Lost Following Google Maps' Transfer Directions? Switch to Naver Map

If you open Google Maps and tap for subway transfer directions only to see a straight line with no real route, or a "no information available" message, it's not a glitch. Because the Korean government has long restricted the export of high-precision map data for security reasons, Google Maps can't properly support walking navigation or detailed public-transit routing inside Korea.

It wasn't until February 27, 2026, that a review committee under Korea's National Geographic Information Institute conditionally approved Google's request to export 1:5,000-scale map data, and even that came with strings attached, such as image security processing and the use of domestic servers, so no sweeping overnight improvement should be expected. The fact that the decision came 18 years after Google's first application in 2007 shows just how slowly this kind of change moves.

That makes Naver Map a far more practical choice for visitors. In December 2024, Naver officially launched a foreigner-friendly guide offering directions, real-time transit arrival information and transfer guidance in Korean, English, Chinese and Japanese. A survey by Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization also found Naver Map was the most-used navigation app among foreign visitors, at 56.2%. Kakao Map can also be switched to an English interface through its in-app language settings.

Before turning on roaming or inserting a SIM card at Incheon Airport, it's worth downloading Naver Map or Kakao Map instead of relying on Google Maps. Swapping apps in advance takes far less time than wandering a transfer station asking for directions and missing the next train.