If you're planning a trip to South Korea, you may find that Google Maps doesn’t work as expected. To navigate more effectively, it’s important to use local map apps developed by Korea’s major search engines.

Why Google Maps Doesn’t Work Properly in Korea


Are you visiting Seoul and noticed that Google Maps doesn't quite do the job?

Maybe you’ve tried searching for a restaurant or getting directions, and something felt off:

  • No driving directions
  • Missing walking paths
  • Inaccurate or incomplete location data

Here’s why:

South Korea restricts the export of high-precision map data to foreign servers for national security reasons.

Since Google Maps operates on overseas servers, it’s unable to access complete local map data.

This policy is closely tied to South Korea’s security situation. Technically still at war with North Korea, the country carefully controls access to geographic information that could reveal military or sensitive infrastructure.

🇰🇷 What Locals Use: Naver Map & Kakao Map

NAVER MAP & KAKAO MAP

South Korea’s two major search engines, Naver and Daum (by Kakao), each provide powerful map apps that are widely used by locals.

The best part? Both apps support multiple languages and offer far more accurate and detailed navigation than Google Maps in Korea.

Naver Map

  • Available in English, Japanese, and Chinese
  • Supports bus, subway, walking, and driving directions
  • Accurate listings for local restaurants, cafes, landmarks, and shops
  • Romanized text (English spelling) is supported for searches

🔗 Download for iOS
🔗 Android version available in app stores - Naver map download

Kakao Map

  • High-resolution street maps and real-time traffic updates
  • Detailed info for subway exits, bus stops, and public transit
  • Widely used for daily commuting
  • English interface is available, but Korean search terms may yield better results

🔗 Download for iOS - KAKAO MAP
🔗 Android version available in app store - KAKAO MAP download

Tips for Using Korean Map Apps

  • Search using Romanized names or copy-paste Korean text from Google or other sources for best accuracy
  • The app interface might seem unfamiliar, but try using the “Nearby” or “Directions” features
  • For public transport, Naver Map provides detailed and reliable transfer info

Final Thoughts

Using Naver Map or Kakao Map will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
You’ll gain access to more detailed directions, local favorite spots, and real-time transit data.

Google Maps may work in many countries, but in Korea, Naver and Kakao are the real go-tos.
They even support multiple languages — so don’t hesitate to install one before you explore!

✨ Bonus Tip!

Planning to visit Cheonggyecheon Stream in downtown Seoul?
Search for “책읽는 맑은냇가” (which means “The Stream for Reading Books”) in Naver Map to discover a quiet reading area by the water — a hidden gem in the heart of the city.

https://2.movewealthdaily.com/2025/05/peaceful-places-in-seoul-why-you-should.html