Lost in Translation?

Question

I wandered down Deungyong-ro 14-gil last week, totally unprepared. Maps were useless

kathiefranz · Answer

The real issue is that Deungyong-ro 14-gil and most of those small streets don't have consistent building numbers in a straight line, they zigzag. Google Maps tries to plot a logical grid and fails every time. KakaoMap has a feature called "street view" that's actually more updated than Naver's in that area, I checked last month. If you're stuck again, just find the nearest coin laundry or fried chicken place and use that as your anchor point, those are everywhere and never move.

katarzyna · Answer

those metal plaque signs are a real lifesaver, they're called dong-map signs and are actually maintained by the local district office. another thing that helps is memorizing the nearest subway exit number and a landmark like a specific cafe or convenience store, then it's just a matter of walking in that direction and asking an ajumma if you get turned around. most people are happy to point you the right way even if their english is limited

deborah · Answer

Your best bet in that area is to just memorize the name of the main street you came off of and count the turns. Deungyong-ro 14-gil branches off in weird angles, so I always count three lefts or two rights from the convenience store on the corner. It sounds silly but it works better than any map once you're deep in the maze.

lara · Answer

I've noticed that a lot of the old street signs in that area are actually faded or missing entirely. The trick is to look for the small blue and white alley markers that are usually bolted onto the side of buildings, they're easier to spot than the standalone poles.

judithputz · Answer

If you go back, try finding the old "dong" office signboard near the main road before you dive into the alleys. It shows the whole neighborhood layout including those tiny side streets. The numbering system here isn't sequential, it's based on when buildings went up, so even locals get lost sometimes.

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