Best Neighborhoods for Families in Seoul
Summary: If you're moving to Seoul with kids, here are some of the best neighborhoods in Seoul for families.
Seoul, is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern conveniences. For expat and digital nomad families, choosing the right neighborhood is crucial for a smooth transition to life in this bustling metropolis. Here are eight of the best neighborhoods for families to live in Seoul.
Itaewon
Itaewon is a multicultural hub that is perfect for international families. It is known for its diverse food scene, vibrant nightlife, and welcoming atmosphere. Families can enjoy various activities, such as visiting the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art or exploring the numerous cafes and shops. There are also plenty of playgrounds and sports fields in the area.
Location: Yongsan-gu, central Seoul
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 2.5 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 3.5 million KRW. Average purchase price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 900 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 1.2 billion KRW.
International Schools: Seoul International School (Pre-K to Grade 12, American curriculum), Global Christian Foreign School (K to Grade 12, American curriculum)
Where to Eat: Try The Flying Pan for brunch, Vatos Urban Tacos for Mexican cuisine, or Braai Republic for South African dishes.
Interesting History: Itaewon was a popular area for American soldiers during the Korean War, which has contributed to its multicultural atmosphere.
Parks: Namsan Park is a popular spot for families, offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city.
Gangnam
Gangnam is an upscale district known for its modern skyscrapers, high-end shopping, and excellent schools. Families can enjoy various activities, such as visiting the COEX Aquarium or exploring the numerous cafes and restaurants. There are also plenty of sports fields and playgrounds in the area.
Location: Gangnam-gu, southeastern Seoul
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 3 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 4 million KRW. Average purchase price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 1.2 billion KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 1.8 billion KRW.
International Schools: Seoul Foreign School (Pre-K to Grade 12, American curriculum), Korea International School (Pre-K to Grade 12, American curriculum)
Where to Eat: Try On The Border for Mexican cuisine, Outback Steakhouse for American dishes, or Tokyo Table for Japanese food.
Interesting History: Gangnam began to develop rapidly in the 1980s and has since become one of the most affluent areas in Seoul.
Parks: Seoul Olympic Park is a popular spot for families, offering sports facilities, walking paths, and cultural experiences.
Hongdae
Hongdae is a vibrant and creative neighborhood known for its street art, live music, and youthful energy. Families can enjoy various activities, such as exploring the street art alleys or visiting the Trickeye Museum. There are also plenty of playgrounds and cafes in the area.
Location: Mapo-gu, western Seoul
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 2 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 2.8 million KRW. Average purchase price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 700 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 1 billion KRW.
International Schools: Hongik University Elementary School (K to Grade 6, bilingual curriculum), Ewha International School (K to Grade 6, bilingual curriculum)
Where to Eat: Try Yummy Yummy for Korean-style desserts, The Pizza Pub for American dishes, or Coco Curry for Japanese curry.
Interesting History: Hongdae is named after Hongik University, which is known for its art and design programs and has contributed to the area's creative atmosphere.
Parks: Hongdae Playground is a popular spot for families, offering a large play area for children and seating for parents.
Apgujeong
Apgujeong is an affluent neighborhood known for its luxury boutiques, high-end dining, and excellent schools. Families can enjoy various activities, such as visiting the Horim Art Center or exploring the numerous cafes and restaurants. There are also plenty of sports fields and playgrounds in the area.
Location: Gangnam-gu, southeastern Seoul
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 3.5 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 4.5 million KRW. Average purchase price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 1.5 billion KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 2 billion KRW.
International Schools: Dulwich College Seoul (Pre-K to Grade 12, British curriculum), Seoul Foreign British School (Pre-K to Grade 12, British curriculum)
Where to Eat: Try The Bakery by Barry Callebaut for pastries, The Beastro for American dishes, or Sushi Matsumoto for Japanese cuisine.
Interesting History: Apgujeong was once a pear orchard, and its name translates to "front of the pear orchard."
Parks: Apgujeong Park is a popular spot for families, offering walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground for children.
Ichon-dong
Ichon-dong is a charming and historic neighborhood known for its traditional hanok houses, art galleries, and cafes. Families can enjoy various activities, such as exploring the historic alleys or visiting the National Museum of Korea. There are also plenty of playgrounds and sports fields in the area.
Location: Yongsan-gu, central Seoul
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 2.2 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 3 million KRW. Average purchase price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 800 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 1.2 billion KRW.
International Schools: Seoul Foreign School (Pre-K to Grade 12, American curriculum), Global Christian Foreign School (K to Grade 12, American curriculum)
Where to Eat: Try Ichon-dong Samgyetang for Korean ginseng chicken soup, Ichon-dong Kalguksu for Korean knife-cut noodles, or Ichon-dong Dakhanmari for Korean braised chicken.
Interesting History: Ichon-dong is home to many historic sites, including the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art and the National Museum of Korea.
Parks: Ichon Hangang Park is a popular spot for families, offering walking paths, bike rentals, and stunning views of the Han River.
Songdo
Songdo is a modern and eco-friendly smart city known for its innovative design, green spaces, and excellent schools. Families can enjoy various activities, such as visiting the Songdo Central Park or exploring the numerous cafes and restaurants. There are also plenty of sports fields and playgrounds in the area.
Location: Incheon, west of Seoul
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 2 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 2.8 million KRW. Average purchase price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 700 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 1 billion KRW.
International Schools: Chadwick International School (Pre-K to Grade 12, American curriculum), Songdo Global School (K to Grade 12, bilingual curriculum)
Where to Eat: Try Songdo Burger for American dishes, Songdo Pizza for Italian cuisine, or Songdo Sushi for Japanese food.
Interesting History: Songdo was built on reclaimed land and is designed to be a sustainable and eco-friendly city.
Parks: Songdo Central Park is a popular spot for families, offering walking paths, a lake, and a water taxi service.
Daechi-dong
Daechi-dong is an affluent neighborhood known for its excellent schools, high-end dining, and luxury boutiques. Families can enjoy various activities, such as visiting the Samsung d'Light exhibition or exploring the numerous cafes and restaurants. There are also plenty of sports fields and playgrounds in the area.
Location: Gangnam-gu, southeastern Seoul
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 3.2 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 4.2 million KRW. Average purchase price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 1.3 billion KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 1.8 billion KRW.
International Schools: Dulwich College Seoul (Pre-K to Grade 12, British curriculum), Seoul Foreign British School (Pre-K to Grade 12, British curriculum)
Where to Eat: Try The Bakery by Barry Callebaut for pastries, The Beastro for American dishes, or Sushi Matsumoto for Japanese cuisine.
Interesting History: Daechi-dong is home to many of Korea's wealthiest families and is known for its luxurious lifestyle.
Parks: Daechi Park is a popular spot for families, offering walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground for children.
Seorae Village
Seorae Village is a charming neighborhood known for its French-inspired architecture, cafes, and restaurants. Families can enjoy various activities, such as exploring the Montmartre Park or visiting the Seorae Global Village Center. There are also plenty of playgrounds and sports fields in the area.
Location: Seocho-gu, southern Seoul
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 2.5 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 3.5 million KRW. Average purchase price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 900 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 1.3 billion KRW.
International Schools: Lycee Francais de Seoul (Pre-K to Grade 12, French curriculum), Seoul German School (K to Grade 12, German curriculum)
Where to Eat: Try Paris Baguette for French pastries, Le Saint-Ex for French cuisine, or La Marmite for French-Korean fusion.
Interesting History: Seorae Village was developed in the 1980s to accommodate French expats working in Korea and is known for its French-inspired architecture.
Parks: Montmartre Park is a popular spot for families, offering a playground for children, a fountain, and a replica of the Eiffel Tower.
Pyeongchang-dong
Pyeongchang-dong is a historic neighborhood known for its traditional hanok houses, art galleries, and cafes. Families can enjoy various activities, such as exploring the historic alleys or visiting the National Folk Museum of Korea. There are also plenty of playgrounds and sports fields in the area.
Location: Jongno-gu, central Seoul
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 2 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 2.8 million KRW. Average purchase price of a 2 bedroom apartment: 700 million KRW, 3 bedroom apartment: 1 billion KRW.
International Schools: Seoul Foreign School (Pre-K to Grade 12, American curriculum), Global Christian Foreign School (K to Grade 12, American curriculum)
Where to Eat: Try Pyeongchang-dong Dakhanmari for Korean braised chicken, Pyeongchang-dong Kalguksu for Korean knife-cut noodles, or Pyeongchang-dong Samgyetang for Korean ginseng chicken soup.
Interesting History: Pyeongchang-dong is home to many historic sites, including the National Folk Museum of Korea and the Changdeokgung Palace.
Parks: Changdeokgung Palace Garden is a popular spot for families, offering a beautiful and historic setting for picnics and leisurely walks.
Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern conveniences, making them excellent choices for expat and digital nomad families living in Seoul.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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