Best Apps to Meet Travelers in Korea 2025: Stay Connected & Make Friends
Introduction
If you’re searching for the Best Apps to Meet Travelers in Korea, you’ve come to the right place. Traveling in Korea is exciting, but it’s even better when you have someone to share the journey with. From hiking in the mountains to enjoying Korean BBQ, having a travel companion in Korea makes every experience richer.
This guide introduces the Best Apps to Meet Travelers in Korea in 2025, covering global platforms, local favorites, and specialized apps. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a long stay, these tools will help you connect with like-minded travelers and locals.
1. Meetup
Meetup is one of the most popular apps for finding events and groups worldwide. In Korea, you’ll find hiking clubs, language exchanges, and nightlife meetups.
- Why it’s useful: Large community, frequent events in Seoul and Busan.
- Connection tip: RSVP to smaller group events first; it’s easier to start conversations.
👉 Join Meetup Korea
2. Couchsurfing Hangouts
Originally for hosting, Couchsurfing now offers Hangouts to meet travelers nearby. Perfect for spontaneous plans like exploring markets or grabbing dinner.
- Why it’s useful: Global trust network, easy to use in major Korean cities.
- Connection tip: Use Hangouts during evenings; travelers often gather around hotspots like Hongdae or Itaewon.
👉 Couchsurfing Korea
3. Travello
A social network built specifically for travelers. Share itineraries, find activity partners, or join group chats by location.
- Why it’s useful: Traveler-focused feed, popular among backpackers in Asia.
- Connection tip: Post a short intro with your trip dates—it increases your chances of finding a match.
👉 Join Travello
4. KakaoTalk Open Chat
In Korea, KakaoTalk is the essential messaging app. The Open Chat feature allows you to join groups based on interests or locations.
- Why it’s useful: Widely used by both locals and expats.
- Connection tip: Search for open chats with keywords like “travel buddy” or “language exchange.”
👉 KakaoTalk Open Chat
5. Naver Café & Communities
Naver Café is a local forum platform where travelers can join interest-based communities. Some popular cafés focus on hiking, food tours, or K-Drama fans.
- Why it’s useful: Authentic local connections.
- Connection tip: Use translation tools to overcome language barriers and participate in group activities.
👉 Naver Café & Communities
6. HelloTalk & Tandem
Language exchange apps that connect people worldwide. Many Koreans use them to practice English, while travelers can practice Korean.
- Why it’s useful: Conversations can move from chat to real-life meetups.
- Connection tip: Be clear about your purpose—friendship, travel tips, or language exchange.
👉 HelloTalk
👉 Tandem
7. Tourlina (For Women)
A women-only app designed for finding safe travel companions. Great for female travelers who want extra security and peace of mind.
- Why it’s useful: Safety-focused and trusted among solo female travelers.
- Connection tip: Plan to meet in public spaces first, such as cafés or tourist spots.
👉 Tourlina (For Women)
8. Discover Korea Now (DKN)
Unlike generic apps, Discover Korea Now is built exclusively for travelers in Korea.
- Set your status: I’m in Korea / Planning to Visit / Interested
- Create a profile with travel preferences and languages
- Use the map-based directory to see who’s nearby
- Access the Travel Toolkit for safe and easy meetups
✨ Why it’s special: DKN focuses on safe, meaningful connections between travelers. Because travel isn’t only about places—it’s about people.
How to Safely Use the Best Apps to Meet Travelers in Korea
Using apps is convenient, but safety should come first. Here are a few tips when meeting companions via the Best Apps to Meet Travelers in Korea:
- Meet in public places first (cafés, parks, or hostels).
- Don’t overshare personal details immediately.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, leave.
- Use messaging apps like KakaoTalk for convenience, but avoid giving private numbers at first.
FAQ (Schema Ready)
Q: Are these apps free to use in Korea?
A: Most apps like Meetup, HelloTalk, and KakaoTalk are free, with optional premium features.
Q: Is it safe to meet people through these apps?
A: Yes, if you follow basic safety rules like meeting in public and letting a friend know your plans.
Q: Do I need Korean language skills?
A: Not necessarily. Many Koreans use English in these apps, and translation tools make conversations smoother.
Q: Why use Discover Korea Now instead of other apps?
A: DKN is designed for travelers in Korea, offering safer, more focused connections.
Conclusion
Finding a travel companion in Korea has never been easier. By using these Best Apps to Meet Travelers in Korea, you can join events, chat with locals, or even plan trips together. Whether you’re watching a jazz concert, hiking in the mountains, or simply sharing a meal, these apps open the door to new friendships.
These Best Apps to Meet Travelers in Korea are not just tools—they are bridges to unforgettable cultural exchange and meaningful memories.
👉 Start with Discover Korea Now (DKN) to make your connections safer, smarter, and unforgettable.
