# Does It Work in South Korea? (2026-11-11)

South Korea has ultra-fast 5G and widespread credit card acceptance, but national security laws restrict Google Maps from offering walking or driving turn-by-turn directions.

> **Quick take:** Google Maps cannot give walking or driving directions in South Korea—install Naver Map or KakaoMap in English mode before landing, and bring a physical chip card for T-money.

## Service Compatibility Matrix

- **Google Maps Walking & Driving Navigation** [workaround_required]: Only basic public transit routing works on Google Maps; walking and driving navigation are disabled by Korean map export laws—use Naver Map or KakaoMap. ([Guide](https://doesitworkin.com/south-korea/maps-navigation))
- **Travel eSIMs on SK Telecom / KT / LG U+** [works]: Data eSIMs work immediately upon landing; if you need a Korean 010 phone number for restaurant waitlists (CatchTable), book an airport eSIM with voice/SMS.
- **Foreign Credit Cards & Apple Pay** [conditional]: Physical Visa/Mastercard chip cards work at 99% of stores and restaurants; Apple Pay works only at NFC-upgraded chains, and subway T-money reloads still require cash in KRW.

Source: https://doesitworkin.com/south-korea