When traveling to Seoul, installing certain mobile apps can greatly enhance your experience and make navigating the city easier. Here are some essential apps to consider:

1. Naver Map or KakaoMap

• Why: These apps provide accurate and detailed maps of Seoul, including walking, driving, and public transit directions.
• Features: English language support, real-time traffic updates, and navigation.

2. KakaoTalk

• Why: The most popular messaging app in South Korea, essential for communicating with locals and making new friends.
• Features: Free text messaging, voice, and video calls.

3. Google Translate

• Why: Useful for translating Korean text and speech into English and vice versa.
• Features: Camera translation, conversation mode, and offline translation.

4. Subway Korea

• Why: Provides detailed information about Seoul’s extensive subway system.
• Features: Route planning, station information, and timetable updates.

5. KakaoTaxi

• Why: A convenient way to book taxis in Seoul.
• Features: Easy taxi booking, estimated fares, and English language support.

6. Airbnb or Booking.com

• Why: For finding and booking accommodations.
• Features: Reviews, maps, and booking management.

7. Klook or Trazy

• Why: For booking tours, tickets, and activities.
• Features: Discounted prices, user reviews, and easy booking.

8. Papago

• Why: A translation app specifically designed for Korean, often more accurate than other translation apps.
• Features: Text, voice, and image translation.

9. T-Money Balance Check

• Why: To check the balance on your T-Money card, which is used for public transportation.
• Features: Balance checking, transaction history, and recharge locations.

10. Coupang Eats or Baedal Minjok (Baemin)

• Why: For ordering food delivery.
• Features: Wide selection of restaurants, easy ordering, and English language support in some areas.

11. Visit Korea

• Why: Official app by the Korea Tourism Organization, useful for finding tourist information.
• Features: Travel guides, maps, and event information.

12. Pocket Wi-Fi Manager

• Why: If you rent a pocket Wi-Fi device, this app can help you manage your device and data usage.
• Features: Data usage tracking and device management.

13. Melon or Genie Music

• Why: For streaming Korean music and getting a feel for the local culture.
• Features: Large library of Korean and international music.

14. Seoul Public Transport

• Why: Provides comprehensive information on public transportation in Seoul.
• Features: Bus and subway schedules, route planning, and fare information.

15. Currency Converter

• Why: To easily convert prices from Korean Won to your home currency.
• Features: Real-time exchange rates and offline functionality.

Installing these apps will help you navigate, communicate, and make the most of your time in Seoul, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.