IMOHELPER

How to use IMOHELPER: choose a need, understand, then act

Start with one thing you want to do in Korea. Choose the relevant picture menu or ask a question, add a place or photo when useful, then check the answer before opening the next tool. You do not need to know every Korean address to begin.

Guide icon for understanding Korean menus and signs from a photo
Guide icon for understanding Korean menus and signs from a photo
Start with a question

Step by step

  1. Choose your language and describe one task: for example, understand a menu or plan an evening.
  2. For a place or route, confirm your starting area and destination name. Before travel, use the area you plan to visit.
  3. For text in a photo, include the whole sign or menu and keep the letters sharp.
  4. Read the answer, correct missing context and use the tool that fits your task.

If you only know part of the place name

Include the city or neighborhood and what you want to do. If several places have similar names, compare the branch and address before following a route.

If the photo is hard to read

Retake the photo closer to the text, avoid glare and keep prices or conditions in the frame. Photo translation helps explain text; ask the venue to confirm any important uncertainty.

Try one useful question

“I am staying near Seoul Station and have two hours this evening. How should I plan?” gives a clearer starting point than an unrelated list of requests. Add your own area and time when you open IMO.

Official sources

Reviewed:

Related guides

Related guides

About IMOHELPER

IMOHELPER, also called IMO or 이모, helps international visitors live and act in Korea. Choose a quick image or ask in chat to explore a day out, understand a Korean menu, find places and routes, plan a trip or look for activities with others.

What can this service help me do?

Start with what you need. These links open the existing service; you choose the next step there.

What can I do in Korea today?

Explore today’s options and choose an activity with IMO.

Open this feature · Try this question

How can I understand a Korean menu?

Open photo translation with a clear menu image, then use IMO chat to ask about a dish.

Open this feature · Try this question

What can I explore when I am alone in Seoul?

Look through the existing Together activities and decide what suits you.

Open this feature · Try this question

How can I plan a few hours in Seoul?

Open the existing trip planner and enter your area, time and important stops.

Open this feature · Try this question

Questions for your Korea trip

Practical answers for planning and getting around Korea.

How can I have a short conversation with a local person if I do not speak Korean?

Use short sentences and discuss one thing at a time. Ask the other person to show a Korean reply that you can translate back. Confirm places, times and amounts in writing. Ask permission before recording someone’s voice.

Open translation

Reviewed:

What polite Korean phrases can I show when I need help during my trip?

Show “실례합니다. 도와주시겠어요?” to politely ask for help. You can add “한국어를 잘 못합니다” and “천천히 말씀해 주세요.” State the place or action you need. In an emergency, do not delay contacting emergency services while searching for a perfect phrase.

Open translation

Reviewed: