Naver Pay or Kakao Pay - What Should You Choose for Payment in Korea | Inquivix (2024)

Naver Pay or Kakao Pay - What Should You Choose for Payment in Korea | Inquivix (1)

Naver Pay or Kakao Pay – Korea is a world leader in mobile payment systems, with two of the most popular being Naver Pay and Kakao Pay. Both of these mobile payment services allow users to make payments using their smartphones, and they offer a wide range of features. Both have their pros and cons, so it can be difficult to decide which one to use. Naver Pay and Kakao Pay are the two most popular choices, but which one should you choose?

What Is Naver Pay and Kakao Pay?

South Korea has some of the most sophisticated mobile payment systems in the world. Naver Pay and Kakao Pay are two of the most popular options, and they allow users to make payments using their smartphones. Naver Pay is operated by the online search giant Naver, while Kakao Pay is operated by the mobile messaging giant Kakao. However, both platforms are rapidly growing and are expected to continue to gain market share in the coming years.

Both Naver Pay and Kakao Pay use near-field communication (NFC) technology to facilitate transactions. This means that users simply need to hold their phones near a terminal in order to make a payment. Both platforms support a wide range of online payment options, including credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets. In addition, they offer other features, such as the ability to make person-to-person payments and to purchase goods and services online.

The popularity of Naver Pay and Kakao Pay is a testament to the innovative spirit of the Korean people. It is also evidence of the country’s commitment to mobile technology. As more and more people around the world adopt smartphones, it is likely that mobile payments will become increasingly common. Cashless payments are convenient, safe, and fast, and they offer many benefits to both consumers and businesses. If you are planning a trip to Korea, or if you are already there, you may be wondering which payment platform you should use: Naver Pay or Kakao Pay.

Which Payment System Is Better for You – Naver Pay or Kakao Pay?

Both Naver Pay and Kakao Pay offer similar features, such as the ability to send and receive money, pay for goods and services, and store your credit card information. However, there are some differences between the two services. We have compared the two systems to help you figure out which one would work best for you.

Naver Pay or Kakao Pay - What Should You Choose for Payment in Korea | Inquivix (2)

How to Use Naver Pay?

Naver Pay, the mobile payment and digital wallet service powered by Naver is a convenient way to do transactions. The service can be used to make online and offline payments, as well as to send and receive money. Naver Pay can be linked to a Naver account or a bank account.

To use Naver Pay, customers first need to download the Naver app and create a Naver account. Once they have done so, they can link their bank account to their Naver account and start using the service. Customers can use Naver Pay to make purchases on any website or app that accepts the payment method.

In addition, offline payments can be made using QR codes. Customers simply need to open the Naver app and scan the QR code at the register to do so. Naver Pay is a convenient way to make payments, both online and offline. Whether customers are shopping for clothes or groceries, paying their bills, or sending money to friends, they can do so with just a few taps on their smartphones.

Naver Pay or Kakao Pay - What Should You Choose for Payment in Korea | Inquivix (3)

How to Use Kakao Pay?

The Kakao Pay mobile payment service can be used to make payments for goods and services, send or receive money, and even make charitable donations. Kakao Pay can be linked to your bank account or credit/debit card and is available through the Kakao Talk app, which is used by millions of people in South Korea.

Setting up Kakao Pay is simple and only takes a few minutes. Once you have registered for an account, you can add your debit or credit card information. You can also choose to link your Kakao Pay account to your bank account, which will allow you to transfer funds between the two accounts. When you are ready to make a payment, simply open the Kakao Talk app and select the Kakao Pay option. Enter the amount you would like to pay and confirm the transaction. That’s it! Making payments with Kakao Pay is quick, easy, and secure.

Pros and Cons of Naver Pay and Kakao Pay

In recent years, mobile payment options have become increasingly popular, giving users a convenient way to pay for goods and services with their smartphones. So, Naver Pay and Kakao Pay are great options for making payments in South Korea. However, there are some key differences between the two platforms that you should be aware of.

Naver Pay or Kakao Pay - What Should You Choose for Payment in Korea | Inquivix (4)

Which one is more user-friendly?

Naver Pay is the payment platform affiliated with the Naver app, which is one of the most popular messaging apps in South Korea. Naver Pay users can link their bank account or credit card to the app and use it to make payments at online or offline businesses. One of the benefits of Naver Pay is that it can be used to pay bills and make other types of payments, in addition to making purchases. The app also offers a “point back” program, which allows users to earn reward points that can be redeemed for discounts or cashback.

Kakao Pay, on the other hand, is affiliated with the chat app KakaoTalk. But it offers services similar to Naver Pay. Kakao Pay users can also link their bank account or credit card to the app and use it for payments. Since it is integrated into the messaging app, it allows users to send money to friends and family with just a few taps. Kakao Pay’s integration with KakaoTalk makes it the clear winner in terms of convenience. With just a few taps, users can easily send or request money from friends and family. Kakao Pay also offers a rewards program that gives users cashback when they shop at certain stores.

Other features

Naver has its own eCommerce platform, called Naver Shopping. For a regular shopper using Naver Shopping, the better option would be Naver Pay. The main reason is that Naver Pay is directly integrated into the shopping platform. This means that shoppers do not have to leave the site to make a payment.

Kakao Pay, on the other hand, has started its own bank, Kakao Bank. It is a mobile-only banking service offering loans, deposits, debit cards, and overseas remittances, among other financial services. In this regard, Kakao Pay is leading the way in terms of financial innovation in Korea.

So, if you are looking for a payment method that is convenient and offers great features, Naver Pay is the better option. However, if you are interested in exploring new financial services, Kakao Pay is the way to go.

Naver Pay or Kakao Pay - What Should You Choose for Payment in Korea | Inquivix (5)

For Foreigners in South Korea

While both platforms are widely used by Koreans, foreign visitors to Korea often find them to be confusing and difficult to use. This is because Naver Pay and Kakao Pay are integrated into the respective Naver and Kakao ecosystems and require a Korean bank account and phone number to set up.

However, there are a few ways for foreigners to use Naver Pay and Kakao Pay without a Korean bank account or phone number. For example, foreign visitors can link their credit cards to a Naver or Kakao account, or use a prepaid card that can be purchased at convenience stores. With a little effort, foreigners can enjoy the convenience of mobile payment in Korea.

Security

Both Naver Pay and Kakao Pay use multiple layers of security, including encryption and authentication, to protect your personal and financial information. In addition, both services offer customer support in case you have any questions or problems.

Are You Interested in Naver Pay or Kakao Pay?

In the end, it is up to you which payment system you choose. Naver Pay and Kakao Pay are both great systems that have their own unique features. If you want a payment system with more options, then Naver Pay would be a good choice for you. However, if you want a payment system with easier usability, Kakao Pay would be better suited for your needs.

If you are wondering which one is better for you, consider the following: how often you will be using it; what type of payments you need to make; and whether or not you have a Naver or Kakao account. Whichever payment system you decide on, make sure to familiarize yourself with all of its features so that you can take advantage of everything it has to offer. Do you think that these mobile payment apps are convenient?

Naver Pay or Kakao Pay - What Should You Choose for Payment in Korea | Inquivix (2024)

FAQs

Can foreigners get Naver Pay? ›

Keep in mind that Naver Pay is not currently available for foreigners who do not live in South Korea.

How do I make payments to Korea? ›

Popular payment methods
  1. KakaoPay. Digital wallets. KakaoPay is a South Korean digital wallet found within Kakao Talk.
  2. Korean cards. Cards. This payment method allows merchants to process Korean-issued cards.
  3. UnionPay. Vouchers, prepaid and giftcards, Cards. ...
  4. JCB. Cards. ...
  5. Mastercard. Cards. ...
  6. PayPal. Digital wallets. ...
  7. PayCo. Digital wallets.

Can I use KakaoPay outside Korea? ›

Yes, you can use Kakao bank for your international bank transfer.

Can I use Naver in English? ›

Naver, the most popular search engine in South Korea, also has an English version. While the Korean version is more popular and offers more features, the English version is still a great resource for students and travelers looking to learn about Korea or find information on specific topics.

Do Koreans use Naver or Google? ›

Naver is popularly dubbed the Google of Korea, as it is currently Korea's number one search engine. It was launched in 1999 by a group of ex-Samsung employees and has dominated the Korean search industry ever since.

Which payment app is used in Korea? ›

Naver Pay or Kakao Pay – Korea is a world leader in mobile payment systems, with two of the most popular being Naver Pay and Kakao Pay.

What is the easiest way to send money to Korea? ›

Best Ways to Send Money from the USA to South Korea
  1. The best rated: Wise (9.5/10)
  2. The cheapest: Remitly and XE Money Transfer.
  3. The fastest: Panda Remit and Instarem.
  4. The cheapest for small transfers: XE Money Transfer.

Do Koreans use Kakao? ›

SEOUL — In South Korea, Kakao is ubiquitous. Nearly everyone, from schoolchildren to the elderly, uses the Korean tech company's apps for messaging, taxis, navigation and payments. It's Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Uber, Google Maps and Venmo wrapped into one.

Can foreigners have Kakao bank? ›

Important : This bank is an Internet-only bank in Korea and since banks don't allow foreigners to apply for an account online, You must be a Korean citizen to become their customer.

How can foreigners use Kakao Taxi? ›

  • Download the application. Download the Kakao T app.
  • Choose the taxi. Open the app, and choose the Taxi.
  • Step 3. Enter your address. ...
  • Pick your options. Upon entering your location and destination, you will see a list of vehicles available in the area. ...
  • Pick with your payment. ...
  • Follow your Taxi.
2 Nov 2022

Does Kakao cost money? ›

Free Chats

KakaoTalk is free of charge with internet connection, wherever you are in the world. Engage in lively chat with friends with KakaoTalk's 1:1 and group chats. Send and receive chat and multimedia messages such photos, videos and more.

How do I transfer money to a Korean bank account? ›

One of the most obvious options is to use a bank to transfer money to South Korea. You can call into your local high street bank or give them a call and they will be able to set things up for you.

Can I send money to Korea through PayPal? ›

And the best part is, if you have an account with PayPal you can start sending money to South Korea right now with your PayPal payment options right at your fingertips.

Is Naver better than Google? ›

Compared to Google, Naver gives more of a priority to content created through their platform. Outside of the paid results, it is very common to see results created on Naver Blog, Naver Café, and Naver Knowledge iN. Other search engines are not allowed to search Naver's platforms.

Can foreigners make Naver account? ›

Just like any other email service Naver also provides you with a free Naver account that can be used to send and receive emails from anyone in the world.

Can foreigners use Naver app? ›

You need to make sure to choose “외국인” (Foreigner). Choose your telecom provider, fill in your phone number and then click on the “인증” (certification) button to request a verification code. It will be sent through a text message.

Which app is mostly used in South Korea? ›

App Trends
App App NameStore Rank App's store ranking in the chosen store; country, category and leader board updated daily.
1Succubus Idle1
2마녀의 기사 : 방치형 2D 오픈월드 RPG2
3Korean Stickers Maneki Cats3
4스킬 용사 키우기4
46 more rows

Is Kakao under Naver? ›

As of March 2022, the company is competing with Naver for No.
...
Kakao.
Native name주식회사 카카오
Net incomeKRW₩ 167.1 billion (2020)
OwnersBrian Kim 25.66% NPS 8.47% Tencent 6.35%
Number of employees10,644 (2020)
SubsidiariesKakao Entertainment Kakao Games Kakao Friends Kakao Mobility Lycos, Inc.
13 more rows

What is the most using app in Korea? ›

KakaoTalk is the most popular messaging app in Korea – everybody uses it! You might as well download it before you arrive in Korea. Then you'll be ready to contact and connect with people right from the start.

What is Kakao in South Korea? ›

Started as a messaging app more than a decade ago, KakaoTalk has become a universe unto itself, with services covering banking and payments, ride-hailing, maps and games. It is found on more than 90 percent of phones in South Korea.

Which app is used in South Korea instead of Whatsapp? ›

KakaoTalk and the preference for domestic services

KakaoTalk, also known as KaTalk, is a mobile messaging app operated by South Korean conglomerate Kakao Corporation.

What card to use in Korea? ›

Credit Cards in South Korea

Most major credit cards are accepted with Visa and MasterCard being the most widely so, but many shops and banks charge a transaction fee of between 2-4%. Amex is also accepted in a few places in the major tourist areas, but will not be quite as useful.

What is the safest way to send money? ›

The safest way to send money through the mail is with a money order. This offers more security than cash, as it's only payable to a specific person and can be cancelled and reordered if it is stolen or lost. It's also better protected than a check, as it isn't linked to a bank account.

What is the easiest and safest way to send money? ›

All you need is an internet connection.
  1. Zelle. Zelle is a great option to quickly pay back your friends and family. ...
  2. Venmo. Venmo is a popular P2P payments app and for good reason. ...
  3. Cash App. Cash App is another trendy standalone app used to send money to people you know. ...
  4. PayPal. ...
  5. Apple Cash. ...
  6. Google Pay. ...
  7. Samsung Pay Cash.
9 Sept 2022

How much bank balance is required for Korea? ›

If it has limited information, and no bank logo or information, it probably won't work. Students on a one term program (3-4 months) must provide a recent bank statement with a minimum balance of $3,000 and students on a year-long program must provide a recent bank statement with a minimum balance of $10,000.

Which payment system is best? ›

8 Best Payment Gateways of 2022
  • PayPal: Best for doing everything in one place.
  • Square: Best if you also have a storefront.
  • Braintree: Best for accepting a variety of payment types.
  • Chase Payment Solutions: Best for a built-in banking partner.
  • Authorize.net: Best if your business has more complex payment needs.
18 Jul 2022

Which is the safest mode of payment in international trade? ›

Secure Payment in International Trade: Cash in Advance

The safest method of payment in international trade is getting cash in advance of shipping the goods ordered, whether through bank wire transfers, credit card payments or funds held in escrow until a shipment is received.

What are the 3 payment methods? ›

Payment Options
  • Cash.
  • Checks.
  • Debit cards.
  • Credit cards.
  • Mobile payments.
  • Electronic bank transfers.
9 Oct 2022

Why do Korean people use Kakao? ›

At least 93% of Korean Internet users, use KakaoTalk and find it very convenient to use. KakaoTalk features are free, with the app having a user-friendly interface, making users have a great experience from signup to daily communication.

Which country uses KakaoTalk most? ›

With over 53 million active users worldwide in the fourth quarter of 2021, KakaoTalk is one of the most popular mobile messaging apps in South Korea. Operated by the South Korean Kakao Corporation, it is particularly popular in its homeland.
...
CharacteristicNumber of active users in millions
--
12 more rows
27 Jul 2022

Is KakaoTalk popular in Korea? ›

KakaoTalk is one of the most popular mobile messaging apps in South Korea. According to Kakao Corp, in Q3 2022, there were 53.5 million active users worldwide and more than 47.6 million were based in South Korea. On average, 1 billion messages are sent daily through KakaoTalk.

Can I transfer money to Kakao bank? ›

How can I pay for my money transfer to a Kakao Bank Account? Interac e-Transfer, Interac Online, Bill payment, Electronic Funds Transfer or Visa or Mastercard Debit are your options.

Can I make Korean friends on KakaoTalk? ›

Adding a new friend to your KakaoTalk account is very easy. You just need your language partner's KakaoTalk ID.

How can I use Kakao taxi without Korean number? ›

Can you use Kakao Taxi without a Korean phone number? You can use Kakao Taxi without a Korean phone number by selecting 'Pay to the driver' in the payment options. This allows you to skip registering a credit card, which requires a Korean phone number.

Is Kakao available in English? ›

In KakaoMap you can now change your preferred language from Korean to English, and search for locations in English. Kakao have been slowly integrating English accessibility into many of their apps, from their free messaging app, to their rideshare app.

Can you use KakaoTalk without internet? ›

So if you subscribe to KakaoTalk120, you will have unlimited KakaoTalk-to-KakaoTalk calls, messages and all other functions inside KakaoTalk. No Wi-Fi needed!

Is KakaoTalk a safe app? ›

KakaoTalk has the option of end-to-end encrypted chatting, but it is not the default setting. That means that millions of non-tech savvy Korean citizens are walking around broadcasting all of their instant messages, photos, and personal information on public WiFi networks and completely unencrypted.

Does Koreans use WhatsApp? ›

Short answer: Yes. WhatsApp is allowed in South Korea, and most of its population uses this app to communicate with friends and family and even with their colleagues.

Do you need a SIM card to use KakaoTalk? ›

The app is not connected to your phone number, so you can use it on devices such as tablets without needing a SIM card.

What bank does South Korea use? ›

Banks in South Korea

South Korea's banking sector consists of 20 domestic banks and 35 foreign bank branches. KB Kookmin Bank, Shinhan Bank, Hana Bank, and Woori Bank are among the largest commercial banks, not only in terms of total assets but also in terms of.

What bank does Korea use? ›

Best Banks in South Korea for Expats

Kookmin Bank (KB) Standard Chartered Bank Korea. Hana Bank. Woori Bank.

What is the best way to transfer money to another bank account? ›

An Automated Clearing House, or ACH, transfer is a way to electronically transfer money between banks through the Automated Clearing House network. Also known as Direct Deposit, direct pay, or electronic check, ACH transfers are one of the most commonly-used methods to transfer money from one bank account to another.

Can I withdraw money from PayPal in South Korea? ›

Withdrawing your payments is easy.

All you have to do is link your preferred local Korean bank account or your U.S. bank account to withdraw payments from PayPal.

How much money can I send to South Korea? ›

How much money can I send to South Korea? The maximum transfer amount when sending money to South Korea and receiving cash is 5,000 USD.

How much is the PayPal fee? ›

Standard rate for receiving domestic transactions
Payment TypeRate
Invoicing3.49% + fixed fee
PayPal Checkout3.49% + fixed fee
PayPal Guest Checkout3.49% + fixed fee
QR code Transactions – 10.01 USD and above1.90% + fixed fee
7 more rows

How do I set up Naver Pay without Korean bank account? ›

For Foreigners in South Korea

However, there are a few ways for foreigners to use Naver Pay and Kakao Pay without a Korean bank account or phone number. For example, foreign visitors can link their credit cards to a Naver or Kakao account, or use a prepaid card that can be purchased at convenience stores.

Can foreigners use line pay? ›

People all over the world are using LINE Pay.

You can easily make payments online/offline with LINE Pay.

What countries use Naver? ›

These countries include China, Russia, North Korea, and, surprisingly, South Korea. The top search engine in South Korea is Naver, which has a 51% market share, followed by Google at 41%. This advantage could be because Naver remains heavily focused on the Korean market while Google is a global search platform.

Can I make a Naver account without phone number? ›

You can create a Naver account both on a pc or desktop and mobile smartphone or tablet using the same process. All you need is a valid phone number, either from Korea or from overseas.

Is Naver Korean or Japanese? ›

NAVER Corp. is a global ICT company, providing South Korea's number one search portal "NAVER" and its subsidiaries and affiliates provide services, including LINE messenger, SNOW camera app, digital comics platform NAVER WEBTOON, group social media platform, NAVER BAND, and metaverse platform ZEPETO.

Which payment app can I use without bank account? ›

Venmo. Venmo is a popular online service that lets you transfer money via a mobile app. You and your recipient just have to sign up for free accounts.

Which money app can I use without bank account? ›

PayPal and Venmo are two notable names that allow you to open an account and receive funds without linking a bank account or credit card.

How can I transfer money from my bank account to Korea? ›

What you'll need for your online money transfer to South Korea
  1. Register for free. Sign up online or in our app for free. ...
  2. Choose an amount to send. Tell us how much you want to send. ...
  3. Add recipient's bank details. Fill in the details of your recipient's bank account.
  4. Verify your identity. ...
  5. Pay for your transfer. ...
  6. That's it.

How can I pay abroad without fees? ›

The best way to take money abroad

A prepaid card or app-only bank also allows you to spend money and withdraw cash without being charged interest or fees. In addition, a majority of app-only banks and prepaid cards allow you to freeze your card should it get lost or stolen whilst you are away.

Where can I use PayPay? ›

PayPay is a mobile application operated by “PayPay Co., Ltd.” It was established by Yahoo! Japan and SoftBank Mobile. You can use this mobile app to pay at most stores in Japan, whether they are large or small stores.

How do I change my payment method on line app? ›

To register or change your payment method from LINE Official Account Manager for web browsers:
  1. Click an account in the Accounts list.
  2. Click Settings > Payment method under Activity and billing.
  3. Click Choose payment method or Change payment method.
  4. Select a payment method, then click Continue.

Is Naver a safe site? ›

Naver.com is a popular email service commonly used for personal account creation. Recent quality reports have classified naver.com with a low risk profile as most accounts originating from this domain are valid and safe.

What does Kakao mean? ›

Kakao m (strong, genitive Kakaos, plural Kakaos) cocoa (unsweetened brown powder made from roasted, ground cocoa beans) (beverage) cocoa, hot chocolate (hot drink made with milk, cocoa powder, and sugar) cacao (plant, Theobroma cacao; cocoa bean)

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