Can non-Koreans make a Naver account?

Navigating Naver for Non-Koreans: A Comprehensive Guide

Naver, South Korea’s largest search engine and web portal, offers a vast array of services, including news, entertainment, and e-commerce. While primarily designed for Korean users, Naver can be accessed and used by non-Koreans as well. However, navigating Naver as a foreigner requires some workarounds.

Korean Phone Verification Obstacle

One significant hurdle for non-Koreans is the Korean phone verification requirement. Naver requires users to verify their accounts using a Korean phone number. As most non-Koreans do not possess a Korean phone number, this poses a significant obstacle.

Manual Approval Workaround

To overcome this verification obstacle, non-Koreans can opt for manual approval by submitting a photo of their passport. This process involves uploading a clear photo of the passport’s front page. Naver’s support team will then manually verify the identity and approve the account creation.

Lengthy and Frustrating Process

While manual approval provides a workaround, it can be a lengthy and frustrating process. Verification times can vary, ranging from a few hours to several days. Additionally, users may encounter errors or delays in the approval process, further prolonging the wait.

Simplified Registration for Foreigners

To address these challenges, Naver has recently introduced a simplified registration process for foreigners. This process requires non-Korean users to provide their personal information, such as name, email address, and country of residence. Naver will then automatically generate a temporary account.

While the simplified registration process eliminates the need for passport verification, it still has some limitations. Certain Naver services and features may not be available for temporary accounts until full verification is completed.

Tips for Non-Korean Users

• Utilize the Naver International website (naver.com/en) for an English interface.
• Use a VPN or proxy server to access Naver if blocked in your country.
• Seek assistance from online forums or social media groups dedicated to Naver users.
• For expedited verification, consider partnering with a Korean resident who can provide a Korean phone number for verification.
• Be patient and persistent during the verification process.

Conclusion

Navigating Naver as a non-Korean can be challenging but not impossible. By following the workarounds outlined in this guide, you can access Naver’s vast array of services and connect with its vibrant user community. Keep in mind that the verification process may be time-consuming, but it is essential to ensure account security and access to all Naver features. With patience and persistence, you can unlock the full potential of this multifaceted platform.