Top 7 Transportation Apps in Korea. You Must Use
South Korea has one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world.
However, for foreigners visiting or living in Korea, navigating subways, buses, and taxis can feel confusing at first.
That’s why having the right transportation apps is essential.
In this article, we introduce the Top 7 must-have transportation apps in Korea for foreigners.
1. Naver Map
Naver Map is the most accurate navigation app in Korea.
It provides real-time bus and subway routes, walking directions, and estimated travel time.
Main Features
Subway & bus route guidance
Real-time traffic information
English interface
Nearby restaurant & place search
Why recommended:
More accurate than Google Maps in Korea.
Download
2. Kakao Map
Kakao Map is another popular map app widely used in Korea.
It is especially useful for walking routes and place searches.
Main Features
Real-time bus & subway tracking
Voice navigation
Walking directions
English interface
Download
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.daum.android.map
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/app/kakaomap-korea-no-1-map/id304608425
3. Kakao T (Taxi App)
Kakao T is Korea’s most popular taxi and transportation service app.
Foreigners can easily call a taxi and pay by card.
Main Features
Taxi booking
Estimated fare display
Card payment
English support
Download
4. Subway Korea / Kakao Subway
This app is dedicated to subway navigation and is very useful in major cities like Seoul and Busan.
Main Features
Real-time train arrival time
Exit number information
Last train time
Multi-language support (English, Chinese, Japanese)
Download
(Search “Subway Korea” in app stores if the link differs by region.)
5. T-money GO (Transportation Card App)
T-money is Korea’s transportation card used for buses, subways, and taxis.
This app allows you to check balance and manage your card.
Main Features
Balance check
Usage history
Mobile transportation card
Recharge information
Download
6. Express Bus / Intercity Bus App
If you plan to travel between cities (Seoul to Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, etc.), these apps are essential.
Recommended Apps
Express Bus T-money
Intercity Bus Reservation App
Main Features
Bus schedules
Seat reservations
Mobile tickets
Download (Express Bus T-money)
7. Korail Talk (Train App)
Korail Talk is the official train reservation app for KTX and regular trains in Korea.
Main Features
Train schedule search
Seat reservation
Mobile tickets
English service available
Download
Helpful Tips for Foreigners Using Transportation Apps in Korea
Naver Map and Kakao Map are more accurate than Google Maps in Korea
Use a T-money card to get transfer discounts between bus and subway
Kakao T is the safest and easiest taxi app
Rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM, 5:30–7:00 PM) are very crowded
Always check subway exit numbers to find your destination easily
Conclusion
Getting around Korea is very easy if you use the right transportation apps.
With Naver Map, Kakao Map, Kakao T, Subway Korea, and Korail Talk, you can travel smoothly across the country.
Whether you are visiting Korea for travel, study, or work, installing these apps before arrival will save you time and stress.
