If you’ve ever travelled in Seoul, you’ll know the feeling. Standing at the entrance of a subway station, only to be greeted by what looks like an endless wall of stairs. For travellers hauling heavy suitcases, parents pushing strollers, or wheelchair users trying to move through the city, it can feel daunting before the journey even begins.
Thankfully, Naver Map has rolled out a new feature that makes life so much easier. The “Avoid Stairs” option. With just a tap, you can get subway routes that guide you fully via elevators, from the station entrance all the way through transfer sections.
Also read: Getting Around Seoul: The Ultimate Guide for Singaporean Explorers
Why this feature is a game-changer
No more guessing where the nearest lift is, or wandering around in circles during transfers. Every step of your route is centred around elevator access, so you can move comfortably and confidently through even the busiest stations.
Whether you’re navigating peak-hour crowds or simply prefer a smoother journey, this feature ensures you won’t get lost along the way.
So the next time you’re heading out on the subway, especially with luggage in tow, give the “Avoid Stairs” option a try. It might just save you both time and energy.
How to use the “avoid stairs” option

Image credits: NAVER Map App
Using the feature is simple and intuitive:
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Open Naver Map and enter your destination.
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Tap on the subway route option to see available routes.
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Look for the filter button on the right-hand side.
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Select “Avoid Stairs” from the list of preferences.
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Naver Map will then generate a route that uses elevators for both entry and transfers.
Other handy Naver Map features

Image credits: NAVER Map App
While the “Avoid Stairs” function is a fantastic addition, Naver Map has plenty of other tools that make it a must-have for travellers exploring Korea. You can access real-time subway updates and live bus tracking, so you’ll know exactly when they’ll arrive and if there are any delays.
With the massive subway system, it may be difficult to navigate your way around, but with Naver Map’s detailed transfer guidance, there are step-by-step transfer routes so you won’t miss a connecting line.
With the bookmarking feature on the app, you’re also able to bookmark places and easily access them during your trip
Also read: 10 Hidden Gems in Seoul for Singaporeans to Discover
Final thoughts
With these features combined, Naver Map is more than just a navigation tool; it’s practically your personal guide to getting around Korea smoothly. So before your next trip, make sure to download it and explore the settings. Trust me, your future self (and your tired legs) will thank you.