The 49 best things to do in Seoul with kids

Wherever else you visit on a South Korea family holiday, you’ll be spending at least some time in Seoul with kids – and even though we spent more time in the capital than anywhere else during our own trip, there’s still so much more we’d have loved to do and see.

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Whether you’re visiting with younger kids, tweens or teens, there really is so much to do, from palaces to K-pop, bibimbap to brilliant viewpoints, ancient culture to amusement parks and aquariums.

From traditional hanbok dress-up to filming your own K-pop music video, Seoul manages to layer centuries of history behind an ultra-modern face, and you won’t be short of family-friendly attractions in Seoul with kids.

We spent around seven days in the city in total, just over half of our trip and still didn’t manage to do everything on our list – Seoul sprawls across a huge area; even the inner city alone is the size of the 5 boroughs of New York City combined, so you need to factor in time to get around too.

Check out my top tips for South Korea with kids for more advice to help you plan

But you can definitely pack plenty in, as well as leaving time to enjoy some fantastic food in South Korea, soak up the atmosphere and even consider some nearby day trips.

So here’s my guide to the best things to do in Seoul with kids – the places we loved, a few things we wish we’d known beforehand, and a few tips to help you get the most out of what is, genuinely, one of the best family travel destinations we’ve ever visited.

Seoul’s Museums and Cultural Attractions

National Folk Museum of Korea

Tucked within the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea is far from the dry and dusty image which you might expect from a folk museum.

If you think it’s unlikely to engage your kids, think again – this is a fantastic starting point for understanding Korean culture and daily life through the ages. The different displays talk you through different aspects of daily life, of festivals, of key ceremonies, of fashion, and a whole lot more.

You’ll find interactive elements, as well as plenty of options to appeal to kids, from foods eaten at festivals to a recreation of a school room. There’s also an area outdoors with a few reconstructed traditional buildings and a chance to play some classic Korean games (including a few that parents will recognise from Squid Game).

There’s also a dedicated children’s museum within the complex that’s specifically designed for younger visitors, with interactive displays and more hands-on activities that bring Korean history to life.

Both the main museum and the children’s museum are free to enter, but booking ahead is recommended for the children’s museum – this can be easier said than done as you need a Korean phone number though, so if you’re hoping for a walk-in space, it’s best to plan a weekday visit.

Top tip: Although it’s within the palace grounds, you don’t have to pay to enter – follow the road around the eastern side of the palace from the Gwanghamun Gate and there’s a route in.

National Museum of Korea

The National Museum of Korea is one of the largest museums in Asia, and it more than lives up to its impressive exterior. Its displays span the centuries from prehistoric times right through to the Joseon Dynasty and beyond, so the collection is enormous – definitely best not to tackle all of it in one go.

It does make a good introduction to Korea’s history, and while there are limited interactive displays, we did find a few great videos about key points in the country’s past.

We chose to visit at the start of our trip, to learn more before visiting some of the historic locations, including the ancient city of Gyeongju but I would have been tempted to go back after exploring the sites when I could visualise the artefacts in their original home.

But there’s no bad time to explore, and as it’s free to visit, you could easily go more than once if you wanted to.

The children’s museum within the building is another great option for younger kids, with lots of hands-on exhibits and interactive ways to learn more about Korean history – as with the folk museum, you’ll need a reservation to enter, so it’s worth planning ahead and making an account to try to book once slots become available.

There are some lovely gardens and grounds outside too if you need a break between galleries – it’s around 30-40 minutes by public transport from areas like Myeongdong and Insadong, so allow three hours or so, including the travelling time.

Seoul Children’s Museum (Seoul Children’s Grand Park)

There are an impressive number of children’s museums in Seoul, but along with the ones attached to bigger museums, there’s also the Seoul Children’s Museum set within Seoul Children’s Grand Park in the east of the city.

It’s hands-on, immersive, and genuinely imaginative – children can explore themed areas covering nature, science, and the arts with lots of activities across the three floors, plus other events including family cooking classes.

And you’ve got plenty to do in the park complex surrounding it too, from playgrounds to gardens, a small zoo and even an amusement park (for a fee). Locals come here for full days out with picnics, and you can absolutely see why.

While this museum isn’t free, the entry charge is very low (activities like the cooking classes also have an additional fee) and it’s also easier for non-Koreans to make a booking than some others: 40% of tickets are held for walk-ups, with 60% available online. Closed on Mondays.

National Palace Museum of Korea

Also set within the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Palace Museum focuses specifically on royal court culture and artefacts from the Joseon Dynasty.

It gives you a good idea of the elegance and opulence of the country, with everything from royal furniture to ceremonial costumes and court paintings on display in the galleries.

The museum is better for older children with an interest in history – younger visitors may find the Folk Museum more engaging – but it’s also free to enter, which makes it an easy addition to a day at the palace, and easy to plan a quick visit with younger kids who might not want to stay long.

While you’re in the museum grounds, you can also visit the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art’s Seoul branch just across the road – the exhibitions change regularly and it’s free for children

Museum Kimchikan

One for the foodies in your family, the Museum Kimchikan is entirely dedicated to Korea’s most famous culinary export, kimchi.

This small but unexpectedly fascinating museum in Insadong tells the story of kimchi-making, its cultural significance, and its many regional varieties.

There are interactive elements and you can even have a go at making kimchi yourself if you book into one of the workshops – the Kimchi Basic is a great activity for older children (and adult beginners) and an unbeatably memorable souvenir (if you like kimchi!)

You can also book entry tickets in advance on Klook.

If your kids aren’t over-excited by a visit to a kimchi museum, the Seoul Color Pool Museum is very close by as a trade-off – the themed rooms are filled with giant inflatables, ball pits, slides, balloons and bright colours for a very fun (and Instagrammable) way to spend an hour

Palaces, Folk Villages and Korean Heritage

Gyeongbokgung Palace & Changing of the Guard

If you see only one of Seoul’s five great palaces, make it Gyeongbokgung. Built in 1395 as the seat of the Joseon Dynasty, it has been beautifully restored after being largely destroyed during the Japanese occupation.

While you won’t find many rooms to wander through, the palace grounds themselves are fascinating to stroll through – expect huge courtyards, ornate pavilions, a lotus pond, and mountain views.

If you want to know lots of the background, you’ll need a guide, but it’s easy to amble around and soak up the architecture otherwise. Keep an eye out for the animals painted on the gates, including a white tiger on the western gate – particularly popular with K-Pop Demon Hunters fans!

The palace is also the backdrop for one of Seoul’s most family-friendly spectacles: the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Taking place at the main Gwanghwamun Gate at 10am and 2pm (except Tuesdays), the ceremony features performers recreating the original ceremony where the royal guards in colourful traditional costumes would parade to a soundtrack of drums and conch shells.

You’ll want to arrive early to get a good spot – we got there around 20-30 minutes before and snaffled the final space by the Gwanghwamun Gate end of the courtyard, although they did also open up space for children if you have kids who are happy to head off and watch there.

Entry to Gyeongbokgung is a bargain (around 3,000 won for adults, free for under-18s), and combined with the Folk Museum and National Palace Museum (both free and set within the grounds), you could easily spend a full, very happy day here.

Top tip: If you arrive dressed in hanbok (traditional Korean clothing, easily rented nearby), entry to the palace grounds is completely free – hanbok also gets free admission for other palace visits if you’re venturing beyond the main royal palace.

Want to add some excitement to your visit to the palace? This Gyeongbokgung Monster game can be played on your phone, with a series of challenges using locations in and around the palace – recommended for age 8+

Changdeokgung Palace and the Secret Garden

If Gyeongbokgung is the main palace in Seoul, Changdeokgung is arguably the most beautiful of Seoul’s palaces, particularly the extraordinary Huwon, or Secret Garden – a magical landscape of wooded hills, lotus ponds, and elegant pavilions.

Once off-limits to commoners and reserved only for the Joseon royal family, there are still areas which aren’t open to the public. The Secret Garden can only be visited by reserving a guided tour, which needs ideally to be booked in advance, so do plan ahead.

The tours run in English several times per day, although you can also book onto a Korean-language tour and then explore independently once you’re inside. With half the slots available online, and half available on the day, you can also get Secret Garden tickets if you arrive early for entry later in the day.

The palace itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and slightly less overwhelming in scale than Gyeongbokgung, which can make it a little more manageable with younger children too.

Rent hanbok

Renting a hanbok – traditional Korean dress – is one of the most fun things you can do in Seoul with children, and it makes for some fantastic photos if you’re visiting the historic sites as well. They’re unexpectedly comfy to wear as well, although if you are visiting when it’s particularly hot or cold, do bear in mind what you’ll wear underneath.

Hanbok rental shops are clustered around all the main palaces and you’ll also find them at many of the folk villages, with a whole range of styles and sizes for adults and children alike – the simpler outfits are usually cheaper, and there may be less choice for younger kids, but we had plenty to pick from.

Prices are very reasonable (typically around 10,000–20,000 KRW per hour), and as mentioned above, wearing a hanbok gets you free entry to most of Seoul’s main palaces, as well as giving some amazing backdrops for your photos.

We ended up renting our hanbok at Yongin Folk Village, around an hour from Seoul, on the way to Gyeongju, so you aren’t limited to doing it in Seoul but we had such fun that I’d genuinely considered doing it again

Bukchon Hanok Village

Sandwiched between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village is one of Seoul’s most picturesque neighbourhoods – a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with beautifully preserved traditional Korean houses (hanok) perched on a hillside with views out over the modern city below.

It’s not just a tourist attraction either, with people still living in the area – the huge numbers strolling these photogenic streets has resulted in a curfew, so tourists are not allowed to visit after 5pm or before 10am (and asked not to come at all on Sundays).

You’re also asked to be quiet and respectful while you are there, which is absolutely fair enough – and if you do want to avoid the crowds, arriving bang on 10am is a good plan, although it’s rarely quiet.

You’ll find tea houses and gift shops dotted through the streets, and it’s another popular place to rent and wear hanbok, which looks fabulous against the traditional streets – reserving in advance is a good idea if possible. There’s also a small museum and cultural centre to explore but the main attraction is wandering.

A word of warning: some of the lanes are steep and not especially buggy-friendly, so bear that in mind if you do have very little ones.

Namsangol Hanok Village

For a slightly different hanok experience, you could also head to Namsangol Hanok Village at the foot of Namsan Mountain.

This reconstructed village of five restored noble houses, set within a pretty landscaped garden, makes for a calmer, less crowded alternative to Bukchon.

There are also regular cultural demonstrations and performances, traditional craft activities, and a lovely pavilion area that’s perfect for a rest. Entry is free (closed Mondays), making it an easy addition to a Namsan day.

Seochon Hanok Village

Seochon — literally “west village” — is Gyeongbokgung’s quieter, artsier neighbour, a neighbourhood of hanok lanes that has gradually been taken over by independent cafés, art galleries, and boutique shops.

It’s less touristy than Bukchon and all the more tempting as a result, although the historic houses mean you’ll still find plenty of other people snapping the attractive streets.

Wander the alleyways, stop for bingsu (shaved ice with sweet toppings) in a pretty courtyard café, and enjoy the feeling of being somewhere that hasn’t yet been completely overrun. There are usually cats to befriend as an added bonus.

The Demilitarised Zone (DMZ)

A visit to the DMZ – the heavily fortified buffer zone separating North and South Korea – is one of the most sobering and thought-provoking things you can do in South Korea, and it’s both educational and memorable for older children or teenagers (and parents!).

Half-day tours depart regularly from central Seoul and typically include a visit to Imjingak Peace Park, where you can see the famous Bridge of Freedom, the Dora Observatory where you can look over to North Korea, as well as a tour of one of the infiltration tunnels dug by North Korea beneath the border – we headed down to the Third Tunnel of Aggression.

The tunnel walk does involve some stooping and a fairly steep descent (and climb back up), as you head down a 350m ramp until you’re 73m below ground – you can still see blast marks where North Korean soldiers used explosives to break through the rock. The tunnel was wide enough for 30,000 armed troops to pass through per hour if it had been used.

Different tours often include different areas, so it’s worth checking the details to see where you’ll visit – and some also add in a shopping stop if you’d prefer to avoid those – this tour from Seoul covers the key sights and includes pick-up in Myeongdong, but you’ll find other options on GetYourGuide and Klook

It’s well worth thinking about whether it’s appropriate for your children: those who are particularly sensitive or who are very young may find some of the stories difficult, including a video overview of the war and the realities of a divided nation.

For older kids who are interested in Korea, and its history and culture, it’s an important reminder of the conflict which has shaped South Korea (and the ongoing threat from its neighbour to the north).

You will need your passport with you to be able to go into the DMZ, and it’s only possible on board the official buses – photos are also prohibited in most areas, including at the Third Tunnel (where bags have to go into lockers) and the Observatory (and this is very much enforced).

If you are planning a tour to the JSA (Joint Security Area), it’s only an option for kids aged 11+ – usually combined with a visit to the DMZ, it makes it a full-day tour, so the DMZ alone is enough for most families

K-Pop and Seoul’s Modern Side

HiKR Ground

Easily my daughter’s highlight of our time in Seoul, this fantastic free attraction is unmissable if your kids have even a passing interest in K-pop.

HiKr Ground (pronounced Hiker Ground) is set within the Korea Tourism Organization Seoul Center overlooking the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a five-floor cultural space is dedicated to all things Korean Wave, so you’ll also find temporary exhibitions and displays on other aspects of all things Hallyu – I even had a virtual skateboard ride through Seoul.

But the star attraction is the second floor’s XR Live Studio, where you can film yourself attempting a K-pop music video in a range of brilliantly themed sets: a coin laundry inspired by BTS’s Permission to Dance, a Seoul subway recreation, a space shuttle set, and the epic main ‘My Stage’ with its enormous LED backdrop.

Kids can pick their own music and own backdrop and then just be prepared to get filming. The K-pop studios are closed on Mondays, as is the rest of the 2nd-4th floors.

Despite visiting during peak season, it was unexpectedly quiet – I couldn’t help thinking that the queues would be out of the door if this was in London – so my daughter got to break out a whole string of dance routines without worrying that she was hogging a room. Absolutely brilliant.

If you want to improve your skills before recording your video, you’ll find lots of K-pop dance classes on offer, including options suitable for kids and beginners – this 90-minute class isn’t far from Hongdae, while this class has a private option as well

Take a K-pop tour

If your kids want to live a few of your K-pop dreams, this K-pop tour takes you inside a genuine K-pop agency, where you can write letters to the idols – and buy some authentic K-pop merch.

You’ll also get to film your own videos at HiKR Ground, as well as seeing some genuine idols in action at Kokoon show, including taking some photos with them afterwards. While you won’t see any huge names there, they do cover songs by some of the world’s top K-pop groups so you might get to hear your favourite.

K-Star Road and the GangnamDols

In the heart of Gangnam, K-Star Road is a 1km stretch of road between Apgujeong Rodeo Station and the Cheongdam crossroads, lined with 17 brightly coloured bear sculptures – known as GangnamDols – each one representing a different K-pop group.

Mostly first and second generation groups, you’ll find Psy, BTS, EXO, Girls’ Generation, SHINee, Super Junior and a whole lot more, all rendered in vivid colours. The whole thing is free, open 24 hours, and makes for a very easy afternoon stroll, especially if your children (or indeed you) are K-pop fans.

There are miniature GangnamDol souvenirs available at Gangnamdol Haus near exit 7 of Apgujeong Rodeo Station.

Psy’s Gangnam Style Hands

Just outside the east gate of Coex Mall, you’ll find one of Seoul’s most irresistible photo opportunities: a larger-than-life bronze sculpture of Psy’s iconic crossed-arm Gangnam Style pose.

With the music playing, you’ll inevitably be humming it for the rest of the day, but it’s huge fun to stop for a photo (and recreate the dance if you fancy). Easy to combine with the Starfield Library and K-Star Road too.

Starfield Library at Coex Mall

You don’t have to be an avid reader to be wowed by the Starfield Library at Coex Mall in Gangnam – but if you are, it’s a little slice of book-filled heaven to marvel at as you explore.

The two-storey library is packed with 50,000 books and while those on the top shelves aren’t real (and you can’t take any of the others home), the space is designed to be used for reading and research.

Realistically, unless you’re fluent in Korean, you’ll just stand there an enjoy it – unsurprisingly, it’s an Instagram favourite so most people come, snap some photos, and go.

If you’re exploring Gangnam or other attractions in the Coex Mall (which includes shops and an aquarium), it’s very easy to swing by.

Coex Aquarium

One of the city’s two aquariums, the Coex Aquarium is the largest aquarium in Seoul, home to over 40,000 sea creatures across 16 themed zones.

Also found within the Coex Mall complex, there are sharks, rays, jellyfish galleries, sea turtles, and penguins – plus the rather unexpected spectacle of mermaid performances at certain times of day.

It’s an excellent rainy day activity (and perfect if you’re escaping the summer heat) and tends to be popular, so booking tickets in advance online is strongly recommended and usually cheaper than on the door. Smaller than the Lotte World aqarium, it’s a good option if you just want to spend a couple of hours checking out the marine inhabitants.

Lotte World Aquarium

For another aquarium with the wow factor, head to the Lotte World Mall where the Lotte World Aquarium is even bigger than the one at Coex Mall – you’ll find 650 species, a two-storey ocean view tank and South Korea’s longest underwater tunnel here.

With 13 themed zones which are designed to transport you to the world’s five oceans, it’s known for its larger marine animals – worth knowing that this includes captive Beluga whales – although there are more sharks at Coex.

You can visit even if you’re not heading to the Lotte World amusement park, as it’s a standalone attraction, but it’s easy to combine the two.

Banpo Rainbow Bridge Fountain Show

The Banpo Bridge, spanning the Han River in southern Seoul, might not seem very special during the day but when the sun goes down, it’s the location for one of the city’s most spectacular free shows – a rainbow-coloured fountain that shoots water in dramatic arcs from both sides of the bridge, timed to music.

At sunset, 200 lights illuminate the fountain which sends out its dancing jets of water in a show lasting around 20 minutes. It runs from April to October, around four to six times a day.

It’s inevitably popular, so it’s worth getting there early to find a spot at one of the riverside parks on either bank of the Han – Banpo Hangang Park on the south side is particularly good. Bring a picnic, sit back and enjoy.

Tours of Seoul with kids

Walking tours

You won’t find as many general walking tours in Seoul with kids as some other cities – partly because the city is simply so big, that you’ll either need transport to get around, or because the tour focuses on a particular area or theme.

But there are a few tours to suit families with tweens and teens particularly. This two-hour Essential History Walking Tour fills in some of the background to understanding Korea. Or for a more energetic option, the Royal Guard Ceremony & City Wall Hiking Guided Tour includes the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace with views and a hike along the city walls, plus stories of more recent history.

Or try this half-day City Highlights and Palace tour with hanbok which visits Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Palace Museum of Korea and Bukchon Hanok Village – plus you can opt to do it without hanbok if you prefer. There’s also a storytelling tour of Bukchon Hanok Village by a local, if you’d like to know more than the picturesque facade.

This Nighttime Hidden Gems walking tour is a great way to learn more about life and culture in Korea, as well as taking you to a few places you might not stumble across yourself – including one with links to K-pop demon hunters.

Or teens can discover a bit more about what life is like for people their age in South Korea with this Gangnam Tour on Youth and Society, which looks at some of the realities of life in the country, including pressures facing young people. For something a bit lighter, this tour of Seongsu-dong mixes cafe culture and K-pop.

If you want to visit some of the highlights in a day, you’ll find some full-day tours to introduce you to Seoul – this eight-hour tour visits some key sites, while there are half-day and full-day tours covering some of the city’s top attractions

Food tours

Korean food is fantastic, but the chances are that there’s a lot you won’t have come across before visiting Seoul – and potentially a few things you’re a little unsure about ordering.

So a food tour of Seoul with kids is a fantastic way to discover more about Korean food, taste a few things so you know what to order later and have a lot of fun along the way.

We tried the Secret Food Tours food and market tour which was fantastic, taking us through Gwangjang market as well as Insadong, and mixing in everything from salt bread (which quickly became our new addiction), gimbap and mandu to tteokbokki, hotteok, yukhoe (korean steak tartare), mung bean pancakes and finishing with tea. Easily one of our favourite things to do in Seoul for families.

If you’d prefer to visit Namdaemun Market, this food tour takes you around the sprawling market, with stories of Korean life as well as the food – it’s worth knowing that if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, this tour might not be suitable though.

Wish you knew how to make some of the things you’re trying on your food tour? Combine a market tour and cooking class to get the best of both worlds.

As an alternative to a food tour, you could also try a cooking class – this gimbap cooking class is suitable for age 6+, while you can also join a kimchi-making class (for age 10+) and make mandu (dumplings)

Open-top bus tours

Seoul is big, so however you get around, you won’t be doing it all on foot – which makes the hop-on hop-off bus routes tempting to get an overview of some of the big attractions without too much effort.

There’s guided commentary through the headphones, and if you do want to jump off en route, you can (although it’s better to use the metro if you just want to go from A to B).

The Seoul City Tour Bus takes you from the Gwanghwamun gate on a route with 15 stops, including Myeongdong, Insadong, Namsan and several hanok villages. Or there’s also the Seoul Yellow Balloon City Bus which seems to be practically identical.

Bike tours

As an alternative to four wheels (or two feet), you can also find some bike tours of Seoul for families – as the city’s streets are busy, these tend to take you our of the centre of be suitable for older kids.

If you’re visiting with teens, there’s also an ebike tour of Seoul which takes you past a string of key locations across the capital, or this Seoul ebike tour is suitable for age 10+.

Or escape the bustle with a bike ride along the Han River and by Seoul Forest – bikes are suitable for aged 12+ but you can also get child seats for younger kids if you request them in advance.

Han River Cruise

Taking a cruise on the Han River is a relaxed way to see a different side of the city, with several operators running regular cruises from Yeouido Hangang Park, including Eland river cruises or Golden Boat Marina from Banpo Hangang Park.

Evening sailings are particularly popular, if you’re hoping to see the sun set or watch the city lights reflecting on the water, so do expect the boats to be busy. Some will take you past the Banpo Bridge and the rainbow fountain show too.

Mountains, parks, trails: Getting outdoors in Seoul with kids

Naksan Mountain (Naksan Park)

Naksan is the smallest of Seoul’s four guardian mountains, but it packs a punch for relatively little effort.

The walk up through Naksan Park is manageable for most families and you’ll get some fantastic views over the old city walls and the hanok rooftops below.

The section of the Seoul City Wall that runs over Naksan is particularly lovely – you can follow it for a good stretch without it ever feeling too strenuous.

The park itself is beautiful, especially in spring when the cherry blossoms are out, and the neighbourhood cafés at the base of the hill in Ihwa Mural Village are lovely for a pit stop.

Namsan Mountain and Namsan Park

Namsan is the mountain at the heart of Seoul – a green oasis rising from the middle of the city, topped by the iconic N Seoul Tower.

The mountain is criss-crossed with well-maintained paths and trails, and there’s also a cable car if your kids’ legs (or your own) need a rest – although if you’re hoping to use that to head up for sunset, be prepared to get there early and queue.

The walk up through Namsan Park is lovely with more great views out across the city.

Namsan Park also hosts free cultural performances several times a day – you might come across anything from traditional music to a martial arts demonstration.

N Seoul Tower

Sitting at the top of Namsan Mountain, N Seoul Tower (or Namsan Seoul Tower) is one of Seoul’s most recognisable landmarks, and the views from the observation deck are genuinely spectacular – on a clear day you can see for miles in every direction.

The tower is also famous for its Love Lock Bridge, where couples and families attach padlocks to the railings as a symbol of everlasting affection. I’m not normally a fan of these when they damage existing historic bridges, or if you’re throwing keys into the water which pollutes it, but if you want to be part of the trend, it’s definitely better managed here.

Admission to the observation deck is around 29,000 won for adults and 23,000 for children, which does quickly add up for a family – it’s included in the Discover Seoul Pass, which may make that pass worth considering if you’re planning several attractions. You can also sometimes find discounts on Klook and Get Your Guide.

Lotte World Tower and Seoul Sky Observatory

The Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in South Korea and the sixth tallest in the world – an imposing 555 metres and 123 floors of glass and steel rising dramatically above the Lotte World complex in Jamsil.

The Seoul Sky Observatory at the top has some impressively panoramic views that are genuinely vertiginous and thrilling, including a glass floor section that requires rather more courage than you might expect.

It’s a different experience to N Seoul Tower – the tower itself feels more futuristic and modern – and it’s easy to combine with a visit to Lotte World (see below).

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Running for nearly six kilometres through the heart of downtown Seoul, the Cheonggyecheon Stream is a beautifully restored urban waterway and a remarkable feat of urban regeneration that transformed a concrete-covered road into a peaceful place to walk.

Sauntering alongside stream is a lovely, calming way to pass an hour or two: there are stepping stones, fountains, public art installations, and illuminated displays in the evenings. During our stay, the Seoul Outdoor Library was operating here too, so the banks were lined with locals relaxing with a book and a drink.

But we also wandered along in the early evening, when it’s illuminated – if you’re in the area (such as at HiKR Ground), it’s well worth a bit of a detour to stroll here.

Kids (big and small) love the stepping stones across the water, and in summer the cooler air by the stream provides some welcome relief from the city heat.

Seokchon Lake

Seokchon Lake is a lovely park area surrounding an artificial lake in the Jamsil district, right next to Lotte World and the Lotte Tower, perfect if you want to escape the high rises briefly without having to go too far.

The lakeside paths are easy to stroll around and it’s popular with Korean families who come to stroll, cycle, and picnic here too.

During our visit in spring, the cherry blossoms around the lake were absolutely gorgeous and it becomes one of the most beautiful spots in the city – you can expect it to be much busier then, especially if you visit while the cherry blossom festival is on.

We were a couple of days earlier than the festival dates and made sure to arrive relatively early, but it’s well worth a few busy paths – and this being Korea, everyone is polite and respectful as they go, as well as very ready to take photos if you’d like.

It’s easy to combine with Gangnam which is nearby, as well as Lotte World and Lotte Tower.

Seoul City Wall Trail

The ancient city wall that once enclosed the capital of the Joseon Dynasty hasn’t survived in its original form, but it’s now been largely restored with some walking trails to suit different levels of fitness.

The wall winds its way over and around Seoul’s four guardian mountains – Bugaksan, Naksan, Namsan, and Inwangsan – and the full circuit is around 18km, though you absolutely needn’t attempt all of it in one go.

The Naksan and Namsan sections are the most family-friendly, with some lovely views back down onto the city without needing to be a serious hiker (although inevitably you can’t escape the hilly sections). There are free guided walks available from Seoul Tourism Organisation or you can find routes online to take it at your own pace.

Seoul Forest Park

Seoul Forest is another impressive regeneration project, with an old water treatment facility transformed into a series of themed parks split into different zones.

Along the way you could spot deer, see butterfly enclosures and wander through wetlands, as well as finding playgrounds, and a hidden swimming pool in summer. There are cycling paths too if you want to see more than you can reach on two feet.

The deer park is a big highlight for children, but the whole park is huge and could very happily fill an entire day. The nearby Seongsu neighbourhood – Seoul’s trendiest, most creative district – is perfect for a post-park lunch or ice cream stop.

Theatre shows and live entertainment

Nanta Theatre Show

Running since 1997 and performed over 50,000 times across more than 60 countries, the Nanta show is a genuine Seoul institution and one of the best theatre experiences you can have with children.

Set in a kitchen, the show follows four chefs preparing a wedding banquet, and the physical comedy, drumming, and slapstick that follows is both hilarious and jaw-dropping – the skill and sheer effort of some of the routines are astonishing.

There are virtually no spoken words – Nanta is a non-verbal show in the best possible way – which means there are no language barriers whatsoever, and the physical humour always goes down well with children. There’s some audience participation too.

The dedicated Nanta Theatre in Myeongdong runs shows most days, or you can also see it in Hongdae; book in advance, especially in high season. We booked through Get Your Guide (you can choose different seating areas, but there’s a good view wherever you end up), plus you can also find tickets on Klook.

Jump Theatre Show

Jump is another of Seoul’s long-running theatrical spectacles – a martial arts comedy show that blends taekwondo, ssireum wrestling, and acrobatics with slapstick storytelling.

The action follows a family of martial artists encountering a pair of bumbling burglars, and the result is breathlessly physical and very funny. Again, there are no language barriers, and the sheer energy and athleticism on stage is genuinely impressive.

The JUMP Theatre is in central Seoul, not far from Euljiro-3; again, advance booking is recommended with tickets available on Klook and Get Your Guide.

The Painters

Another great family show that’s perfect if your kids love K-pop, this sees performers mixing dance and art to recreate famous paintings using choreography and live drawing.

But it’s also unexpectedly funny, so don’t think you’re in for a serious evening here either, and there’s plenty of audience participation (especially if you’re sitting at the end of a row).

You’ll come away having seen a whole series of art styles too though, so whether you’re into music, dance, art of just want a fun evening’s entertainment, you’ll get all your boxes ticked with a flourish.

Takes place on Jeongdong-gil, not too far from City Hall and the Heunghwamun Gate. Book with Get Your Guide and Klook.

Seoul Theme Parks

Lotte World

Lotte World Adventure is one of the world’s largest indoor theme parks and huge fun if you’re visiting Seoul with children.

The indoor section means it’s a brilliant wet weather option, and the outdoor Magic Island section gives you additional rides, parade space, and lakeside views when the weather cooperates.

There are rides and attractions for all ages, from very young children through to older thrill-seekers, although the sweet spot is probably age 7-12, while the park also houses Korea’s largest ice skating rink and a cultural museum.

It’s South Korea’s answer to Disneyland, and it wears that comparison proudly. Book tickets in advance – this one gets very busy, particularly at weekends and during school holidays. You’ll find entry tickets on Get Your Guide as well as Klook, which also has combo tickets such as options including Lotte World Aquarium, or it’s included in the Discover Seoul Pass.

Everland

Located around an hour from central Seoul by public transport, Everland is South Korea’s most visited theme park and a full day’s adventure in itself.

The park is divided into themed zones covering everything from gardens and safari experiences to thrill rides and festivals.

The Caribbean Bay water park (open in summer) is particularly popular with families. Everland’s T-Express wooden roller coaster is one of the world’s steepest and is not for the faint-hearted, but there are plenty of gentler alternatives for younger visitors.

Again, the Discover Seoul Pass includes entry which can be a great way for families to save money. If you don’t fancy navigating public transport, you can also find a shuttle bus as well as transfers including entry, or you can get entry tickets with various optional extras from Klook.

Seoul Land

Seoul Land is a classic Korean amusement park within Seoul Grand Park in Gwacheon – a little more low-key than Lotte World or Everland but often better with younger kids.

The rides are fun rather than hair-raising, and the setting within the park grounds is lovely, ideal if you’re looking gentle entertainment instead of adrenaline thrills

Seoul Grand Park itself is enormous – it’s also home to the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and a large zoo – so you can team the theme park with plenty of other activities for a full day out. There are combined tickets for Seoul Land and Seoul Zoo too.

it’s around 30-45 minutes from central Seoul by public transport, depending where you start from.

Food Markets and Shopping

Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market is one of Seoul’s oldest and most famous traditional markets, and for families who love food, it’s absolutely unmissable.

While it’s become more touristy, you’ll still find plenty of locals here, and it’s a great introduction to Korean food – a lot of food tours (including the one we took), will visit here and most stalls are also open late if you enjoy night markets.

The covered market is a riot of colour, noise, and extraordinary smells, with hundreds of vendors selling everything delicious street food, as well as other places to pick up food or local products.

Most places are dedicated to one or two different types of food, so you might find one specialising in mandu (dumplings) and another selling only hotteok – there was one we liked so much here, we went back a second time.

But you can also find mung bean pancakes (bindaetteok), yukhoe (Korean steak tartare), mayak gimbap (a particular type of the seaweed wrapped rice rolls which comes with an addictively good sauce), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) are all market staples.

There’s also a branch of HBAF, which sells almonds (and other nuts and snacks) in more flavours than you might think possible, if kids are looking for something Korean that’s not too challenging.

If you’re looking for branches of HBAF, you don’t have to visit the market – they’re all over Seoul, including in Myeongdong, so you’ll never be too far from a flavoured almond

Namdaemun Market

If Gwangjang Market is Seoul’s best-known food market, then Namdaemun is its oldest and largest traditional market, tracing its origins back to the 15th century.

Today, there are more than 10,000 stalls and shops across a labyrinth of alleys, passages and multi-storey buildings, with different areas often specialising in one particular type of food or item. If you are feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer scale of this maze, it’s good to have an idea of where to aim for before you step inside.

Souvenirs here are usually cheaper than in Myeongdong or the tourist shops near big attractions like the royal palaces, so if you’re after keyrings, fridge magnets, Korean snacks, or socks (and you will be, because Korean socks are fantastic and unexpectedly cheap), this is where to stock up.

Look out for the flagship store of stationery shop Alpha, where you can find everything from notebooks to art materials and craft supplies.

But it’s food that’s the big draw. Kalguksu Alley, tucked behind unassuming plastic-sheet doors near Gate 5 is one of top spots, with a whole string of food stalls selling kalguksu – knife-cut noodles in a seafood or anchovy broth.

Or head to Street Food Alley outside the market if you want to graze your way around, while you’ll find all the classics, like hotteok, mandu, tteokbokki and more.

Top tip: The market is closed on Sundays, so plan your visit for a weekday or Saturday. The best time to arrive is mid-morning, before the lunchtime crowds really descend on the food alleys. And bear in mind this is a working market, so while you’ll be getting the authentic experience, you shouldn’t expect something polished and sanitised for tourists – and it’s all the better for a bit of chaos.

Kakao Friends stores

If you have young kids, don’t miss at least one visit to the Kakao Friends stores around the city to meet the cute Kakao Friends characters.

Ryan the Lion, Apeach the Peach, Frodo the Dog, Con the Crocodile may be familiar if you have a branch of Miniso near you at home, but if not these cheerful characters are absolutely everywhere in Seoul.

The Hongdae Kakao Friends store and the Gangnam Times Square branch are the biggest and best. Expect enormous character models to pose with, floors of branded merchandise ranging from the practical to the completely unnecessary (which you will covet anyway).

If your kids are into animation, it’s worth knowing that sadly the Seoul Animation Center closed in 2024

Artbox

Another favourite whether your kids are K-pop fans or fancy some quirky stationery – or both.

There are branches around Seoul, often with slightly different items if you’re searching for K-pop merch, as my daughter was, and you’ll also find everything from cute post-it notes to face masks.

K-pop stores

You definitely won’t be short of places to pick up some souvenirs if you’re travelling with K-pop fans – even places like Blink jewellery had cards and posters tucked away.

If you’re looking for official light sticks, albums and more, keep an eye out for K mecca, K Town 4U and Withmuu, which all have more than one store in Seoul – often in Myeongdong and Gangnam – so you won’t run short of places to spend your money.

I’m not joking when I say our luggage was 50% heavier going home!

Customisable souvenirs (Wappen House)

Can’t find the souvenir you want? Why not make your own – at places like Wappen House (and some other similar stores), you can create everything from keyrings and pencil cases to tote bags and T-shirts, with a whole string of iron-on patches, embroidery designs and other decorations to add.

Simply choose your base item, pick your personalised decorations and they’ll make it up for you to take away.

If you’re looking for an even more personal souvenir, you could also sign up for a lucky charm workshop or create your own chopsticks as well as taking a calligraphy class.

Keep an eye out too for the photo booths dotted all around – Life4Cuts is one of the big ones but far from the only option – you can get props, often with limited edition K-pop and anime frames too, then after a couple of practice goes (usually), you snap your final four frames to print or download from a QR code

Olive Young

Korea is known for its make-up and skincare, and while Olive Young definitely isn’t the only place to find this, there are branches everywhere. I’m not joking when I say it felt like every third store was an Olive Young sometimes, and many are three or four storeys.

They’re always busy, and the one in Myeongdong felt quite overwhelming, but if you have time, you can find some great bargains. While my daughter tested every lip gloss available (I’m not even exaggerating), I even managed to find a few things for myself.

Olive Young is far from the only place to browse skincare and make-up, of course – TirTir was another of my daughter’s favourites in Myeongdong

Sports and Other Activities

Seoul KBO Baseball Game

You don’t have to be a baseball fan to enjoy a game in Seoul – and even if you are, you’ll find a Korean Baseball Organisation game is rather different than the experience elsewhere.

Korean baseball crowds are famous for their organised cheering sections, with dedicated cheerleaders on the field, synchronised chants for every batter, and a raucous, festive atmosphere that makes a Premier League match look rather subdued by comparison.

The food in the stadium is excellent – fried chicken and beer for the adults, all manner of snacks and treats for kids – and the games themselves are long and relaxed.

Seoul has two main home teams: the LG Twins and the Doosan Bears play at Jamsil Baseball Stadium, while the Kia Tigers and others visit throughout the season. Tickets can be surprisingly affordable, and while big matches sell out quickly, tourists can still pick up seats on the day if you turn up a couple of hours beforehand – the main season runs from April to September.

Or you can make more of an event of it with some extra experiences to book – join the locals to get more involved (plus there’s KBBQ too) or book tickets including food, where you’ll also have a guide to explain what’s going on.

Zoolung Zoolung

This indoor zoo is an unexpected option that’s a hit with younger kids, with around 50 species of smaller animals and birds and the chance to feed some of the creatures living at Zoolung Zoolung.

Calling itself an indoor animal theme park, it’s set over two floors in a mall in Time Square – Yeongdeungpo station is the closest, just south of the Han river – and as well as the animal interactions, there’s also a three-storey playground at the Pirate Cafe to keep kids entertained.

The animals’ enclosures are designed to mimic their natural homes and none are taken from the wild – while some of the animal cafes in Seoul are not always a good environment for their furry inhabitants, there are no animal shows and no forced interactions here.

If you are looking for a more traditional zoo, Seoul Zoo is set in Seoul Grand Park, and is home to more than 3,300 species of animals

Myeongdong Hello Kitty Apple Cafe

If your kids love Hello Kitty – or are generally fans of all things kawaii – the Hello Kitty Apple Cafe is another hit.

Right in the heart of Myeongdong, the cafe is set over two floors with a gift shop on the top floor – although you might spot queues outside at busy times, it’s now been open for a couple of years, so we never saw much of a wait whenever we passed by.

You order using the touchscreen machines and drinks are served in cute themed glasses and cups, while there are also Hello Kitty cakes and sweet treats to try.

Tips for visiting Seoul with kids – need to know

If it’s your first time visiting South Korea, check out my tips for South Korea with kids as well, but here are a few essential tips for exploring Seoul.

Where to stay in Seoul with kids

You definitely won’t be short of places to stay in Seoul with kids – the trickiest part is trying to narrow down which area and which hotel.

Like a lot of families visiting South Korea, we stayed in Myeongdong which has the advantage that it’s easy to get to, has good transport links and is close to a lot of attractions – the downside is that it does often feel very touristy and can get very busy, so choosing somewhere on the edge of Myeongdong meant we could retreat from the busy streets.

We started at the Klaven Hotel – it’s not fancy but it has all the essentials, lots of places to eat nearby and is a bit of a bargain – and finished at the Moxy Myeongdong, which is very fun for teens.

For somewhere a little quieter, Insadong would get my vote – lovely to wander around, also well connected with several subway stations and another good location.

With older teens, Hongdae is another good option – it’s also busy, but this is where you’ll find Hongik University, so it’s got a great vibe.

Getting around

Start by downloading Naver Maps before you travel – while Google Maps has finally been granted access to data by the government this year, it still doesn’t work reliably, so we found Naver Maps the best way to plan journeys by public transport and generally navigate.

You’ll also need a T-Money card for public transport – you can get these easily at the airport, as well as convenience stores, where you can also top them up (with cash). You can also get a Climate Card for Seoul, which gives you 30 days of travel for a flat fee, although if you’re only in the city for a short period, it’s unlikely to be worth doing.

Plan around the weather

Seoul has four distinct seasons, with spring and autumn the best times to explore the city. In spring, you could see the beautiful cherry blossoms (usually blooming in the first half of April) and the temperature isn’t too hot, too, cold or too rainy, while autumn has similarly pleasant temperatures and blazingly colourful leaves.

Summer (June–August) is hot and humid with wet weather throughout July in particular so you’ll need to plan for more rainy days, while winter can be bitterly cold, although you often get clear blue skies.

Book ahead

For popular attractions – Lotte World, Everland, the Changdeokgung Secret Garden tour – book tickets in advance online wherever possible.

You won’t necessarily have to do it far in advance; we booked tickets to Nanta just over a week ahead during April, for example, while the Secret Garden tickets only become available two weeks ahead.

If you’re planning to visit several major attractions such as the theme parks, a Discover Seoul pass can save a lot of money, but it’s worth pricing it up depending on your own family itinerary.

Stay connected

Although you can find WiFi in Seoul, we didn’t find it particularly reliable, either in our first hotel or while we were out and about. As you’re likely to be relying on apps like Naver Maps and Google Translate (although there’s a lot more signage in English than you might expect), you won’t want to be without data.

Pocket WiFi is easy to arrange online and pick up at the airport (I booked ours through Trazy) and can work well if you have multiple family members who want to use it – although be prepared to carry it and a charger around.

Getting an esim is even easier. You can get 10% off an esim with Saily using my code mummytravels10, or Airalo is another good option.

Check out my other posts to help with planning South Korea family holidays – tips for South Korea with kids, what to eat in South Korea with kids, and the best things to do in Gyeongju with kids

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links — any purchases you make are unaffected, but I may receive a small commission.

Images: Seoul Grand Park/kimchi/Changdeokgung Palace/Bukchon hanok village/Namsangol Hanok Village/Coex Aquarium/Banpo Bridge/Han River/N Seoul Tower/Lotte World Tower/Seoul Forest Park/Lotte World/Everland/Namdaemun Market/Seoul subway courtesy of Depositphotos, Gangnam at night/Seoul skyline/Gwangjang Market silver bowls/Gyeongbokgung Palace with cherry blossom courtesy of AdobeStock, all others copyright MummyTravels

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