# Google Maps in Korea in 2026: Why Locals Use Naver and Kakao Maps Instead

- URL: https://hallyu-brief.vercel.app/en/news/does-google-maps-work-in-korea-2026-app-2c0478
- Published: 2026-10-15T23:43:07.926Z
- Publisher: Hallyu Brief

> Google Maps works in Korea with limited detail, so most locals rely on Naver Map and Kakao Map for walking and transit directions.

## Key points

1. Google Maps uses 1:25,000-scale public map data in Korea, The Korea Times reported.
2. Google's 2025 request for high-precision map export is still under government review.
3. Set up Naver Map or Kakao Map before your first day out.

## Does Google Maps work in Korea?

Google Maps works in Korea, but with limits. According to The Korea Times, Google currently uses publicly available 1:25,000-scale map data, supplemented by aerial and satellite imagery. Because of this, walking routes, indoor details, and some transit information can be less precise than what you may be used to elsewhere.

## Why is the map data limited?

Korea restricts the export of high-precision map data over national security concerns. Google filed a request in February 2025 to export 1:5,000-scale digital maps to its overseas data centers. Industry sources told The Korea Times that the government was likely to approve it, but a government official said nothing had been finalized. Google made similar requests in 2007 and 2016, and those were rejected. The United States has called these restrictions a non-tariff barrier.

## Which apps do locals use?

| Need | Common choice |
|---|---|
| Walking and subway directions | Naver Map or Kakao Map |
| Taxi calling | Kakao T |
| Restaurant reviews | Naver Map or Kakao Map |

Many Koreans rely on Naver Map and Kakao Map because they show more local detail, including bus routes, store listings, and reviews. Google Maps can still help with overseas planning and general navigation.

## Your first 24 hours

Before leaving the airport, download Naver Map or Kakao Map and set your language. Keep a backup offline map of your hotel area. If you get stuck, the 1330 Korea Travel Hotline offers free calls and online chat for foreign visitors, according to VISITKOREA.

## For international fans

If you are visiting for a concert or fan event, check the venue address in both Naver Map and Google Maps before you go, since listings may differ. Confirm opening hours on the venue's official channel.

## FAQ

### Is Google Maps accurate for walking in Seoul?

Google Maps can give general walking directions, but its map data in Korea is less detailed than local apps. Many people check Naver Map or Kakao Map for precise routes.

### What happens to the Google map export request?

Google filed the request in February 2025. According to The Korea Times, the government was expected to decide at an interagency meeting, but the outcome was not finalized in the reports.

### Who can I call if I get lost in Korea?

The 1330 Korea Travel Hotline offers free calls and online chat for foreign visitors, according to VISITKOREA.

## Sources

- [VISITKOREA - Imagine Your Korea](https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/main/index.do)
- [The Korea Times](https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/20260227/govt-likely-to-approve-googles-request-for-s-korean-map-data-sources)

_Written and translated with AI from official announcements and Korean media reports. If something is wrong, please let us know._