A Guide to Traveling Korea with Kids: Family-Friendly Fun and Insider Tips

When my family and I decided to take a trip to Korea, my kids, aged 7 and 10, were beyond excited. They had seen so much about Korea on TV—from K-pop videos to animated shows—that they felt like they were already familiar with the country. I was thrilled to show them the culture, the history, and the food I loved so much. But as a parent, a new set of questions arose: 'Is Korea stroller-friendly?', 'Will my kids be able to handle the food?', 'Are there enough places to keep them entertained?'. I remember my first time trying to navigate the Seoul subway with a stroller and two tired children; it felt like a monumental task, and I quickly realized that traveling with kids requires a different kind of planning.

This guide is for parents like me who want to share the magic of Korea with their children but need a roadmap to make the journey smooth and enjoyable for the whole family. I've compiled a list offamily-friendly activities, essential travel tips, and insider informationbased on my own experiences. By understanding the unique aspects of traveling in Korea with children, you can create a trip that is not only fun but also educational and memorable for everyone.

1. Seoul: A Playground for All Ages

Seoul is a vibrant city with endless opportunities for family fun. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern entertainment.

1.1. Lotte World and Everland

Lotte World and Everland are two of Korea's most famous theme parks.Lotte Worldis a unique indoor/outdoor park located in the heart of Seoul, making it easy to get to.Everland, on the other hand, is a larger park located just outside of Seoul, known for its beautiful gardens and thrilling rides.

My Experience:We spent an entire day at Lotte World, and my kids loved it. The indoor section was a lifesaver on a hot summer day. My son was a huge fan of the thrilling rides, while my daughter enjoyed the parade and the more gentle attractions. The fact that we could easily get there by subway was a huge plus.
Insider Tip:Purchase your tickets online in advance to save time and money.

1.2. The Grand Children's Park (Seoul Grand Park)

This massive park is home to a zoo, a theme park, and a botanical garden. It's the perfect place to spend a full day with the family. The zoo is home to over 3,000 animals, and the botanical garden is a beautiful place to relax.

My Experience:My kids were fascinated by the variety of animals at the zoo. We also rode the Sky Lift, which gave us a fantastic view of the entire park. It was a great way to escape the city bustle and enjoy nature.

1.3. Historical Sites

Don't let the thought of history bore your kids. Seoul's historical sites can be made fun and interactive.

Gyeongbokgung Palace:The changing of the royal guard ceremony is a spectacular show that my kids absolutely loved. They were captivated by the colorful costumes and the precise movements of the guards.
Seoul Museum of History:This museum has interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids. They can learn about Seoul's history through hands-on activities and displays.

2. Navigating Korea with Kids: Practical Tips

Traveling in a foreign country with kids can be challenging, but these tips will make your journey much smoother.

2.1. Public Transportation

Korea's public transportation system is fantastic, but it can be a bit overwhelming with a stroller and kids in tow.

Subway:Most subway stations have elevators and escalators, but they can sometimes be hard to find. I learned to look for the "엘리베이터 (Elevator)" sign.
Bus:Buses are a great option as they are more accessible for strollers. I found that bus drivers were very helpful and friendly.
T-Money Card:Purchase aT-Money cardfor each family member. It can be used on subways, buses, and even in some convenience stores. It will save you a lot of time and hassle.

2.2. Food and Snacks

Korean food is delicious, but it can be a bit spicy for some kids.

My Experience:My kids are picky eaters, so I was a bit worried about the food. But to my surprise, they loved Korean BBQ, gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and hotteok (sweet pancakes). I also found that many restaurants had less spicy options, and I always had some snacks on hand.
Insider Tip:Convenience stores like GS25, CU, and 7-Eleven are everywhere and sell a wide variety of snacks, drinks, and simple meals. They are a lifesaver.

3. Kid-Friendly Accommodations

Choosing the right accommodation can make a big difference in your trip.

3.1. Family-Friendly Hotels

Many hotels in Korea offer family-friendly rooms with extra beds or connected rooms. Some hotels also have swimming pools, playgrounds, and other amenities for kids.

3.2. Hanok Stays

For a unique cultural experience, consider staying in aHanok(traditional Korean house). My family and I stayed in a Hanok in Jeonju, and my kids loved the experience of sleeping on a traditional mattress on the floor. It was a great way to immerse ourselves in Korean culture.

4. Beyond Seoul: Exploring Other Cities with Kids

Korea has so much more to offer than just Seoul. These cities are perfect for a family trip.

4.1. Busan: Beach Fun

Busan is a beautiful coastal city with stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.

Haeundae Beach:My kids loved playing in the sand and swimming in the ocean at Haeundae Beach. The beach is clean and has a lot of amenities.
Sea Life Busan Aquarium:The aquarium is a great place to spend a rainy day. My kids were fascinated by the variety of marine life.

4.2. Gyeongju: Time Travel

Gyeongju is known as the "museum without walls" and is a great place to learn about Korean history.

Bulguksa Temple:The temple is a beautiful and peaceful place. My kids enjoyed walking around and learning about the history of the temple.
Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond:The palace is a beautiful place to visit, especially at night when the lights are on. My kids loved the reflection of the palace on the pond.

5. Packing Essentials and Tips

Here are some essential items to pack and tips to remember when traveling with kids.

Snacks and Drinks:Always have some snacks and drinks on hand, especially for long journeys.
Portable Charger:You'll be using your phone for navigation, so a portable charger is a must.
Comfortable Shoes:You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential for the whole family.
Sunscreen and Hats:Korea can get very sunny in the summer, so pack sunscreen and hats.

6. Conclusion: A Family Adventure Awaits

Traveling to Korea with kids is an incredible experience. By planning ahead and being flexible, you can create a trip that is both fun and educational for the whole family. From the bustling city of Seoul to the beautiful beaches of Busan, Korea has something for everyone.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Is Korea a safe country to travel with kids?

A1: Yes, Korea is one of the safest countries in the world.

Q2: Are there changing tables in public restrooms?

A2: Yes, most public restrooms, especially in shopping malls and subway stations, have changing tables.

Q3: Is it easy to find kid-friendly food?

A3: Yes, there are many options for kids, including gimbap, noodles, and Korean BBQ.

Q4: Can I use a credit card everywhere?

A4: Yes, credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

Q5: Is it okay to breastfeed in public?

A5: While it's not a common practice, most department stores and major public places have designated nursing rooms.

Q6: Are there discounts for kids on public transportation?

A6: Yes, children under 6 travel for free, and children aged 6-12 get a discount on public transportation.

Q7: Can I rent a stroller in Korea?

A7: Yes, some major attractions and shopping malls offer stroller rentals.

Q8: Are there any theme parks for younger kids?

A8: Yes, parks like Lotte World have a dedicated section for younger kids with gentle rides.

Q9: What is the best time of year to visit Korea with kids?

A9: Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to the mild weather.

Q10: Are there any playgrounds in Seoul?

A10: Yes, there are many playgrounds in parks and residential areas.