When starting life in Korea, one common concern among many Japanese people is “lack of information” and “loneliness.”
Living in a new place, with an unfamiliar language and different culture, requires reliable sources of information and ways to connect with others.
This is where SNS apps come in handy.
In fact, SNS usage in Korea is far more developed than in Japan, and it plays a role in almost every aspect of daily life.
Here, we’ll introduce 5 SNS apps that are especially useful for life in Korea, along with detailed explanations on how to make the most of each one.
1. KakaoTalk (카카오톡)
Essential for life in Korea — more than just a messenger
KakaoTalk is the first app you should install when living in Korea. Almost every Korean uses it. Similar to Japan’s LINE, but with far more features.
Key Features:
- Free messaging, voice calls, and video calls
- Essential for group chats in universities, workplaces, share houses, or language schools
- Integrates with other services like KakaoTaxi, KakaoMap, and KakaoPay
Practical Uses:
- Communicating with roommates
- Sharing class materials or assignments
- Talking with Korean friends
- Receiving order or reservation notifications
2. Instagram (인스타그램)
Best for keeping up with trends and local info
If you want to know about youth culture, latest trends, and real-time local info in Korea, Instagram is perfect. Its visual nature makes it easy to explore cafes, fashion, or Korean cosmetics intuitively.
Key Features:
- Easy-to-understand info via photos and videos
- Local hashtags and geotags for finding nearby spots
- Active Japanese users living in Korea post in Japanese as well
How to Use:
- Search hashtags like #한국원룸생활 (#KoreanOneRoomLife) or #한국생활 (#LifeInKorea)
- Check the atmosphere of nearby cafes or salons before visiting
- Keep up with new food items or trending products
3. YouTube (유튜브)
The all-in-one app for life hacks, culture, and language learning
YouTube is useful before and after moving to Korea. Video format helps you visually understand daily life tips and cultural differences.
Key Features:
- Many vlog-style videos about living in Korea
- Real experiences from exchange students or working holiday participants
- Videos often include Korean subtitles, helpful for language learning
How to Use:
- Watch “Korean One-Room Life Room Tour” to help find an apartment
- Learn prices and shopping methods with “Korean Supermarket Shopping” videos
- Prepare for cultural differences with “Manners in Korea” clips
4. Twitter (X)
Strong for breaking news and real-time information
X (formerly Twitter) is widely used in Korea to check news and trends, especially for real-time updates like power outages, transportation delays, or emergencies.
Key Features:
- Quickly access real-time news, trends, and incidents
- Use hashtags (#) and keyword searches to explore updates in your areas of interest
- Collect info in multiple languages: Korean, English, Japanese
How to Use:
- Check transportation status with hashtags like #서울교통 (#SeoulTraffic)
- Track trending topics and current events
- Monitor real-time updates during emergencies
5. NAVER Map (네이버 지도)
A must-have for maps, local info, and reviews
In Korea, NAVER Map is more accurate and convenient than Google Maps. Beyond navigation, it provides restaurant reviews, menu info, photos, and crowd levels.
Key Features:
- Detailed maps and transport info across Korea
- Extensive reviews of cafes, restaurants, and hospitals
- Partial support for English and Japanese
How to Use:
- Find convenient spots around your apartment (supermarkets, pharmacies, hospitals)
- Navigate from stations to destinations on foot
- Check store crowd levels and opening hours in advance
💡 Tip:
Effectively using SNS apps is key to gathering information, making daily life easier, and easing loneliness.
If your Korean isn’t strong, try switching to English or using auto-translation features.
Also, some apps require phone verification (local SIM), which may not work with a Japanese number. It’s recommended to prepare a local SIM immediately after arriving in Korea.
Pre-Arrival Checklist for Korea (SNS Edition)
✅ Install KakaoTalk and create an account
✅ Watch Korean life vlogs on YouTube to gather information
✅ Practice basic functions of NAVER Map (including translation features)
✅ Research local trends on Instagram and X (Twitter)
✅ Prepare a SIM-free device or one compatible with eSIM
Life in Korea is full of new experiences, but using SNS apps effectively can turn those challenges into enjoyable opportunities.
Adapt your app usage to fit your lifestyle and actively incorporate the tools that make daily life easier!
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