The Essential Apps for Traveling to Korea – Your Guide to Smart Travel in Korea

Apps for Traveling to Korea

The must-have apps for traveling to Korea. Hello, everyone! Today I’m going to share with you the must-have apps and websites for traveling in Korea that I’ve tried and tested. In today’s world, all you need is a smartphone to feel like a local in an unfamiliar city. Whether you’re looking for transportation, food, shopping, or sightseeing information, apps and websites make it easy to find it all. In this post, I’ve organized the must-have apps and sites for traveling to Korea by category. With this guide, anyone can enjoy a smart and convenient trip to Korea. Turn on your phone and follow along! Oh, and by the way, this post is a companion piece to our Korea Travel Guide: 55 Tips for Foreigners Getting to Know Korea series.

Korea Transportation App: End of Worrying About Finding Directions!

The one thing you need when traveling in Korea is a transportation app. The complex subway lines, bus stops, and unfamiliar street names can get you lost, but that’s okay, because with this app, you can easily find your way around.

  • Kakao Map: This is Korea’s leading map app. It supports everything from subway and bus routes to driving directions. You can enter your destination into the app and it will show you the fastest route. The app also supports multiple languages, including Korean, English, and Chinese, which is very convenient for foreign travelers.
Apps for Traveling to Korea

  • Naver Maps: Another popular map app, Naver Maps has excellent real-time traffic information and public transportation routes. It also has a street view and interior view feature, so you can get a realistic view of the streets. It also has very detailed information on restaurants, cafes, and other nearby facilities, which is very helpful when traveling.
Naver Map

  • Subway Terminator: This app is dedicated to the Seoul subway. It shows you a map of Seoul’s complex subway system at a glance and has quick directions. It also shows you a map of the inside of the subway station, a map of the surrounding area, and exit information. It covers subway information not only for Seoul but for the entire metropolitan area.
Subway Terminator

Korea Translation App: Speechless Magic

A translation app is a must-have for foreign travelers who don’t speak Korea, as they often struggle to understand menus, street signs, and conversations with locals. Let’s take a look at some of the magical apps that can help you speak fluently.

  • Papago : This is Korea’s leading translation app. It supports 13 languages, including Korean, and can translate not only text but also images and voice. It’s really interesting to take a picture of a menu or signboard and have it translated in real time. The app interface is intuitive, so anyone can use it easily.
Papago

  • Google Translate: This is a tried-and-true translation app from Google that supports over 100 languages. Text translation is basic, but if you take a picture with your camera, it recognizes the text in the image and translates it instantly. 48 languages can be translated offline, so even if you don’t have data, it’s a must-have travel app.
  • DeepL : This is an AI-based translation app that translates many languages well. It translates Korean very well, even subtle meanings, so you can use the service through the web page or app.

Korea Accommodation Apps: Finding the Best Places to Stay

Finding a clean, comfortable place to stay in a great location at a great price is the cherry on top of any trip to Korea. To do this, you’ll need specialized apps and websites. Here are the best platforms to help you find a place to stay that fits your budget and preferences.

  • Yanolja: This is a popular accommodation app in Korea that allows you to compare and book various types of accommodation, including hotels, motels, pensions, and guesthouses. I love that you can check out today’s deals on the front page of the app. In addition to accommodation, it also sells food, leisure, and beauty products, making it a one-stop shop for travel planning.
Yanolja

  • Airbnb: Airbnb is a popular accommodation sharing platform around the world. In Korea, you can find a wide variety of privately run lodgings, especially in Seoul. You can rent an entire house or book a private room. You can compare locations, prices, amenities, reviews, and more, and you can connect directly with local hosts.
  • Booking.com: This is one of the most popular accommodation booking sites in the world. You can book hotels, hostels, pensions, and more in Korea. The intuitive design makes it easy to search quickly and easily. You can see the location of the property on a map and get detailed information and reviews.

Korea Restaurant App: Finding the Best Restaurants in Korea

One of the best parts of traveling is trying out the local cuisine, but it can be hard to find the real deal in a sea of restaurants. That’s where a restaurant app comes in. Find the best restaurants with tens of thousands of reviews and ratings.

  • KakaoMap: Korea’s favorite restaurant app is KakaoMap. When you select a restaurant in Kakao Map, you’ll see a map of restaurants around your location, along with their ratings. The restaurant details page includes photos of the menu and parking information.
KakaoMap

  • CatchTable: A service for fine dining restaurant reservations and reviews. It’s similar to OpenTable in the US.
Catch Table

  • TripAdvisor: This is a global travel site that features first-hand reviews from travelers around the world. It has information on hotels, tourist attractions, as well as the best restaurants in Korea. If you search for “Korea” on the site and click on the “Restaurants” category, you can easily find foreigners’ favorite Korean restaurants.

Car Rental in Korea: Services for Foreigners Only

  • Hertz: Hertz is a global car rental service that operates in many countries. Since it is a global service, it is convenient to use. Korea has the same driving direction as the United States, not the direction of the United Kingdom, but there are quite a lot of cars in large urban areas such as Seoul and Busan, so it is recommended to use it with caution.
  • WeBring: This is a car rental service exclusively for foreigners. For long-term foreigners, we directly broker used cars, and for short-term foreigners, we provide rental car services. The biggest advantage is that it is a service exclusively for foreigners, so you can get satisfactory service from picking up to returning the car.
위브링

A round up of the essential apps for traveling to Korea

So there you have it, a detailed list of apps and websites that are useful when traveling to Korea. Don’t hesitate to turn them on when you need information on transportation, translation, accommodation, or where to eat. You’ll find everything you need in just a few clicks. With these apps, you won’t be afraid to explore Korea for the first time. With your smart travel buddies by your side, we hope you’ll enjoy exploring all the wonderful places in Korea. Next time, we’ll bring you the top 10 must-see attractions in Korea. We wish you a fun and fulfilling trip to Korea!

How to use Korea SIM, roaming, cellular, and Wi-Fi

Korea SIM

Wondering about Korea SIM, roaming, cellular, and Wi-Fi for your smartphone when traveling to Korea? Hello, everyone! Today we’re going to talk about something you’ll definitely need while traveling in Korea: communication. I’ve traveled abroad more than 50 times, so I’ve had my fair share of communication issues.

It’s frustrating when you get lost in a strange place and can’t get in touch with someone in a hurry. Don’t worry! In this post, I’ll break down the ins and outs of roaming, sim cards, wifi, and more in Korea. With this information, you’ll be able to stay connected in Korea in a convenient and smart way. So, let’s get started! Oh, and this post is a companion piece to our Korea travel guide: 55 Tips for Foreigners Getting to Know Korea series.

Korea Roaming Services: Convenient, but Cost Check is a Must!

The easiest way to communicate while traveling abroad is roaming, which allows you to use the same carrier you use in your home country while abroad. When you arrive in Korea, you’ll be able to connect to a local carrier and use calls, texts, and data. The best part about roaming is that you don’t have to go through the hassle of activation, and it’s much easier to stay in touch because you can use the same phone number you’re used to.

Korea SIM
Woman takes pictures on the phone from the airplane window. Hand with a telephone near the porthole. Airplane wing, scenic view. Beautiful cloud, blue sky. Travel by plane, adventure. Air Transport

But roaming can be expensive, and you’ll see your bill skyrocket with each call and data use, especially data roaming, which can be prohibitively expensive. If you’re going to be roaming, be sure to contact your carrier and sign up for a roaming plan in advance. You’ll also need to keep track of your data usage, as you’ll be charged extra if you go over your allowance.

Korea SIM Cards: Get the Best Value for Money with Local Carriers

If you don’t want to roam, you can also buy a local USIM card, which is a chip that allows you to get service from Korea’s carriers. You just pop it in your phone, get a local number, and use it for calls, texts, and data. The best part is that it’s cheap, and if you sign up for a prepaid plan with a Korea carrier, you can get really good deals on calls, texts, and data.

If you buy it in advance through an online service, you can also pick it up at the airport. You’ll need to activate the card once you’ve purchased it. You’ll need an ID or passport, so make sure you’re prepared. Another thing to keep in mind is that if your phone has a SIM lock, you’ll need to unlock it. Each carrier has different ways to do this, so it’s best to do your research before you go.

Korea eSIM: no need for a separate SIM card, simply register your eSIM to use data

If you have a smartphone that supports eSIM service, including the iPhone, you can simply purchase an eSIM from an internet service and register it in Korea to start using your smartphone’s data without the hassle of installing an additional SIM card. Some eSIM services are available in your home country, while others are available globally.

Korea Wi-Fi Roaming & Eggs: What If You Need Internet Access?

If you’re a heavy data user or need to connect multiple devices at the same time, I recommend using a Wi-Fi service. First, Wi-Fi roaming allows you to access your local carrier’s Wi-Fi zone. It’s often included in your roaming plan, so be sure to check when you sign up. Wi-Fi roaming allows you to use free Wi-Fi in cafes, subways, and other places in Korea.

If you want to be able to use Wi-Fi anywhere, anytime, you can rent a pocket Wi-Fi, or Wi-Fi egg. Wi-Fi eggs are portable Wi-Fi devices that allow you to connect multiple smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more simultaneously with a single egg. The daily rental fee is a bit higher than roaming or a cellular tower, but the trade-off is that you don’t have to worry about data. You can easily rent one at airports or local rental shops.

Communication Tips for Traveling to Korea: Take Advantage of the Free Wi-Fi!

If you’re looking to save money on your travels, you’ll want to take advantage of free Wi-Fi. Korea is well-equipped with free Wi-Fi in public places, public transportation, and shops, especially at franchise cafes like Starbucks and McDonald’s. There are also free Wi-Fi zones in subway stations and airports, so if you look for them, you can enjoy the internet without worrying about data.

Another thing I recommend is the Wi-Fi Map app for travelers in Korea, which shows the location of free Wi-Fi zones on a map. You can search your current location on the app to find free Wi-Fi nearby.

So there you have it, a detailed look at the essential communication options for traveling in Korea. From the pros and cons of roaming, sim cards, and Wi-Fi services to the best ways to use free Wi-Fi, we’ve given you all the insider tips you need to know. If you’re traveling abroad and have communication issues, you’re halfway there. Use these tips to help you choose the right communication option for you. If you do your homework and research before you leave, you’ll be able to stay in touch and enjoy the internet throughout your trip.

I hope you all have a fun and smart trip to Korea, and I’ll be back next time with a list of must-try foods in Korea. Until then, happy communication-free travels!

Korea outlet guide: Using electronics in Korea

Korea outlet

What do the Korea outlets look like, important information for traveling with electronics? Today I’m going to share with you some essential information if you’re planning a trip to South Korea: electronics and adapters to use in Korea. When traveling abroad, you’re going to be using a lot of electronics, such as smartphones, laptops, cameras, and more, but will your chargers work in Korea?

In this post, I’ll tell you all about the voltage and outlet types in Korea, as well as tips for choosing an adapter. With this guide, you’ll be able to use your precious electronics safely. Let’s take a look! Oh, and this article is a companion piece to our Korea travel guide: 55 Tips for Foreigners Getting to Know Korea series.

Do you know the voltage and frequency in Korea?

The voltage used in Korea is 220V and the frequency is 60Hz. On the other hand, some countries such as the United States and Canada use a voltage of 110V and a frequency of 60Hz. If your electronics are 110V-only, plugging them directly into an Korea outlet may damage them or cause a fire. On the other hand, if you want to use electronics purchased in Korea in a 110V country, a pigtail adapter is not enough and you need a transformer. Many electronics on the market these days are multi-voltage, supporting voltages ranging from 110V to 240V, so you can use them in Korea with just an adapter.

Korea outlet

Korea outlet shape, will it fit my plug?

The standard outlet in Korea is round with two holes, and the plugs for electrical appliances are also round with two pins, which is compatible with the type C or F plugs used in many European and Asian countries. However, type A or B plugs, which are more common in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and other countries, cannot be used directly in Korean outlets. Japan uses the same outlets as Korea, but many plugs have a grounding pin, so you may need an adapter. It’s a good idea to check the shape of your electronics plugs beforehand.

한국 콘센트

Choosing an Korea adapter, how do I do it?

So, which adapter should you choose for your trip to Korea? There are so many different types of adapters on the market that it can be overwhelming. The best thing to do is to buy an adapter that fits into Korea’s outlets. Any adapter that accepts Type C or Type F plugs will work in Korea, but there are also many universal adapters that support outlets in major countries around the world. One multi-adapter will allow you to use your electronics wherever you go, whether you’re traveling in Europe, the U.S., or Asia. Shop around in travel stores or online to find the right one for you.

여행용 어댑터

Buying electronics in Korea, what to look for?

If you’re traveling to Korea, you’re likely to find yourself in the market for electronics. Korea is often referred to as an electronics paradise, with a wide variety of great products. But when it comes time to buy, you’re probably wondering what you’re getting and if it’s compatible. When buying electronics in Korea, make sure to check the product specs to see what voltage range it supports. If it says it supports 110V to 220V, you’ll be able to use it in your home country with an adapter. It’s also a good idea to check battery life, after-sales support, and language support before you buy. It’s also worth noting that you can save money by shopping at duty-free shops!

Traveler’s tip: Power banks and multi-chargers

There’s nothing worse than getting lost and your smartphone battery dies, or your camera dies and you don’t want to miss out on a life-changing shot. It’s always a good idea to pack a power bank with a large capacity. You can choose from slim ones that can hold a charge or two, or larger ones that can hold a charge over and over again.

보조 배터리

Another item I’d like to recommend is a multi-charger. These days, there are many chargers that support multiple devices at once, such as smartphones, tablets, cameras, and more. A multi-charger can save you a lot of packing space by eliminating the need to carry multiple chargers.

멀티 충전기

Today, we’ve covered everything you need to know about using your electronics safely and conveniently while traveling in Korea, from the country’s voltage and outlet types, to tips on choosing adapters, to local buying tips and useful items. Using your electronics while traveling abroad is really important, but many people don’t do enough preparation beforehand. I hope you all have a great time in Korea without having to worry about your electronics, and I’ll be back next time with tips on how to take must-see photos of each of Korea’s landmarks. Until then, bye!

Korean Healthcare System: 3 Things to Know When You Get Sick in Korea

What to do if you get sick while traveling in Korea? Today I’d like to talk about the Korean healthcare system. Have you ever had a health issue while traveling abroad? I’ve been traveling around the world for over 10 years and have experienced the healthcare systems of many countries. Today, I’m going to share with you what to do if you get sick while traveling in Korea, and where to find reliable medical care.

If you’re scared to go to the doctor in a foreign country, don’t worry – after reading this guide, you’ll be able to get medical care in Korea with confidence. Medical information is essential when traveling abroad, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, so let’s get started. Oh, and by the way, this is part 24 of the Complete Guide to Living in Korea for Expats.

What makes the Korean healthcare system so special?

Korea is known around the world for its high quality of healthcare, especially for its fast and accurate diagnosis, advanced medical equipment, and reasonable healthcare costs. In fact, the 2021 Bloomberg Healthcare Efficiency Index ranked Korea #1 in Asia and #4 globally. Most hospitals are comfortable and modern, and the medical staff is highly professional.

Korean Healthcare System

Larger hospitals have international clinics that offer multilingual services, including English. From simple consultations to hospitalizations and surgeries, foreigners can receive medical care with confidence. Of course, if you have travel insurance, you can save a lot of money on medical expenses.

Where to go if you get sick in Korea?

In Korea, there are primary, secondary, and tertiary medical centers. For minor symptoms such as a runny nose or cough, you can go to a local doctor, and for hospitalization or further tests, you can go to a general hospital or university hospital. In case of emergency, it is safest to call 119 and call an ambulance. (In countries such as the United States, the emergency number is 911, but Korea has a different 119 number.)

  1. Primary care organizations (clinics, hospitals)
  • It’s great for mild illnesses like colds, body aches, and indigestion.
  • They are located in every neighborhood, so they are easily accessible.
  • Many are closed at night or on weekends, so be sure to check their hours.
  1. Secondary healthcare organizations (clinics, hospitals)
  • When you need to be hospitalized, have surgery, or need specialized tests.
  • It’s equipped with CT, MRI, and other tests.
  • It has a wide range of specialties, so you can see multiple doctors at once.
  • Waiting times can be long, so make an appointment.
  1. Tertiary Healthcare Organizations (Advanced General Hospitals)
  • Go when you need advanced medical care, including serious illnesses and rare diseases.
  • They have the latest medical equipment and specialized medical staff.
  • Many have international treatment centers for foreign patients.
  • Medical treatment can be expensive, so make sure you have travel insurance.
  1. Emergency Room
  • If you have an emergency, don’t hesitate to call 911.
  • Follow the paramedics’ instructions to the nearest emergency room.
  • ERs are open 24 hours a day, and the order of care is determined by severity.
  • Mild cases may have a longer wait.

What to expect when using hospitals in Korea

  1. Check your health insurance coverage
  • Korea is covered by the National Health Insurance, but short-term foreigners are not.
  • If you have travel insurance, check with your insurer to see if you’re covered.
  • If you’re not covered, you’ll have to pay out of pocket.
  1. Check your doctor’s office hours and appointments
  • Most hospitals are open from 9am to 6pm on weekdays.
  • Be aware that they stop for lunch (usually 12-1pm).
  • It’s hard to get in to see a doctor at a BIG5 hospital without an appointment.
  • It’s a good idea to call the International Care Center or the department first and make an appointment.
  1. Communication, how do we do it?
  • In larger hospitals, the International Care Center can provide foreign language interpretation.
  • Many of the medical staff also speak English.
  • If communication is difficult, you can use apps like Papago and Google Translate.
  • Organizing your symptoms and translating medical terminology ahead of time will make your visit easier.
  • Most doctors will be able to communicate in conversational English.

We even have medical tourism services for foreign patients!

Recently, Korea has been focusing on medical tourism to attract foreign patients, and various programs are available to combine high-quality medical care with sightseeing. If you’re planning a medical checkup, cosmetic surgery, or dermatology treatment, it’s worth checking out medical tourism packages, which often include accommodation, transportation, and tickets to tourist attractions. The government-run Medical Korea website provides a wealth of information, including medical tourism guidebooks in different languages, as well as medical interpreter reservations and consultation services.

메디컬 코리아

Today, we’ve learned more about navigating the Korean healthcare system for international travelers. To avoid panicking when you get sick in Korea, it’s important to know how to navigate the system and what to expect. After reading this guide, you’ll be able to get the medical care you need in Korea with confidence.

There’s nothing more important than your health when traveling abroad. We hope this information helps you have a healthy trip to Korea, and we wish you many wonderful memories without getting sick.

How to dress for each season in Korea, 4 season styling tips for travelers

Hello, everyone! Are you wondering how to dress for each season in Korea? Today, we’re going to show you how to dress according to the seasons in Korea, including tips on how to style the same outfit for different seasons, as well as some must-have items for international travelers. With this guide, you’ll be able to enjoy Korea’s four seasons in style, so get out your calendars! Oh, and this article is a companion piece to our Korea travel guide: 55 Tips for Getting to Know Korea for Foreigners series.

Dress for each season in Korea: Understanding Korea’s 4 Seasons

If you’re planning a trip to Korea and want to learn how to dress for each season, check out our Korea weather: 4 seasons for expats guide first. Korea has four distinct seasons, which can be quite an experience if you’re coming from the tropics or somewhere like California in the US where the temperature is similar year-round. From hot, sunny summers to snowy, icy winters, and everything in between, spring is perfect for getting out and about, and fall is all about the colors of the surrounding nature, each season has its own charms, but you’ll enjoy your trip even more if you know how to style for each season.

Spring: Fashion blooms with the sunshine

Spring in Korea runs from March through May, and while there’s a warmth in the air after a cold winter, it’s also a time of year with big weather swings and blossom chills. March and April are especially good months to bring your outerwear. Try pairing your favorite layers like trench coats, cardigans, and jackets with scarves and shawls. As we move into May, the weather gets warmer and warmer, and a light jacket over a lightweight shirt, blouse, or dress is all you need to make your outfit feel like spring.

Spring essentials: trench coats, jean jackets, striped shirts, brightly colored knits/cardigans, cotton pants, and slip-ons/loafers.

dress for each season in Korea

Summer: a feast of hot sun and fresh days

Korea’s summers, which run from June through August, are hot – literally. Temperatures in the high 30s and humid air can put a strain on your wardrobe. It’s important to choose lightweight, breezy fabrics for this time of year. Sweat-wicking, breathable materials like linen, cotton, and rayon are perfect. Expect to see a lot of skin-baring items like no-sleeves, short-sleeved tees, shorts, and skirts. Don’t forget to pack a thin cardigan or shirt to layer on top when you’re in an air-conditioned room.

Summer essentials: linen shirts, white t-shirts, denim shorts, pleated skirts, sandals/slippers, straw hats, and sunglasses.

Fall: A blend of crisp air and muted colors

Autumn in Korea runs from September through November. The leaves are changing colors, the skies are getting higher, and it’s the perfect time to go out and enjoy the crisp breeze. The base of your fall wardrobe should be a cotton t-shirt or tops, with jeans or slacks, and then add layers. Trench coats, leather jackets, and windbreakers are the perfect seasonal staples. This is the time of year for muted, deep colors like browns and burgundies rather than bright tones.

Fall essentials: trench coats, biker jackets, knit cardigans, sweaters, jeans, cotton pants, boots/sneakers

Winter: a glowing white Christmas with coziness

It’s finally December in Korea, and while the temperatures may be below freezing, it’s a romantic time to celebrate a white Christmas. The key to winter fashion is to stay warm and look good at the same time. Long outerwear like puffers and coats are a must, and for inner layers, choose cozy pieces like polarti, turtleneck knits, and furries. Accent your look with a scarf or muffler and you’re good to go! Cool colors like white, gray, and navy are perfect for this look.

Winter essentials: long puffers, puffer jumpers, handmade coats, turtlenecks, cable knits, leggings, ankle boots, knitted beanies, gloves

Today, I’ve shared with you my tips on how to dress for each season in Korea and what items to pack. Korea has four distinct seasons, and it’s really important to dress for the season to fully appreciate its charm. I hope you’ll enjoy your time in Korea by dressing smart and stylish. Don’t forget to check out my must-haves, and next time, I’ll share my top picks for each of Korea’s attractions. Until then, happy traveling!