Can You Use Google Maps in Korea?

Google Maps can be used in Korea for place search and some public-transit information, but the availability and accuracy of walking and driving routes may vary while services transition. Do not rely on it as your only navigation app during a trip.

The 2026 situation

In February 2026, the Korean government conditionally approved the export of high-precision map data. That opened a path to improved services, but it does not mean every feature launched everywhere at once. Before traveling, check whether the route you need is actually generated in the app.

Keep local apps ready

Naver Map — useful for walking, public transit, and local business information.
KakaoMap — useful for walking, transit, and Korean place-name searches.

English search works for many major places, but pasting the Korean name or road address often gives a more precise match.

A reliable workflow

Discover the place in whichever app you prefer.
Confirm that the Korean place name and address match.
Immediately before leaving, recheck the route in Naver Map, KakaoMap, or any currently working routing service.

Save your accommodation and key destinations in advance, and keep screenshots of their Korean addresses. You can still show them offline even if a mapping service changes.