Introduction
Living in Korea can be an exciting and immersive experience, but getting integrated into society and navigating the digital age can sometimes be a challenge. Thankfully, there are several essential apps that can help make your life in Korea much easier and more convenient. From communication to transportation and even shopping, these apps are a must-have for anyone living or traveling in Korea.
Translation Apps
When living or traveling in a foreign country like Korea, translation apps can be extremely helpful. Two popular translation apps in Korea are Google Translate and Papago.
Google Translate is a widely-used translation app that supports various languages, including Korean. It provides text translation, voice translation, and even image translation, making it convenient for understanding signs and menus.
On the other hand, Papago is a translation app developed by Naver, one of the largest search engines in Korea. It offers accurate translations and additional features like conversation mode, which allows you to have real-time conversations with someone who speaks a different language.
Both Google Translate and Papago can assist you in communicating and understanding Korean language and culture more effectively. Whether you need to translate a menu, ask for directions, or have a conversation with a local, these translation apps can be your reliable companions during your time in Korea.
KakaoTalk
Considered the number one messaging app in Korea, KakaoTalk is a must-have for anyone living in the country. Virtually all Koreans use it, making it incredibly easy to connect with friends, colleagues, and even strangers. You can ask for someone's KakaoTalk ID and start chatting instantly. But KakaoTalk is not just a messaging app - it also allows you to send gifts, buy concert tickets, and even acts as a legitimate digital certificate.
Maps
Navigating the streets of Korea can be a breeze with the help of mapping apps. Two popular options are KakaoMetro for subway information and KakaoMap / NaverMap for general navigation. Sometimes, certain locations might not appear on one app but will on the other, so having both installed can be helpful. Personally, I prefer NaverMap for its accuracy and user-friendly interface.
Note: Google Maps does not work correctly in Korea. You will find out once you arrive! Because Google has limited access and coverage in Korea. It works well for public transportation like Subway and Bus.
Concert Tickets
If you're a music lover, attending concerts in Korea is a must-do experience. To stay updated on upcoming shows, there are several ticketing apps you should have on your phone. Interpark, Yes24, Ticketlink, and MelonTicket are just a few examples of platforms where you can find tickets for your favorite artists. Make it a habit to check these apps regularly to never miss out on an exciting concert.
Shopping
Online shopping in Korea is incredibly convenient, with fast and reliable delivery services. One of the top shopping apps in Korea is Coupang, often referred to as Korea's version of Amazon. It offers a wide range of products and provides next-day delivery for long-term residents. Another app worth mentioning is 당근마켓 Karrot, which functions as a marketplace for buying used items. You can easily message sellers, meet them in person, and make transactions in cash or through wire transfer.
Food Delivery
Korea is famous for its food delivery culture, and it's not just limited to pizza and fast food. Apps like BAEMIN and Yogiyo allow you to order from a variety of restaurants and have your favorite meals delivered right to your doorstep. Whether you're craving Korean cuisine or international flavors, these apps make it incredibly convenient to satisfy your hunger. If you don’t have a Korean Credit Card you can use the App Shuttle which is a food delivery for foreigners.
Transportation
Transportation apps make getting around in Korea much easier. One such app is KakaoT Taxi, which functions similarly to Uber. With this app, you can request a taxi based on your location and pay through the app. For train travel, there is KoRail, a convenient app for purchasing train tickets. This app is similar to KT (Korea Train) in the past. Additionally, KoBus allows you to take express buses to different cities. These buses are a cheaper alternative to trains and offer a comfortable and spacious travel experience.
Payment
When it comes to making payments, KakaoPay is a popular app among long-term residents. Similar to Paypal, it allows you to easily send money to friends and split bills, making transactions more convenient, especially after a big dinner. You can send and receive money directly from KakaoTalk App!
Conclusion
These essential apps mentioned above are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the digital landscape in Korea. Whether you're a student, an expat, or a traveler, having these apps on your phone will greatly enhance your experience and help you navigate daily life with ease.
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About the Author
Kim Ninja (Huy-Kim Nguyen)
Cloud Engineer / WebApp Developer 💻
Content Creator Bridging Korea 🇰🇷 to the World 🌎
Startup Founder based in Seoul, South Korea 🚀
The blog published by Kim Ninja (Huy-Kim Nguyen) is available for informational purposes only and is not considered legal advice on any subject matter.
