Traveling Korea with a Toddler: What We’ve Learned So Far

We moved to Korea when our daughter was just 3 months old — now she’s nearly 2, and we’ve had the chance to experience life here with a baby and a busy toddler.

This post is part of a growing series on what it’s like living and traveling in Korea (and across Asia) with a little one — from kid-friendly spots to everyday parenting logistics. I’ll be sharing more about the best parks, cafes, museums, and even what it’s like visiting places like Jeju, Busan, and the DMZ with a child in tow.

Strollers and Carriers

I 100% recommend bringing a stroller to Korea — especially for Seoul. A carrier is great for certain spots, but with how much walking you do here, I always prefer having the option of a stroller when my back (or toddler) gets tired.

Seoul has lots of hills and stairs, but Naver Map usually lets you choose routes with fewer stairs. That said, I’ve hauled our stroller up and down plenty — both with help and solo. You can usually find elevators at train stations if you look closely. If you don’t see one near the stairs, check for a sign on the wall that shows which exit has elevator access, then match it with the exit numbers in your map.

When you’re entering restaurants or small shops, it’s common to leave strollers outside — Koreans are very trusting, and we’ve never had an issue. That said, I always keep valuables (phone, wallet, etc.) with me just in case.

Transportation

We have a car here (which is a game changer with kids), and parking in Seoul is surprisingly easy and affordable. But if you’re visiting short-term, I’d recommend using public transportation and taxis instead of renting a car in Seoul. Jeju is a whole different story- I 100% recommend a rental there.

Taxis are much cheaper here than in the U.S., Japan, or Australia. We often use them when we have visitors. Uber works in Korea, but most people use Kakao T (a Korean taxi app). I’ve had occasional issues with Kakao and credit cards, so we often just hail taxis or use Uber. Most taxis in Seoul accept credit cards or T-money cards, but it’s smart to carry a bit of Korean Won just in case.

Subways and buses are clean, cheap, and easy to navigate with Naver Map, Kakao Map, or Google Maps. Google Maps can only be used for public transit and can’t provide walking or driving directions. Your best bet is Naver Map (my fave) or Kakao Map switched to English.

Note: Buses are the least stroller-friendly option, especially during rush hour. They’re doable, but expect a sweatier experience.

Convenience Stores

You’ll find convenience stores everywhere in Korea — CU, GS25, eMart24, and 7-Eleven are the most common.

These are a lifesaver with toddlers:

• Kid-friendly snacks like cheese sticks, crackers, fruit, rice rolls, and yogurt drinks
• Milk, juice, and water (all super affordable — even in airports)

Honestly, some days we build outings around grabbing snacks from the GS.

We’ll do a post all about convenience stores and our favorites.

Kid-Friendly Activities

Korea is packed with fun for both adults and little ones. A few favorites:

• Children’s museums – We love the Seoul Children’s Grand Park Museum (includes a free zoo!) and National Museum Children’s Museum. I’ll share a full list and breakdown in another post.
• Parks – There are tons of open spaces where toddlers can get out and run, especially after stroller-heavy days.
• Kids Cafes – These are a whole thing in Korea. Indoor play spaces designed for babies and kids, often paired with drinks for the grown-ups. Some have full cafes, others just small snack bars.

I’ll be writing a separate post on our favorite kids cafes (and a few we’re excited to try).

The People

Koreans love kids — especially babies and toddlers. As foreigners, we often get lots of attention when we’re out with our daughter.

People are usually very respectful — admiring from a distance or giving a wave. But especially when she was younger, she got offered tons of snacks and candy 😂

Coming Soon

• Jeju with a Toddler
• Trips We’ve Taken from Korea
• Kid-Friendly Korean Cafes

If you’re planning a trip or currently living here with kids, I’d love to hear your experience too! Leave a comment!