A Fun-Filled Family Adventure Awaits
As a parent, the thought of visiting a bustling city like Seoul, South Korea with your little ones might seem daunting at first. However, I’m here to tell you that Seoul is a wonderfully family-friendly destination, packed to the brim with amazing activities and attractions that are sure to delight kids of all ages.
From the moment we stepped off the plane, my family and I were captivated by the energy and vibrancy of this dynamic city. Seoul may be known for its cutting-edge technology and world-class cuisine, but it also offers a treasure trove of unique experiences perfect for curious young minds.
Let me take you on a journey through some of the coolest things for kids to see and do in Seoul. Get ready for an adventure that will have your little ones begging to return time and time again!
Embrace the Quirky at the Ddong Café
Our first stop had the kids (and even a few adults) giggling with excitement – the infamous Ddong Café, also known as the “Poop Café.” Located in the trendy Insadong neighborhood, this quirky establishment serves up drinks and treats in toilet-themed dishware.
As the article on CK Travels mentions, the Ddong Café is quite the experience, with “drinks and food served in toilet bowls to turd themed interiors.” My kids couldn’t get enough of the chocolate poo-shaped waffles and the colorful, toilet-inspired decor. It’s the perfect spot to let your little ones’ sillier sides shine.
Soar Through the Skies at Lotte World
No trip to Seoul with kids would be complete without a visit to the legendary Lotte World. This massive theme park, located just outside the city center, is like a scaled-up version of the Disney Castle, complete with thrilling rides, whimsical parades, and enough excitement to keep the whole family entertained for hours on end.
From the sedate monorail to the heart-pounding log flumes and pirate ships, Lotte World has something to suit every age and thrill level. As mentioned on TripAdvisor, the Lotte World character parade, with its colorful floats and energetic performers, is a must-see for families.
Laugh Out Loud at the NANTA Theatre Show
If your little ones love a good laugh, the NANTA Theatre show is an absolute must-see. This high-energy, non-verbal cooking and comedy performance has been captivating audiences worldwide for over 20 years, and it’s easy to see why.
As the CK Travels article notes, the NANTA show is “the tale of 4 chefs and a kitchen manager preparing a sumptuous meal for a big wedding banquet in real-time.” The lightning-fast knife work, ingenious use of kitchen utensils as musical instruments, and hilarious slapstick comedy had our family in stitches the entire performance.
Become a Masterful Poser at Alive Museum
For the Instagram-obsessed kids (and let’s be honest, parents too), the Alive Museum is a dream come true. This interactive, 3D art gallery allows you to pose for all sorts of fun and imaginative photos – from becoming a superhero to floating in space.
As mentioned on TripAdvisor, the Alive Museum is “best described as a trick art selfie gallery where you can pose for some really fun photos in several zoned areas.” My kids loved being able to customize their experience by collecting stamps on a map and exchanging them for sweet treats at the end.
Embrace Your Inner Character at Kakao Friends and Ssamziegil
Seoul is a veritable wonderland for fans of cute and quirky cartoon characters, and two of the best spots to indulge this passion are the Kakao Friends stores and the Ssamziegil shopping complex.
The Kakao Friends stores, with their larger-than-life character models and endless rows of branded merchandise, had my kids (and let’s be honest, me too) utterly captivated. From the adorable Ryan the Lion to the mischievous Con the Crocodile, there was no shortage of photo opportunities.
And as the CK Travels article highlights, the Ssamziegil complex in Insadong is a veritable “quirky and creative” shopping mecca, with character-themed stores, hands-on activities, and even a rooftop cafe with stunning views.
Venture Beneath the Waves at COEX Aquarium
For a truly immersive aquatic adventure, the COEX Aquarium is an absolute must-visit. Located within the massive COEX Mall in the heart of the Gangnam district, this expansive aquarium is the largest in Seoul, boasting 16 themed zones and a wide array of marine life.
As the CK Travels article notes, highlights include a real-life mermaid performance, a parade of penguins, and countless mesmerizing jellyfish. My little ones were captivated, pressing their noses up against the glass to catch a glimpse of the sharks and stingrays swimming overhead.
Explore the Cheonggyecheon Stream
One of the most serene and family-friendly outdoor spaces in Seoul is the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a beautifully revitalized urban waterway that winds its way through the heart of the city.
As the CK Travels article describes, this peaceful oasis is “an example of urban regeneration in Seoul,” where a formerly neglected riverside area has been transformed into a lovely walking path, complete with stepping stone bridges, benches, and plenty of opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife.
My kids loved exploring the Cheonggyecheon, taking a break from the bustling city to simply enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with the whole family.
Cheer on the Home Team at a Baseball Game
If there’s one thing that South Koreans are truly passionate about, it’s baseball. As the CK Travels article notes, “baseball is a BIG hitter in South Korea,” and attending a game at the iconic Jamsil Stadium is a must-do family activity.
My kids were enthralled by the electric atmosphere, the energetic mascot performances, and the infectious singing and dancing of the enthusiastic crowd. Even if you’re not a die-hard baseball fan, the sheer energy and joy of a Seoul baseball game is sure to win you over.
Soar to New Heights at Everland
No visit to Seoul with kids would be complete without a trip to Everland, the largest theme park in South Korea. This sprawling wonderland, located just outside the capital, is packed with thrilling rides, enchanting character experiences, and even a brand-new VR attraction based on the hit game “Battlegrounds World Agent.”
As the CK Travels article highlights, Everland also boasts a separate water park, Caribbean Bay, that opens during the summer months, adding an extra layer of fun and excitement to your visit.
Cuddle Up with Cute Critters at Zoolung Zoolung
If your little ones can’t get enough of adorable animals, a trip to the Zoolung Zoolung family zoo is a must. Located in the heart of the sprawling Times Square Mall, this hands-on zoo experience allows kids to get up close and personal with a wide variety of creatures, from toucans and meerkats to parrots and aardvarks.
As the CK Travels article notes, Zoolung Zoolung is “Korea’s first and largest indoor hands-on zoo,” providing an interactive and educational experience that’s perfect for curious young minds.
Capture Breathtaking City Views at N Seoul Tower
For a bird’s-eye view of Seoul’s stunning skyline, a trip to the iconic N Seoul Tower is an absolute must. Perched atop the lush Namsan Mountain, this 777-meter-high landmark offers panoramic vistas of the city, as well as a lovely cafe and observation deck perfect for taking in the sights.
As mentioned on TripAdvisor, the N Seoul Tower also hosts free family-friendly cultural shows throughout the day, adding an extra layer of entertainment to your visit.
Venture to the DMZ
For a truly unique and educational experience, a trip to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating North and South Korea is a fascinating option for families. This heavily guarded border area offers a glimpse into the complex history and geopolitical dynamics of the Korean peninsula.
As the CK Travels article notes, the DMZ tour includes a visit to the Imjingak Pyeonghwa-Nuri Park, where you can observe North Korean guards and local residents through state-of-the-art telescopes. It’s a thought-provoking and eye-opening experience that’s sure to spark conversations with your little ones.
Cruise Along the Han River
For a more leisurely and scenic family activity, a sunset cruise along the Han River is a fantastic option. As the CK Travels article describes, these short river cruises offer an audio commentary and the chance to see the city’s parks and landmarks from a different vantage point.
My kids loved being able to feed the seagulls and take in the lively atmosphere of the riverfront as we glided along the water. It’s a great way to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of Seoul after a day of non-stop adventure.
Dress Up in Traditional Korean Hanbok
One of the most unique and memorable family activities in Seoul is the opportunity to don traditional Korean hanbok costumes and explore the city’s historic palaces and neighborhoods. As the CK Travels article mentions, many of the palace grounds and Hanok villages have dedicated costume rental shops, allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in the rich cultural heritage of Korea.
My kids had a blast posing for photos in their colorful, ornate outfits, feeling like true Korean royalty for a day. It’s a fantastic way to capture unforgettable memories and bring home a piece of Seoul’s history.
Discover a World of Wonder at KidZania
For a truly unique and interactive family experience, a visit to KidZania Seoul is a must. This indoor children’s city allows kids to role-play a variety of adult professions, from pilots and TV broadcasters to firefighters and surgeons.
As the CK Travels article notes, children can earn “kidZos,” the currency used within KidZania, as they explore the different job stations and activities. It’s an educational and highly engaging way for kids to learn about the world of work in a safe and fun environment.
With so many incredible sights, sounds, and experiences to discover, Seoul is truly a family-friendly destination that will leave your little ones (and you!) with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Whether you’re exploring the quirky cafes, soaring through the skies at Lotte World, or diving beneath the waves at COEX Aquarium, there’s something to captivate and delight every member of the family.
So what are you waiting for? Book your stay at the Hotel Stay Inn Seoul and get ready to embark on the ultimate family adventure in this dynamic and diverse city.
