blogs—they’re super detailed!
6. Kakao T (Kakao Taxi)
No more waving at cabs! Just open this app, set your destination, and call a taxi with one tap. It’ll show you the estimated fare and driver info. You can pay in-app, by card, or even with your T-money.
- Key Features: Taxi booking, car navigation, parking, driver services
- Tip: Register your credit card for faster and easier payments.
7. Papago (Translation app by Naver)
Papago is made by Naver, and it’s way better for Korean than Google Translate. It understands Korean sentence structure and culture more naturally.
- Key Features: Natural translation (especially Korean ↔ English/Chinese/Japanese)
- Tip: You can choose between formal/informal speech—super handy when talking with elders or new friends!
8. Karrot Market (Danggeun Market) – Local secondhand marketplace
Karrot Market is a must-have if you're living in Korea! Want to buy or sell secondhand stuff easily? Use Karrot! It's based on your local neighborhood, so it’s perfect for finding cheap furniture, clothes, or even meeting friendly neighbors.
- Key Features: Local secondhand deals, job boards, community chats
- Tip: Great when you first arrive or when moving out. Always meet in safe places and chat first!
9. T-money – Your mobile transportation card
In Korea, you need a transit card. But no need to carry one—you can just use your phone as a mobile T-money card. Tap to pay on buses, subways, even some convenience stores!
- Key Features: Public transit payments, balance check, mobile recharge
- Tip: You can use it with the Climate Card, an unlimited monthly pass for buses, subways, and even public bikes like “Ddareungi” in Seoul!
10. Kakao Pay – Your smart wallet
Kakao Pay turns your phone into a wallet. You can send money to friends, pay at stores, use it for transit, and even check your balance all in one place. It’s connected to KakaoTalk, so it’s super convenient.
- Key Features: Quick payments, money transfers, linked to cards and bank accounts
Tip: Make sure to turn on NFC! Connect your bank account for smooth transactions.
Ready to dive into Korea like a local? 📱
Download these apps and you’ll handle everyday life here like a pro!
If you want, I can also create illustrated cards for each app, or make a printable guide. Let me know! 😊
