Naver has begun testing a 'global map' feature, allowing users to explore overseas regions within its map app. Although not yet a formal service, the ability to navigate international maps has garnered significant interest online.
Recently, users shared the 'global map usage' feature of the Naver Maps app on online communities. By activating the 'laboratory' function in the app, users can zoom in and out of a world map, moving beyond the previously domestic-only map view.
The shared video includes a map of Japan, with users noting that as they zoom in, more detailed names of nearby businesses appear.
Currently, the functionality available online appears limited to basic map views of overseas areas. Some users have pointed out that, unlike Google Maps, the app does not yet support detailed location information or real-time navigation for international regions.
However, Naver Maps does offer features for searching and saving locations, as well as finding routes within South Korea. Users can save locations using a star button, and saved places and routes can be managed in a separate tab.
In addition to the global map feature, the laboratory function reportedly includes a feature to quickly release saved locations by long-pressing the star button, as well as applying 'liquid glass' design to the map home and some screens.
As news of the overseas map feature spreads, users have commented, “It seems like Google Maps will open in Korea, so they are moving toward the global market,” and “Google Maps is definitely better, but I find the Naver Maps UI more convenient.”
One user highlighted the potential for foreign tourists visiting Korea, stating, “The first barrier for traveling in Korea is the map app. Whether it’s Naver or Kakao, it’s essential.”
There were also concerns raised about the accuracy and functionality of the overseas map data. One user remarked, “Using Google Maps is fine for landmarks and major locations, but there’s a lack of data for regular restaurants, leading to many inaccuracies when you dig deeper.”
Others noted, “This isn’t just about Japan; it’s literally a world map,” and “When renting a car and driving in Okinawa, I found Google Maps inconvenient, so it would be great if Naver Maps became available in Japan.”
Conversely, some users criticized the current limitations, stating, “It just shows a simple map. It’s not usable. Navigation doesn’t work.”
It remains unclear whether Naver will officially expand this feature to include overseas maps, starting with Japan. However, this experiment indicates that Naver Maps is testing the waters for expanding its functionality beyond domestic services into the international map domain, raising interest in the potential for a formal launch.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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