South Korea: essential apps and practical travel tips
During our two weeks in South Korea, we discovered several ways to make getting around and everyday life easier. Apps, cash withdrawals, SIM cards and transport: we're sharing practical tips to help you plan your trip, avoid unpleasant surprises and save some money.
Which apps should you download in South Korea?
KakaoMap: to navigate and plan walking, subway and bus routes. Don’t use Google Maps for getting around South Korea, as its directions are not accurate enough.
Kakao T / Uber: to book a taxi and see an estimated fare, without negotiating or explaining your destination in Korean.
Papago: to translate Korean menus, signs and conversations, especially using photo translation.
Korail: to check schedules and book KTX trains connecting major cities.
ATM Fee Saver: to find ATMs and compare withdrawal fees.
How do you pay and withdraw cash in South Korea?
The local currency is the South Korean won (KRW). Card payments are widely accepted in restaurants, shops and hotels, but always carry some cash, especially for smaller businesses.
To withdraw cash, look for Global ATM machines that accept international cards. Some charge no withdrawal fee, while others apply a surcharge. Use ATM Fee Saver to compare ATMs and fees.
Finally, decline the ATM’s currency conversion and always choose to withdraw in KRW. Fees may vary depending on your bank and card.
Which SIM or eSIM should you choose in South Korea?
We used SK Telecom, one of the country’s main mobile operators. During our two weeks, we never had any connection problems.
We compared offers from different operators and found their tourist plans fairly similar. SK Telecom offers several packages depending on the length of your stay and the included services.
An eSIM such as Airalo is a convenient alternative for getting online as soon as you arrive, but compare prices with local plans.
How do you get around South Korea?
In cities, subways and buses are very convenient. We used the T-money card, accepted on public transport across almost the entire country. You can buy it at convenience stores such as CU, GS25 or 7-Eleven. To top up a standard physical card, bring cash, especially at these stores and subway station machines.
For travel between cities, we preferred the fast and comfortable KTX high-speed train. It serves Seoul, Gyeongju and Busan, among other destinations. Check timetables and book through Korail.
What mistakes should you avoid in South Korea?
- Leaving train bookings too late: KTX trains can be in high demand on weekends and public holidays. Book ahead if your dates are fixed.
- Forgetting to tap your T-money card when getting off the bus: tap it when boarding and alighting to benefit from transfer discounts.
- Booking popular attractions too late: some activities sell out quickly. Book in advance for more choice.
To discover another side of South Korea, explore all our travel stories and recommendations from across the country.