Does Google Maps work in Korea?
Many travelers find out on arrival: Google Maps in Korea finds places, but it can't guide you on foot or by car. You don't have to give it up — plan and save places in Google Maps, then open them in a Korean map app when you need directions.
Open a place in Naver Map & KakaoMapWhat works and what doesn't (October 2026)
- Searching places and seeing them on the map: works.
- Public transport routes: shown, but the walking parts are not guided turn by turn.
- Walking and driving navigation: not available.
Why
Korean law restricts taking detailed map data out of the country, and Google processes its maps abroad. Without that data, Google Maps can't offer full walking and driving directions in Korea.
In February 2026 the Korean government conditionally approved Google's request to export map data. As of October 2026, walking and driving directions have not launched yet. Korean media report that Google is aiming for early 2027, but there is no official date.
What to use instead
- Naver Map: one of Korea's most popular map apps, available in English, Japanese and Chinese. It gives walking, public transport and driving directions.
- KakaoMap: the other big Korean map app — a good backup.
Keep using your Google Maps places
- In Google Maps, open the place and tap Share → Copy link.
- Paste the link into Korea Map Bridge.
- Tap Naver Map or KakaoMap to open the same place there, with directions from where you are.
Taking a taxi? Show the driver the Korean address — it's much easier to enter into a Korean navigation app than an English name.