South Korea is an excellent destination for family holidays, offering a unique mix of safety, cultural experiences and modern attractions. With efficient transport, child-friendly food and a wide range of activities – from K-pop experiences and theme parks to national parks and traditional villages – it’s particularly well suited to families with children aged 6 and above.
Often overlooked in favour of Japan, South Korea offers a similarly fascinating blend of old and new, but with fewer crowds and often better value. From the vibrant streets of Seoul to the beaches of Busan and the volcanic landscapes of Jeju Island, it’s a destination that delivers variety, adventure and ease of travel in equal measure.
Seoul’s streets are buzzing with lights, music, and nonstop shopping
Is South Korea good for a family holiday?
Much like its Chinese and Japanese neighbours, the country offers the perfect blend of ancient and modern, rural and urban during a family holiday to South Korea.
Alongside the vibrant blend of cutting-edge technology, rich history and dynamic culture of cities like Seoul and Busan, you’ll find a more relaxed pace of life and truly beautiful rural and coastal surrounds. Think green mountains, vast rice paddies and bamboo forests. It’s here, in the far more tranquil setting, that you’ll discover authentic Korean culture, traditional houses (hanoks), and markets.
Traditional houses in Bukchon Hanok village and Namsan Seoul Tower in the distance
If you’re looking for an unusual, more off-the-beaten-track destination, a place whose diverse rural, metropolitan and coastal landscapes offer the perfect backdrop to a huge range of exciting activities, from K-Pop shows to snorkelling, read on to find out more about a family holiday in South Korea!
Why is South Korea a great destination for families?
A South Korea family holiday offers an exciting balance that other destinations struggle to achieve – where tradition meets modernity. Here are just some of the reasons why South Korea makes for a fabulous family adventure, and check out our sample 2-week South Korea family itinerary to see how much you see and do on a typical trip.
Spot the mural of K-pop singers in Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan
It’s easy to get around South Korea
Whilst we offer fully accompanied family holidays with a driver /guide, public transport is world-class: efficient, affordable and easy to navigate – even with children. High-speed KTX trains connect cities, whilst there are extensive subway networks in major cities and colour-coded buses for tourists, as well as reliable taxis. Express buses are also excellent.
Chery-tree-lined station in Jinhei
Is South Korea safe for children?
South Korea consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. Not only does it have a very low crime rate, but the culture is generally respectful, and public spaces are clean, well-kept and maintained.
Cultural experiences the kids will love
South Korea boasts a myriad of accessible and fun-for-all-the-family cultural experiences. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of Seoul’s five royal palaces and dress up in hanbok, the traditional style of Korean dress. Dive into Tongin Market, purchase some Yeopjeong (traditional brass coins) and browse the stalls along the alleyway, filling up your very own personalised bento box as you go. So much fun, and everyone gets what they want!
Palace Guard at the Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul
Learn how to make kimchi and bibimbap in a Korean cooking class. Participate in a Taekwondo lesson. Visit the ancient city of Suwon with its UNESCO World Heritage sites of Hwaseong Fortress and Suwon Fortress for some archery.
Explore the Korean Folk Village, a popular filming location for many Korean dramas and catch a glimpse of what daily village life would be like under the Joseon dynasty whilst watching a variety of performances from dance to theatre. Stroll through the colourful, twisting, labyrinthine alleyways packed with murals of Gamcheon Culture Village and visit the Jagalchi Fish Market.
In Gyochon Village, which hosts traditional folk music events, you can step inside the ancient hanok houses and visit the Confucian shrine. Or experience the very unique Gangchon rail bike on Nami Island. These rail bikes allow you to pedal along the old railway through tunnels that are lit up with coloured effects and have music – fun for big and small kids alike!
Haedong Yonggunsa Temple, Busan
Modern-day family fun
From interactive museums to giant theme parks, family-friendly fun is everywhere in South Korea – and there’s something for everyone! Lotte World in Seoul is the world’s largest indoor theme park and has a fantasy, Disney-esque feel to it. Rides include gyro swings, flumes and bungee drops.
Just outside of Seoul, you’ll find Legoland Korea as well as Caribbean Bay water park. Futuristic tech attractions like robotics and VAR are also a big deal here – check out the latest technology at the interactive Samsung d’light. Or enjoy some mind-bending time at the Alive Museum on Jeju Island, the world’s largest optical art illusion theme park – like nothing you have ever experienced before!
Ride on the multicoloured Haeundae Sky Capsule train in Busan
For rides with a difference, how about the Skyline Luge in Busan? Hurtle down 2.4km of track packed with twists and turns – thrilling for all the family. And no visit to Busan would be complete without taking the Haeundae Sky Capsule, an automated enclosed ride along a 2km elevated track with stunning coastal views. Or for those looking for an adrenaline ride in the fresh air, take the zipline over the water onto Nami Island.
With numerous aquariums, including Aqua Planet in Jeju and SeaLife Aquarium in Busan and Seoul, there are plenty of attractions to suit all ages.
Fabulous food & cooking classes
How could we not mention the superb and predominantly very healthy cuisine found here? Korean cuisine, like the rice bowls of Bibimbap, noodle dishes, BBQ (Bulgogi and Galbi), and stews (Jjigae), is usually freshly cooked and packed with vegetables and, surprisingly, relatively mild. Restaurants always serve child-friendly options alongside more adventurous options.
Our South Korea family holidays will usually include cookery experiences as well as market visits. And a trip to Black Pork Street on Jeju Island is a MUST!
Food stalls in Seoul’s Gwangjang Market
What are the best things to do in South Korea with kids?
Our tailor-made South Korea family itineraries focus on offering what we think is the ultimate blend of big-city wow and more relaxed coastal and traditional countryside culture. Typically, our bespoke trips include most of these highlights and family-friendly activities.
Seoul
South Korea’s capital city is one of the greatest cities in Asia and is home to over 20 million people. It is an exhilarating metropolis teeming with bustling markets, oodles of eateries, intoxicating bright lights, and a treasure trove of historical sites. Located in the northwest of the country not far from the North Korean border, Seoul’s buzzing energy make it a fabulous place to explore 24/7. Visit the COEX Mall, the largest in Asia, watch a live K-Pop show at Inkigayo, and whizz up the Seoul Sky Tower. From Seoul, you can also visit the infamous DMZ for a peek into North Korea.
Seoul’s Sky Tower
Nami Island and Sokcha
Nami Island found fame as a filming location for the popular K-drama ‘Winter Sonata’ and is beautiful year-round. Sokcho is a gateway to Seoraksan National Park, packed with stunning mountains, gorgeous rivers, dramatic waterfalls and hiking trails. Take the cable car ride to the top of Gwongeumseong Peak, then visit the fishing village of Abai, formerly populated by refugees from North Korea.
Seoraksan National Park
Gyeongju
A key cultural highlight of any family holiday to South Korea, Gyeongju is known as ‘the museum without walls’ and offers a real insight into Korea’s past. Bulguksa Temple is one of the most important UNESCO sites in the country, Gyochon Folk Village showcases life during the Joseon period and the Daereungwon Tombs are an iconic collection of 23 burial mounds. At the Wolji Pond, you can enjoy a stunning sunset along with some beautifully orchestrated lighting effects in front of the impressive Donggung Palace.
Wooden Korean Guardian Sculptures in Bulguksa Temple
Busan
Korea’s second city is also referred to as ‘Seoul by the sea’ and offers families a more laid-back urban experience. Here you’ll find an abundance of markets, including Busan’s 600-year-old Jagalchi Fish Market, and the far less smelly Gukje market. Busan is home to South Korea’s most famous sandy bay, Haeundae Beach and Haedong Yonggunsa Temple, where wishes apparently come true. Or for a hidden gem, discover the Dakbatgol Mural Village by cable car.
Haeundae Beach, Busan
Jeju Island
A short flight from the mainland, Jeju Island is a jewel in the archipelago of South Korea’s southern coast, and its largest island. It is known for its volcanic scenery, idyllic waters, coral seascapes, golden, palm-fringed beaches – and the famous Haenyeo, all-female free divers, most of whom are over 60 years old!
Haenyeo, female free-divers
Hike Mount Hallasan, explore Seongsan Ilchulbong and its volcanic crater, kayak Soesokkak estuary, and cool down in the mist created by the 23-metre high Cheonjiyeon Waterfall. There are hundreds of stunning beaches to enjoy, from the famous ‘insta’ spot of Hyeopjae to the more peaceful sandbanks of Geumneung. Known as the Hawaii of Korea, this subtropical island is the perfect place for a few days, as busy or relaxing as you wish!
Cheonjiyeon Waterfall
When is the best time to visit South Korea with children?
The best times for families with school-aged children to visit South Korea are Easter, late spring (May Half Term), or October Half Term, for the perfect balance of temperatures, fewer crowds and lower costs. Peak summer is generally too hot and humid to visit, whilst winter is too cold and snowy.
Easter & Spring holidays (March / April and May half term)
– Mild temperatures, cherry blossoms, wildflower blooms
– Some crowds, especially on the weekends
– Excellent for outdoor sightseeing and parks
Autumn half term (October)
– Comfortable weather and clear skies
– Ideal for sightseeing with children
– One of the best times for a family holiday in South Korea
Should you combine a family holiday in South Korea with Japan?
In a word: yes!
A South Korea family holiday pairs exceptionally well with Japan as part of a multi-centre trip. The two countries are close neighbours, making travel between them straightforward, with short flight times of around 1.5 to 2 hours and frequent connections linking cities such as Seoul and Busan with Tokyo and Osaka.
Find out about traditional Japanese and South Korean cultures on a multi-centre family holiday
Combining South Korea and Japan also works well thematically. Both countries offer a fascinating blend of tradition and modern life, yet each has a distinct culture and character, giving families a sense of contrast as well as continuity. Children are often drawn to the pop culture and theme parks found in both destinations, while parents appreciate the excellent safety standards and efficient transport systems that make travelling with a family easy and reassuring.
We’d love to help
Ready to start planning your South Korea family holiday? Our team specialises in tailor-made trips designed around your children’s ages, interests, and pace of travel. Get in touch to start building the ideal itinerary for you and your family. Ring us during office hours at 01728 752751, or use our website contact form.
