Reaching New Heights in Seoul
As I step out onto the balcony of our 35th-floor apartment in Seoul, the sprawling cityscape unfolds before me. Towering skyscrapers pierce the sky, their gleaming glass facades reflecting the ever-changing hues of day and night. It’s a sight that never fails to captivate, and one that my two young daughters, Eva and Isabel, have come to call home.
Our move to Seoul from Washington, D.C. was a whirlwind decision, but one that has opened up a world of new experiences for our family. Being a correspondent for NPR, I was presented with the opportunity to report on events in South Korea, North Korea, and Japan – an offer I couldn’t refuse. With my husband’s unwavering support, we uprooted our lives and embraced the challenge of living abroad.
As Elise Hu-Stiles, a fellow expat, describes, the pace of life in Seoul is simply “astonishing.” It’s a city that moves at a dizzying frequency, with people bustling about, cars and scooters zipping by, and a constant hum of activity. But amidst the frenetic energy, there’s a vibrant culture that celebrates children, and we’ve discovered countless ways to immerse our kids in unique, sky-high adventures.
Soaring to New Heights
When we first arrived in Seoul, the sheer scale of the city took some getting used to. Our apartment, situated in the Yongsan district, boasts panoramic views of the city’s many mountains and skyscrapers. It’s a sight that never fails to captivate, and one that our daughters have grown to love.
While some locals may not be as culturally tolerant of foreigners, we’ve found that the city is incredibly welcoming and accommodating to families. One of the first things we noticed was the abundance of child-friendly amenities, from the ubiquitous “play zones” in shopping malls to the incredible themed cafes that dot the city.
Soaring to New Heights: Kid-Themed Cafes
Perhaps one of our family’s favorite discoveries in Seoul has been the incredible array of kid-themed cafes scattered throughout the city. These whimsical establishments go far beyond the typical coffee shop, offering immersive, interactive experiences that cater to the boundless curiosity and imagination of children.
Take, for example, the Hello Kitty Cafe we stumbled upon in the bustling Gangnam district. As we stepped through the doors, we were greeted by a explosion of pink, with plush Sanrio characters adorning every surface. The girls squealed with delight as they explored the cafe, discovering hidden nooks and crannies filled with toys, games, and even a mini-kitchen where they could indulge in their culinary aspirations.
But the Hello Kitty Cafe was just the beginning. We’ve since visited a jungle-themed cafe, complete with a towering treehouse and interactive play areas, as well as a whimsical sheep cafe where the kids could cuddle with fluffy, friendly ovine companions. These unique cafes have become a highlight of our time in Seoul, offering not just delicious treats, but truly immersive, imaginative experiences that transport both kids and adults alike.
Reaching New Heights: Skyscraper Playgrounds
Of course, the true thrill of living in a skyscraper-studded city like Seoul lies in the countless opportunities to explore the city’s vertical landscapes. And we’ve discovered that Seoul is home to some truly breathtaking, kid-friendly skyscraper experiences.
One of our favorite outings was a visit to the observation deck of the iconic N Seoul Tower. As we ascended in the gleaming glass elevator, the city unfolded beneath us, with the bustling streets and distant mountains stretching out in a panoramic vista. Once at the top, the kids were captivated by the interactive exhibits and the chance to gaze out over the cityscape from dizzying heights.
But the N Seoul Tower was just the beginning. We’ve also discovered hotels in Seoul that offer incredible skyscraper-themed experiences for families, with playgrounds and activity zones perched high above the city streets. Imagine your little ones scrambling through a jungle-gym on the 50th floor, or exploring a maze of slides and tubes suspended between towering buildings. It’s the kind of experience that ignites the imagination and leaves a lasting impression.
Reaching New Heights: The Joys and Challenges of City Living
Of course, living in a vertical metropolis like Seoul has come with its own unique set of joys and challenges. As Elise Hu-Stiles noted, the Korean work culture is intense, with many parents working late into the night and often missing quality time with their families. Dads are often absent for dinner, a rarity that Elise’s pediatrician highlighted as a key measure of family togetherness.
But for us, the benefits of city living have far outweighed the drawbacks. The sense of community and the abundance of child-friendly amenities have been a revelation. From the free play zones in shopping malls to the incredible themed cafes, Seoul has presented our family with a wealth of opportunities to explore, learn, and grow together.
And let’s not forget the sheer thrill of living in a skyscraper. Our daughters, Eva and Isabel, have reveled in the sweeping views, the high-flying playgrounds, and the sense of adventure that comes with calling a lofty perch home. As they gaze out over the city, their imaginations soar, dreaming of the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
Reaching New Heights: A Family’s Journey in Seoul
Our time in Seoul has been a whirlwind of discovery, challenge, and pure delight. From the bustling streets to the towering skyscrapers, this city has captivated our hearts and ignited our sense of adventure. And through it all, we’ve been able to share these experiences with our two young daughters, weaving cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
As we continue to navigate the unique landscape of parenting in Seoul, we’re constantly in awe of the city’s child-centric culture and the incredible opportunities it offers. Whether it’s soaring to new heights in a skyscraper-themed playground or indulging in the whimsy of a themed cafe, Seoul has opened our eyes to a world of possibilities that we never could have imagined.
So if you’re dreaming of a family adventure that reaches new heights, look no further than the dynamic, ever-changing skyline of Seoul. With its boundless energy, its warm embrace of children, and its awe-inspiring vistas, this city is a true beacon for families seeking to explore, discover, and create lasting memories together.
