Seoul With Teens

Planning a trip to Seoul with your teenagers? You’re in for an incredible adventure! South Korea‘s vibrant capital is basically teenager heaven – a perfect blend of cutting-edge technology, pop culture, street food paradise, and Instagram-worthy spots that’ll make their friends back home totally jealous. Trust me, Seoul is one destination where you won’t hear “I’m bored” from your teens!

As a sprawling metropolis of 10 million people, Seoul masterfully blends the ultra-modern with centuries of tradition. Whether your teens are K-pop superfans, tech enthusiasts, foodies, history buffs, or shopping addicts, this city has something to make their eyes light up (and maybe even earn you some cool parent points!).

This is my second time to visit Seoul. Back then (30 years ago), it was just an “okay” destination. All I remember was checking out the Seoul Olympics Stadium, visiting Lotte World, being scammed into dressing up in a hanbok (their traditional attire), and eating (and not liking) ginseng chicken soup. That’s why I wasn’t thrilled when the kids (who are into K-pop) and my wife (who’s into K-dramas) said they wanted to go to South Korea.

But when we started planning our itinerary, I discovered there were a lot of new things to see and do. And when we got to Seoul, we just couldn’t get enough of the city! It’s definitely worth another visit…and another!

Well, enough of the introduction. If you’re planning to go to Seoul with kids or with your teenagers, here’s our guide to what to see, where to go, what to eat, where to stay, and more in Seoul with teens.

Things to Do in Seoul With Teens

Seoul is packed with unique experiences that’ll keep you and your teenagers engaged and excited. Here are some of the best family-friendly activities we did (well, most of them anyway):

Go on a shopping spree

Let your teens loose in South Korea’s beauty paradise, Olive Young (the ultimate beauty store in Myeongdong), or Hongdae’s trendy fashion boutiques (as a bonus, you can watch street performers and budding K-pop groups in Hongdae at night).

Pro tip: Shop at GoTo Mall in Gangnam (Seoul’s largest underground shopping mall with over 600 stores) for real steals. Our teenage girls went crazy shopping!

Eat street food

Book a guided street food tour or go on your own where you can sample everything from tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) to Korean corn dogs. Many tours include visits to multiple neighborhoods and insights into Korean food culture. Perfect for adventurous teenage taste buds!

Come hungry at Myeongdong’s street food night market and try everything from hotteok (Korean pancakes) to tornado potatoes – your teens’ Instagram stories will be on fire!

Dress up in hanbok at the palaces

Channel your inner K-drama star by renting traditional Korean hanbok (our girls enjoyed choosing their outfits and having their hair styled) and exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace or other grand palaces like Changdeokgung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, and Gyeonghuigung Palace (you can’t visit them all, so stick with the most popular ones like Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung).

Trust me, even your most photo-resistant teen will be begging for family pictures in these gorgeous outfits (if you have teenage boys, they can dress up as warriors or assassins). By the way, don’t be self-conscious because 90% of tourists are in hanbok! Get into character and go back in the time of the Joseon dynasty if you want a memorable experience.

Pro tip: Time your visit for the changing of the guard ceremony for an extra wow factor!

Experience Korean BBQ and chimaek

Nothing brings families together like grilling your own meat at the table! Korean BBQ is interactive, delicious, and fun. We loved it so much we ate at two different restaurants – Wangbijip in Myeongdong and Ggupdang in Sinsa.

Follow it up with Korea’s famous fried chicken and beer combo (called chimaek, the Korean words combining “chicken” and “beer” ) at famous chains like BBQ Chicken, Kyochon, and Kkanbu (this might sound like heresy, but I feel like South Koreans make fried chicken better than Americans, and I love American fried chicken!).

Bonus experience: Join a Korean cooking workshop. Channel your inner MasterChef at a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to make classics like kimchi, bibimbap, or Korean BBQ. Many cooking schools offer family-friendly classes with English instruction. Your teens will love showing off their new culinary skills back home!

Explore traditional markets

Take your taste buds on an adventure through Namdaemun and Gwangjang Markets. Watch food vendors prepare traditional snacks, try local delicacies, and hunt for unique souvenirs. These markets are perfect for adventurous eaters and budding foodies!

We had planned to eat at Kalguksu Alley at Namdaemun Market, but we sadly ran out of time. Plus, we also had second thoughts because of complaints about overpriced food, overcrowding, pushy vendors, and less-than-hygienic stalls.

But if you want to experience Seoul’s traditional markets, not just to eat or buy souvenirs, Namdaemun, Gwangjang, Dongdaemun, and Noryangjin markets are often mentioned as the ones to visit.

Dive into K-pop and K-drama culture

Let your teens recreate scenes from their favorite dramas! Visit famous filming locations and get insider gossip about Korean celebrities. Join a guided tour of famous K-drama filming locations and K-pop entertainment companies. Many tours include dance workshops or visits to agencies where you might spot trainees practicing. Your K-pop fan teens will be totally starstruck!

Bonus experience: Join a K-pop dance class. Many dance studios in Gangnam and Hongdae offer beginner-friendly classes in English. Book in advance, as these classes are incredibly popular with visiting teens. Unfortunately, our teens passed up on this opportunity, but if yours are game, this would be a unique experience.

Explore Bukchon Hanok Village

Step back in time with a wander through Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional Korean houses line narrow alleyways that seem frozen in time. This neighborhood is basically a living museum, but with a modern twist – many hanok houses now host trendy cafes, boutiques, and craft workshops.

Discover hidden courtyards and perfect photo spots while learning about traditional Korean architecture. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups and get better photos.

Pro tip: Bukchon is the most well-known and, therefore, most crowded. If you want to experience a less crowded hanok village, try Namsangol Hanok Village or Eunpyeong Hanok Village.

Try a Korean beauty treatment

Take your teen girls for a fun K-beauty experience! Sheet mask shops offer custom facial treatments, while nail art studios create Instagram-worthy manicures. Even teenage boys might enjoy trying unusual products like snail mucus face masks – if only for the novelty factor!

For a true K-beauty experience, head to Gangnam or Myeongdong for a personal color analysis session (₩50,000-150,000) where experts will determine your perfect color palette. We skipped this because it’s quite pricey. But if you don’t mind paying for this, go for it!

Get pampered at a Jjimjilbang

Experience a traditional Korean spa together! These gender-segregated bathhouses offer saunas, hot tubs, and relaxation rooms. Yes, it might seem intimidating at first (and yes, you’ll need to get naked in the bathing areas), but it’s a unique cultural experience that most teens end up loving.

Our itinerary originally included a trip to Aquafield Goyang for a jjimjilbang experience but we had to drop it when Seoul experienced the heaviest snowfall in 117 years!

Take epic photos at trendy photo booths

Seoul is basically one giant photo op! And it probably has the most number of photo booths in any city in the world. Strike a pose in trendy Korean photo booths (so much better than regular selfies!) such as Don’t Look Up and WXCK Photo.

Choose one of the booths (featuring different designs like the subway, an elevator, a toilet, etc.), choose a package, pay with your credit card, and enter the booth where you have 30 seconds to strike different poses. Then select your favorite photos and print them out (scan the QR code to download them along with a GIF file of your poses).

It’s definitely one of the most fun we had in Seoul, so we highly recommend that you do this with your teens!

Conquer VR arcades and PC bangs

Seoul’s gaming scene is next level! Try cutting-edge VR experiences in places like VRZONE or Jump VR. Even non-gamers will get hooked on these immersive adventures. Or spend hours in a PC bang (Korean Internet gaming cafe).

We had so much fun killing zombies at VRZONE. It’s an adrenaline rush and it’s a great way to bond with your teens.

Go cafe hopping

Visiting Seoul with teens is incomplete without cafe hopping. Seoul’s themed cafes are basically made for social media. Visit a cat cafe, board game cafe, or one of those insanely photogenic dessert cafes. The animal cafes are particularly popular with teens!

Theme cafes range from Harry Potter-inspired spaces to dessert cafes serving cloud-like cotton candy and rainbow-colored drinks. Studio Ghibli fans shouldn’t miss the Totoro cafe, while board game cafes offer perfect spots for family bonding. Many cafes open late, making them perfect spots for afternoon breaks between sightseeing or evening hangouts.

Pro tip: Anguk is a great area for cafe hopping, with many cafes and bakeries in Ikseon-dong and Bukchon within walking distance. We loved Cafe Onion, Cheongsudang Bakery, and Jayeondo.

Hike Bukhansan National Park

For active families, hiking in Bukhansan National Park offers an incredible escape from the city buzz. Just a short 20-minute bus ride away from central Seoul, this mountain park features trails for all fitness levels, from easy nature walks to challenging summit hikes.

You will love conquering the peaks for incredible city views and that perfect Instagram shot (or just take a short stroll, like we did). Go early on weekends to avoid crowds, and pack plenty of snacks. As a bonus, grab some coffee and quick eats at the beautiful Starbucks The Bukhansan.

You can also hike Namsan Park on the way to or down from N Seoul Tower. We skipped this, though, as we wanted to get out of the city for a change of pace.

Cruise the Han River or have a picnic

For a different perspective of the city, hop aboard a Han River cruise. Evening cruises are particularly popular with teens, offering spectacular views of Seoul’s illuminated skyline. Many boats feature live music, and some even have special themes like K-pop parties or dinner cruises. It’s a great way to rest tired feet while still soaking in the city vibes. Time your cruise around sunset for the best photo opportunities of Seoul’s bridges lighting up.

Alternatively, when the weather’s nice, join local families for a picnic at Yeouido Hangang Park along the Han River. This massive park comes alive in warmer months with teenagers practicing dance routines, families barbecuing, and couples riding tandem bikes.

Grab some convenience store snacks (Korean convenience stores are next level!) or order chicken delivery right to your picnic spot – a uniquely Korean experience. In spring, this is also one of the best spots to see cherry blossoms. We went in winter, when temperatures dropped to very chilly, so had to skip this experience.

Visit a theme park

Thrill-seekers won’t want to miss Seoul’s amazing theme parks. Lotte World Adventure combines an outdoor magic island with the world’s largest indoor theme park – perfect for any weather! Rides range from gentle boat tours to heart-pumping roller coasters, and the indoor section stays open late for evening fun.

For an even bigger adventure, head to Everland, Korea’s largest theme park. Home to T Express, the steepest wooden roller coaster in the world, it’s guaranteed to impress even the most jaded teenager.

Our teens are not thrill-seekers, so roller coasters are not really their thing. I did visit Lotte World 30 years ago, so that was good enough.

Stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream

The Cheonggyecheon Stream offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. This urban renewal marvel transformed an old highway into a beautiful waterway where families can stroll, dangle their feet in the water (in summer), and enjoy seasonal installations and light shows.

Evening walks are particularly magical when the stream lights up and young street musicians perform under the bridges. It’s a favorite spot for local teens to hang out, especially during festivals when the entire stream becomes an art exhibition.

Take epic day trips

Venture beyond Seoul with exciting day trips that each offer something unique. History buffs will love exploring Suwon’s UNESCO-listed fortress walls, while K-drama fans can’t miss Nami Island’s romantic tree-lined paths (famous from “Winter Sonata”). Gyeongju, Korea’s ancient capital, feels like traveling back to the Silla Dynasty with its royal tombs and temples.

For something truly unique, explore Gwangmyeong Cave, a former gold mine turned cultural space with light shows and sculptures. These day trips are perfect for breaking up a Seoul-heavy itinerary and showing teens different sides of Korea.

We had originally planned to explore Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and the new Suwon Starfield Library, but we admittedly overbooked our schedule and ran out of time. We’ll definitely visit Suwon when we come back!

What to See in Seoul With Teens

These neighborhoods and attractions are guaranteed to keep your teens engaged and their social media feeds popping! Each area has its own unique vibe and endless opportunities for exploration:

Myeongdong

The ultimate shopping mecca that comes alive at night! During the day, you can hunt for the latest K-beauty trends in massive multi-story cosmetic shops, browse international fashion brands, and explore underground shopping centers. As evening falls, the streets transform into a foodie paradise with vendors cooking up everything from tornado potatoes to giant cotton candy.

Some people say it’s mostly tourists you’ll find here and it’s overcrowded and overpriced. But we loved Myeongdong. The energy here is infectious, the street food experience is fun, and the neon lights make for amazing photos.

Seongsu-dong

Often called “Seoul’s Brooklyn,” this former industrial area has been transformed into the city’s hippest neighborhood. Your teens will love the Instagram-worthy cafes housed in converted factories, independent fashion boutiques, and artsy vibes.

It’s less touristy than other areas, giving them a glimpse of where young, creative Seoulites hang out. The industrial-chic aesthetics and specialty coffee shops make this area particularly popular with teen photographers and social media enthusiasts.

We enjoyed exploring Seongsu-dong even more than Gangnam. It’s highly walkable and your teens will feel at home in this trendy area full of Gen Zs.

Ikseondong & Insadong

These neighboring areas perfectly blend old and new Korea. Insadong’s main street is packed with traditional craft shops, tea houses, and artwork – perfect for souvenir hunting. Ssamziegil is a multi-level building packed with artisan shops and craft stores.

Meanwhile, Ikseondong’s narrow alleyways house traditional hanok buildings that have been converted into trendy cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. Teens especially love the quirky fusion cafes serving traditional Korean desserts with modern twists. The contrast between ancient architecture and contemporary culture makes for fascinating exploration.

We enjoyed exploring both Insadong and Ikseondong, checking out shops and trying out cafes and bakeries.

Hongdae

If your teens love K-pop and youth culture, this is their paradise! The area around Hongik University pulses with energy thanks to street performers, dance groups, and live musicians.

Countless shops sell trendy clothes at student-friendly prices, while quirky cafes offer everything from board games to animal interactions. The graffiti-decorated walls and independent art galleries showcase Korea’s creative side. Come weekend evenings to see the area at its liveliest, with impromptu dance performances and youthful crowds.

People come here to shop (vintage clothes are quite popular), but we found the prices still a bit high. But you should definitely visit for the vibe and free performances.

DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza)

This architectural marvel designed by Zaha Hadid looks like a spaceship landed in Seoul! The curved metal exterior is spectacular both day and night, but the real magic happens after dark when thousands of LED roses illuminate the garden.

Inside, you’ll find design exhibitions, fashion shops, and cultural events. The DDP souvenir shop has plenty of cute souvenirs. The 24-hour shopping malls nearby make this a favorite late-night destination – perfect for teens who love to stay up late!

COEX Starfield

This isn’t just another mall – it’s an entertainment complex that could keep your teens occupied for days! The stunning Starfield Library with its towering bookshelves is a must-visit photo spot (even if they don’t read Korean). SMTown at COEX artium is heaven for K-pop fans, with interactive exhibits and a hologram theater. Add in an aquarium, a movie theater, and countless shopping and dining options, and you’ve got the perfect rainy-day destination.

Ehwa Womans University

Don’t let the fact that it’s a university put you off – this area is a teen shopping paradise! The streets leading to the beautiful campus are lined with affordable fashion boutiques, cute cafes, and trendy restaurants catering to students. The campus itself, with its stunning modern architecture and gardens, provides great photo opportunities.

However, we didn’t explore beyond the main road as the parallel streets seemed dark and awfully quiet.

Olympic Park

This massive green space offers a perfect break from urban exploration. The park hosted the 1988 Olympics and still maintains world-class sports facilities. You can rent bikes to explore the sculpture park, join locals exercising on outdoor equipment, or attend concerts at the Olympic Stadium. It’s also a popular location for K-drama filming.

We skipped this but I went here three decades ago. If you’re into sports or the Olympics, this could be a quick stop.

Seoul Forest Park

Think of this as Seoul’s version of Central Park, but with deer! Less crowded than other tourist spots, this park offers a more relaxed vibe. You can feed deer at the ecological forest, explore the butterfly garden, or just chill on the grass watching local families enjoy their weekend. The former industrial structures converted into cultural spaces add a unique touch, and the nearby cafes in Seongsu-dong make for perfect pit stops.

Where to Stay in Seoul With Teens

Choosing the right neighborhood can make or break your Seoul experience. Here’s a detailed guide to help you pick the perfect base for your family:

Myeongdong

Perfect for first-time visitors and shopping enthusiasts! This central location puts you within walking distance of major attractions and right in the middle of Seoul’s shopping action. The area is well-connected by public transport (Seoul Station and multiple subway lines), safe for teens to explore independently, and packed with street food options for late-night cravings. Hotels here range from luxury to mid-range, and many offer family rooms. The only downside? It can get pretty quiet after the shops close.

Hongdae

The ultimate cool zone in Seoul with teens! This university area stays lively until late but remains family-friendly. You’ll find endless entertainment options, from karaoke rooms and arcade centers to street performances and cafe hopping. The area has plenty of affordable dining options and is well-connected by public transport. Hotels tend to be boutique-style or mid-range, perfect for families who want to experience Seoul’s youth culture. Just be prepared for some street noise if your hotel is on the main streets.

Gangnam

For a more upscale experience, this modern district offers luxury shopping, premium beauty clinics, and entertainment complexes. The area is clean, safe, and showcases Seoul’s sophisticated side. Hotels here tend to be high-end, but you’ll get larger rooms and better amenities. It’s a bit farther from traditional attractions, but the excellent subway system makes getting around easy. Perfect for families who prefer a quieter, more refined atmosphere.

Itaewon

Recently gentrified, this area offers Seoul’s most international vibe. You’ll find global cuisines, English-speaking staff in most establishments, and a mix of traditional and modern Korea. The location is central, with easy access to Namsan Seoul Tower and other attractions. Hotels range from boutique to high-end, and the area is relatively quiet at night despite its reputation as a nightlife district. Great for families who want a taste of home while experiencing Korean culture.

Insadong

For culture enthusiasts, this traditional neighborhood puts you right in the heart of historic Seoul. You’re walking distance from palaces, traditional markets, and authentic tea houses. Hotels here often include traditional hanok options – perfect for families wanting a unique Korean experience. The area is quieter at night but still safe and well-connected. Just note that rooms in traditional accommodations might be smaller than western-style hotels.

Garosugil

Think of this as Seoul’s version of a European boulevard, lined with trendy cafes and designer boutiques. The tree-lined streets offer a more relaxed shopping experience than Myeongdong, and the area is known for its brunch spots and dessert cafes. Hotels tend to be boutique-style, and the neighborhood is relatively quiet at night. Perfect for families who want a sophisticated but laid-back base.

Dongdaemun

A paradise for night owls and fashion lovers! This area is famous for its 24-hour shopping malls and wholesale fashion markets. The futuristic DDP provides architectural eye candy, while traditional markets offer authentic Korean experiences. Hotels here often cater to Chinese tourists and shopping groups, but you’ll find some good family options. The area is very lively at night, so light sleepers might want to stay elsewhere.

Apgujeong

Known as the Beverly Hills of Seoul, this upscale area in Gangnam is where K-pop stars hang out. You’ll find high-end boutiques, luxury beauty salons, and some of Seoul’s best restaurants. The area around Garosugil street is especially popular with teenagers for its fashion boutiques and cafes. Hotels are mostly high-end, but you’re paying for location and luxury. Perfect for families who want to experience Seoul’s glamorous side and don’t mind splurging.

Jongno

This historic district puts you right in the heart of ancient Seoul, walking distance from major palaces, temples, and traditional markets. The area beautifully blends old and new Korea, with traditional tea houses alongside modern cafes and shops. Hotels range from luxury to budget, including some beautiful hanok stays. The central location and excellent public transport connections make it ideal for families who want to experience both historic and modern Seoul. The area is relatively quiet at night but safe and well-lit.

Chungmuro

Often overlooked by tourists, this central district offers great value for families. Located between Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, it provides easy access to shopping areas while being slightly removed from the crowds. The area has a local feel with plenty of authentic restaurants and small shops. Hotels tend to be mid-range and business-oriented, often offering larger rooms than tourist areas. Perfect for families who want a central location without the tourist markup. The nearby Namsangol Hanok Village provides a peaceful retreat from city life.

We considered staying in Jongno or Hongdae but settled for Chungmuro. It was the right decision. It’s one or a few subway stops away from Myeongdong, Jongno, Anguk, and Dongdaemun. It’s safe, quiet, and much more affordable. We stayed at Sollago Myeongdong Hotel & Residence, just a five-minute walk from Chungmuro Station.

What to Eat in Seoul With Teens

Korean cuisine is a fantastic adventure for teenage palates, combining familiar flavors with exciting new tastes.

Korean BBQ greatest hits

Let’s start with the ultimate interactive dining experience: Korean BBQ. Gather around a table with a built-in grill and cook your own feast of samgyeopsal (pork belly), galbi (marinated ribs), or bulgogi (sweet marinated beef). The fun of cooking together makes it a perfect family bonding experience, and the variety of side dishes (banchan) lets everyone find their favorites. It’s a must experience!

Street food adventures

Street food is where Seoul really shines, especially for teens who love to snack and share on social media. Don’t miss tteokbokki, chewy rice cakes in a spicy-sweet sauce that’s practically the national teen snack. Korean corn dogs take the humble hot dog to new heights with creative coatings like crispy ramen noodles or hot Cheetos. For a quick meal on the go, grab some gimbap (Korean sushi rolls) or warm, freshly made mandoo (dumplings) from street vendors. Also something you shouldn’t miss!

Comfort food favorites

For a taste of Korean comfort food, start with bibimbap, a colorful rice bowl topped with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg – perfect for picky eaters since they can choose their toppings. Japchae, sweet potato noodles stir-fried with vegetables, offers a mild but flavorful introduction to Korean cuisine. On cold days, warm up with kalguksu, a soothing noodle soup, or spicy dakgalbi, a chicken stir-fry that’s often cooked at your table.

Trendy must-tries

Don’t forget to try some trendy favorites that teens love. Budae jjigae (Army stew) has an fascinating history and combines Korean and American ingredients in a spicy stew. Chimaek – Korean fried chicken and beer (swap for soda for teens!) – is a cultural phenomenon that’s taken the world by storm. In summer, cool down with naengmyeon, refreshing cold noodles in a tangy broth. And of course, no meal is complete without kimchi – let your teens try different varieties of this fermented side dish that’s central to Korean cuisine.

Instagrammable desserts

A trip to Seoul with teens isn’t complete without exploring the city’s incredibly photogenic dessert scene! Start with bingsu, a towering shaved ice dessert that comes in endless flavors – the mango bingsu at Sulbing is a crowd favorite, while traditional pat bingsu topped with sweet red beans offers a taste of classic Korea.

For Instagram-worthy treats, head to dessert cafes in Garosugil or Hongdae where you’ll find cloud-like cotton candy creations, towering ice cream sundaes, and croissants stuffed with colorful fillings.

Don’t miss the famous Korean street desserts either – try hotteok (sweet filled pancakes), bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastries filled with red bean or cream), and tornado potatoes drizzled with sweet sauces.

Creative cafes are constantly launching new trending desserts, from souffle pancakes that wobble when you poke them to rainbow-colored macarons and character-themed cupcakes that are almost too cute to eat.

When to Go to Seoul With Teens

Each season in Seoul offers a unique experience, and choosing the right time can make a huge difference in your family’s adventure:

• Spring (March-May) – This is prime time for visiting Seoul! Cherry blossoms paint the city pink in early April, creating magical photo opportunities in parks and along streets. Temperatures are mild (averaging 15-20°C/59-68°F), perfect for outdoor exploring. Pack layers though, as evenings can be cool. This is high season, so book accommodations well in advance and expect larger crowds at popular spots.
• Summer (June-August) – Hot and humid with temperatures often hitting 30-35°C (86-95°F). The monsoon season brings occasional heavy rain, but Seoul is well-equipped with underground shopping areas and indoor attractions. This is a great time to experience Korean summer culture – join locals at water parks, evening riverside gatherings, and late-night markets. Many festivals happen during summer, and the extended daylight hours give you more time for exploring. Pro tip: Duck into cafes and shopping centers for air conditioning breaks!
• Fall (September-November) – Many consider this the best time to visit Seoul. The humidity drops, temperatures are comfortable (15-20°C/59-68°F), and the fall foliage transforms the city’s parks and mountains into a spectacular display of reds and golds. Perfect weather for hiking Bukhansan or exploring outdoor markets. Pack light layers as temperatures can vary significantly between morning and evening. This season also tends to have the clearest skies – great for city views from Seoul’s observation decks.
• Winter (December-February) – Don’t let the cold temperatures (often below 0°C/32°F) put you off! Seoul transforms into a winter wonderland with festive lights, holiday markets, and cozy café culture. Indoor attractions like COEX Mall and Lotte World are perfect for winter days, while outdoor activities like ice skating at Seoul Plaza or skiing at nearby resorts offer winter fun. Plus, winter is perfect for enjoying Korean comfort foods like hot pot and street food favorites like hotteok (sweet filled pancakes). Just pack plenty of warm layers and heat packs (available at any convenience store).

We went during the last week of November until the first week of December, so we missed most of the autumn leaves. But we did experience the heaviest snowfall in Seoul in 117 years! Thankfully, it lasted for just a couple of days and we had sunny (but still chilly) days most of the time.

How Long to Stay in Seoul With Teens

Planning the right length of stay in Seoul is crucial for a successful family trip. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your options:

• Minimum Stay: 5 days – This gives you enough time to see major attractions and adjust to the time difference. Five days allows for visiting the main palaces, exploring a few key neighborhoods, and getting a taste of Korean culture without feeling too rushed. However, you’ll need to prioritize activities and probably skip day trips.
• Ideal Stay: 7-10 days – This sweet spot gives you time to really experience Seoul at a comfortable pace. You can explore multiple neighborhoods thoroughly, take 1-2 day trips, and even have some downtime for shopping or cafe hopping. It also allows flexibility for weather changes or unexpected discoveries your teens might want to explore.
• Extended Stay: 14+ days – Perfect for families wanting to fully immerse themselves in Korean culture. This length allows for multiple day trips, language learning experiences, cooking classes, and deeper exploration of non-tourist areas. You can also combine your Seoul stay with visits to other Korean cities like Busan or Jeonju.

We stayed for a week, which allowed us to check off most of the items in our itinerary. But since it was so packed, we did miss some, like Suwon, Itaewon, Nandaemun, Eunpyeong Hanok Village, Aquafield Goyang, Garosu-gil, Seoul Forest Park, and N Seoul Tower.

I think 10 days would have been better to see more of the city, plus do a couple of day trips. Still, we did see and did a lot in those seen days. And it just gives a good reason to come back!

Seoul Itinerary With Teens

Here’s a 7-day itinerary to Seoul with teens that balances must-see attractions with teen-friendly activities and enough flexibility for your family’s interests:

Day 1: Arrival & Myeongdong Exploration

• Morning: Arrive and check-in (grab coffee at a cute cafe to fight jet lag!)
• Afternoon: Explore Myeongdong’s beauty stores and fashion shops
• Evening: Join a guided street food tour or just DIY to sample local delicacies

Day 2: Traditional Korea in Style

• Morning: Rent hanbok near Gyeongbokgung Palace (go early to avoid crowds)
• Late Morning: Explore the palace and watch the guard changing ceremony
• Afternoon: Wander through Bukchon Hanok Village’s traditional alleys
• Evening: Stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream

Day 3: K-Culture Immersion

• Morning: Visit a K-pop entertainment company or join a dance class
• Afternoon: Shop at Hongdae’s trendy fashion boutiques
• Evening: Explore Hongdae’s street art and watch buskers perform

Day 4: Thrills & Technology

• Morning: Visit Lotte World Adventure theme park or explore COEX Mall
• Afternoon: Continue at Lotte World
• Evening: See the DDP’s LED rose garden

Day 5: Seoul’s Hip Side

• Morning: Explore Seongsu-dong’s industrial-chic cafes
• Afternoon: Visit Common Ground container mall
• Evening: Take in the views from Namsan Seoul Tower

Day 6: Nature & Relaxation

• Morning: Light hike in Bukhansan National Park
• Afternoon: Experience a jjimjilbang (Korean spa)
• Evening: Han River cruise

Day 7: Markets & Modern Seoul

• Morning: Explore Gwangjang Market for traditional snacks
• Afternoon: Shop in Gangnam’s luxury stores
• Evening: Visit a themed cafe

How to Get Around Seoul with Teens

Seoul’s transportation system is incredibly efficient, safe, and perfect for families with teens. Here’s a quick guide:

• Subway system: The backbone of Seoul transportation. Clean, affordable, and extensive, with announcements in English. Get T-money cards for everyone – they work on all public transport and offer discounted transfers. You can buy them at convenience stores. It’s what we used to get around. Trains run from 5:30 AM to midnight, with clear signage and station exits numbered for easy navigation. Most stations have free Wi-Fi and restrooms.
• Bus network: Comprehensive and color-coded: blue buses for major routes, green for local neighborhoods, red for express services, and yellow for circular routes. Buses display stops in English and have dedicated seats for families.
• Taxis: Safe, reliable, and relatively affordable compared to other major cities. Regular taxis are silver or orange, while black premium taxis offer more space and English-speaking drivers (well, supposedly, since the day we arrived, black premium taxi drivers couldn’t understand us!). The Kakao T app allows you to book taxis and input destinations in English. Most drivers accept credit cards.
• Walking: Seoul is incredibly pedestrian-friendly, with wide sidewalks and excellent signage in English. Underground shopping centers connect many subway stations, perfect for rainy days or hot summers. Major tourist areas have tourist police who can help with directions. Once you reach a district or neighborhood by train, unless it’s a huge one like Gangnam or Itaewon, you can just walk around.
• Bike rental: Seoul’s public bike system, Seoul Bike (formerly Ttareungyi), is perfect for exploring the Han River parks. Your T-money card works for bike rentals too.

Forget Google Maps. Download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for real-time English navigation (we prefer Naver). It’s all you need to get around. We mostly took the subway, only taking the bus to go to Bukhansan National Park. We also did a lot of walking, averaging 15,000 to 20,000 steps per day!

FAQs

Is Seoul safe for teenagers?
Yes! Seoul has incredibly low crime rates and excellent public safety. Overall, we always felt safe when we were there. Just use normal city precautions and keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas.

Do we need to speak Korean?
Basic phrases help, but many young Koreans speak some English, especially in tourist areas. Download translation apps just in case, and learn simple phrases like “thank you” (gamsahamnida) and “excuse me” (shillyehamnida).

What’s the best area to stay with teens?
Myeongdong or Hongdae are ideal for first-timers – central, safe, and full of teen-friendly activities. Hongdae is better for night owls, while Myeongdong is more convenient for sightseeing. However, hotel rates could be more expensive. We stayed in the Chungmuro area, a train-stop away from Myeongdong.

How’s the Wi-Fi situation?
Seoul has fast, free Wi-Fi in most public places, cafes, and on public transportation. Most cafes also offer power outlets for charging devices. But I suggest you get a SIM card or e-SIM with unlimited data and local number (for restaurant reservations).

What’s the budget for a family trip?
Mid-range budget: $200-300 per day for a family of four, including accommodation, food, and activities. You can spend less by staying in budget hotels and eating at local restaurants, or more with luxury hotels and shopping.

Are restaurants teen-friendly?
Absolutely! Korean dining is casual and social, perfect for teens. Many restaurants have English menus or picture menus, and staff are usually happy to help explain dishes. And if you’re tired of Korean food, there are plenty of international options.

Is tap water safe to drink?
Yes, but most locals drink filtered or bottled water, which is readily available and inexpensive. Most restaurants serve water, too.

Remember, traveling in Seoul with teens is all about balance – mix cultural experiences with modern entertainment, leave some free time for shopping and exploring, and always keep snacks handy (hangry teenagers in a foreign country is no fun!). With some careful planning and flexibility, your Seoul family adventure will create memories that last a lifetime!