South Korea has one of the most efficient and affordable public transportation systems in the world — but as a foreigner, navigating metro lines and bus transfers can feel intimidating at first.
Thankfully, there’s an easy solution.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to use Korea’s two most essential transportation apps: Kakao Metro and Kakao Bus.
These apps are your best friends for moving around Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and beyond — in English, real-time, and for free.
Let’s make your commute stress-free, efficient, and maybe even fun.
📱 1. Why Use Kakao Metro & Kakao Bus?
While Naver Map and Google Maps exist, Kakao’s transport apps offer unmatched real-time data for subways and buses.
| Kakao Metro | Android / iOS | Subway planning & navigation |
| Kakao Bus | Android / iOS | Bus routes, stops, arrival time |
💡 Key Benefits:
- Full English interface
- Real-time arrival information
- Delay & route change alerts
- Exit and transfer instructions
- Subway maps for all major cities (Seoul, Busan, Daejeon, etc.)
🔻 2. How to Download and Set Language
1. Search in your app store:
- KakaoMetro (카카오지하철)
- KakaoBus (카카오버스)
Both are free and available worldwide.
2. Set to English:
- Open the app.
- Tap ⚙️ (Settings).
- Select “Language” → Choose English.
- Restart the app if needed.
📝 Tip: If your phone’s system language is English, the app will usually default to English.
🚇 3. How to Use Kakao Metro (Subway Navigation)
Step-by-step: Planning a Subway Route
- Open Kakao Metro
- Tap Search (🔍) → Type departure station
- Tap again to add arrival station
- Press “Search Route” to see:
- Total travel time
- Number of transfers
- Recommended route
- First/Last train time
- Platform and exit info
Example:
From Hongik University to Gangnam
→ 41 minutes, 1 transfer, platform info, fare: ₩1,400
Other Features:
- Favorite routes
- Subway map by city
- Real-time delay alerts
- Crowdedness indicator (🚥)
✅ Best for: Daily commutes, tourists, business travelers
🚌 4. How to Use Kakao Bus (Live Bus Tracking)
Step-by-step: Checking a Bus Route
- Open Kakao Bus
- Type bus number or stop name (ex: “6002” or “Gwanghwamun”)
- Select the result
- See:
- Live location of the bus
- Estimated arrival time
- Full route (start to finish)
- Transfer info
Features:
- Add favorite buses or stops
- Search by current location
- See how many minutes away your bus is
- Track your bus on a real-time map
🚍 Example: Airport Limousine Bus 6002
See stops, seat availability, and time left until arrival.
🔄 5. Subway + Bus Transfer Tips
In Korea, subway and bus systems are seamlessly integrated. Your T-Money card or credit card works for both.
Transfer Bonus:
- Up to 4 free transfers between bus ↔ subway ↔ bus
- Within a 30-minute time window
- Applies to most routes nationwide
Using Apps Together:
- Check subway arrival on Kakao Metro
- Check last-mile bus on Kakao Bus
- Avoid long walks or missed connections
🧭 6. Useful Features for Foreigners
🔔 Alarm (Notification) for Stop Arrival
- You can set vibration alerts for when your stop is near.
- Great if you’re sleepy or distracted on the train/bus.
📍 Nearby Stations/Stops
- Allow GPS permission.
- Tap “Nearby” to see:
- Closest subway exits
- Bus stops and routes
- Local amenities
📸 Station Layout & Exit Maps
- Kakao Metro shows exit numbers and landmarks near stations.
- Some even show station interior maps for easier transfers.
💬 7. Common Questions Foreigners Ask
“Can I use Kakao Metro in Busan?”
Yes! Kakao Metro covers all Korean metro systems, including:
- Seoul
- Busan
- Daegu
- Gwangju
- Daejeon
“What if I don’t know Korean station names?”
Search using English names — the app recognizes them.
Also, station codes (e.g., Line 2 / 243) help.
“Is it better than Google Maps?”
Yes, in Korea — Google Maps doesn’t show accurate public transport routes. Kakao apps are more reliable.
🌐 8. Alternatives to Kakao Apps
| Naver Map | Bus, subway, walking | Good English, accurate times | Interface more complex |
| Subway Korea | Subway only | Very simple | No bus data |
| Google Maps | Navigation | Good for driving | Poor public transit accuracy |
✅ Verdict: For foreigners in Korea, Kakao Metro + Bus = best combo for daily transport.
🔑 9. Pro Tips for Using Public Transit in Korea
- 🚦 Avoid peak hours: 8–9 AM and 6–7 PM
- 🎧 Carry headphones: trains are usually quiet
- 🧾 Get a T-Money card or use Samsung Pay/Apple Pay
- 🪑 Don’t sit in pink or blue priority seats unless allowed
- 🔋 Use battery-saver mode if tracking your route — subway signals can drain phone battery
🧳 10. For Travelers: Airport to City via Metro or Bus
Incheon Airport → Seoul:
- AREX Express Train to Seoul Station (₩9,500)
- Bus 6002 or 6015 to Myeongdong / Hongdae
- Taxis are expensive: ₩70,000+
Use Kakao Metro to check train timing
Use Kakao Bus to see if airport limousine buses are delayed
Final Thoughts
Korea’s transportation system is a dream — once you know how to navigate it. With Kakao Metro and Kakao Bus, you’re not just finding your way — you’re riding like a local.
Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or just exploring, these apps turn your phone into a real-time travel assistant.
Don’t just ride — ride smart.
