If you are visiting Korea, NAVER Map is useful for three basic tasks: finding places, checking public-transport routes, and saving locations you want to visit.
The app currently supports map interfaces in Korean, English, Simplified Chinese and Japanese.
English navigation is also supported.
1. Change NAVER Map to English first
On Android, NAVER’s current help page says you can change the language from:
MY → Settings → Language
Then choose English.
On iPhone, language settings may also be controlled through:
iPhone Settings → NAVER Map → Preferred Language
If the Preferred Language option is missing, add one of NAVER Map’s supported languages under the iPhone’s general language settings first.
2. Search for a place
Use the main search bar to enter:
- an attraction name;
- a restaurant or café name;
- a station;
- a Korean address;
- or a category such as “convenience store”.
NAVER says its current app combines searches for places, buses and subway information in a single search bar.
For famous tourist attractions, an English name will often be enough.
For a small restaurant, café or local business, keeping the Korean name from your booking confirmation, Instagram page, hotel message, or travel note can still be useful.
This is especially helpful when several businesses have similar English names.
3. Save both the English and Korean place name
Before leaving your hotel, save both versions when possible.
Example:
Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)
Do the same for your hotel.
If you need to show the destination to a taxi driver or hotel staff member, the Korean name can save time.
4. Open the place page before starting directions
Do not immediately tap the first search result.
Check:
- the place name;
- address;
- map position;
- photos;
- opening information if available;
- and nearby station.
This is especially important for chain restaurants and cafés.
The same brand can have many branches.
5. Use public-transit directions
After selecting the correct destination, open Directions and choose public transport.
NAVER Map provides transit directions and can show bus and subway routes, real-time arrival information, and getting-on/getting-off notifications where supported.
Compare at least two routes when they are offered.
A route with one extra stop can sometimes be easier than a route with several transfers.
| What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Number of transfers | Fewer transfers are easier with luggage |
| Walking distance | Important in rain, summer heat or winter |
| Bus vs. subway | Subway routes may be simpler for a first trip |
| Final walk | Large stations can have many exits |
| Arrival time | Useful when you have a reservation |
Direct screenshot recommended: one English public-transit route with private location information removed.
6. Check the final station and exit
Getting to the right station is only part of the trip.
Large subway stations can have many exits.
Before getting off the train, check the route again and note:
- the exit number;
- remaining walking distance;
- and whether you need to cross a large road.
This small check can prevent a long detour.
7. Save places before your trip
NAVER Map includes a Bookmark feature.
You can save restaurants, attractions and other places you want to revisit.
Instead of keeping dozens of screenshots, create simple lists.
For example:
- Seoul — Food
- Seoul — Cafés
- Seoul — Shopping
- Busan — Places
- Hotel / Airport
This makes it easier to decide what is nearby when your plans change.
8. What languages does NAVER Map support?
NAVER’s current help documentation lists:
- Korean;
- English;
- Simplified Chinese;
- Japanese.
The current Google Play listing also says the app supports Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese maps, with English navigation.
One limitation is worth knowing.
NAVER’s help center says Place Agent responses are currently provided only in Korean.
An English interface does not mean every feature is fully available in English.
9. Do foreign tourists need a Korean phone number?
Not for basic map search and directions.
For account-based services, requirements can differ.
In June 2026, NAVER introduced passport verification for foreign users.
NAVER says eligible foreign users can use supported NAVER Map services such as bookings, orders and payments through passport verification without a Korean mobile phone number.
That does not mean every restaurant or booking product works in exactly the same way.
The merchant, payment method and individual service can still have separate conditions.
10. Common mistakes
Searching only the translated name
Keep the Korean place name as a backup.
Choosing the wrong branch
Check the address and map position.
Looking only at travel time
Transfers and walking distance matter too.
Not saving your hotel
Save your accommodation before you start exploring.
Assuming every feature is fully translated
The core map interface has multilingual support, but some functions may still be Korean-only.
Quick checklist before leaving your hotel
- NAVER Map installed
- English language selected
- Hotel saved
- Korean hotel name saved
- First destination saved
- Route checked
- Subway exit checked
- Mobile data available
With those basics ready, NAVER Map becomes much easier to use during a first trip to Korea.
FAQ
Is NAVER Map available in English?
Yes.
NAVER currently supports an English map interface.
Can I use NAVER Map for buses and subways?
Yes.
The app provides public-transit directions and related bus and subway information.
Should I save Korean place names?
Yes.
It is a useful backup for small businesses, similar place names and communication with local staff.
Is Google Maps useless in Korea?
No.
Different map services can still be useful for different tasks.
This guide focuses on NAVER Map because it offers detailed local place and transit functions for Korea.
Leave a Reply