8 Family Friendly Hotels in South Korea

© JW Marriott

South Korea is a fabulous choice for a family holiday. Begin your journey in Seoul, the country's fascinating cosmopolitan capital, or in nearby Incheon -- home to one of the best resorts in South Korea. Continue on to intriguing cultural hotspots, such as ancient Gyeongju, or outdoorsy destinations like popular Jeju Island. Whether you're travelling with litte ones or teenagers, you can expect chic contemporary design in slick high-rises and expansive resorts, many of which have multiple restaurants and soothing spas. Fun kids clubs, swimming pools and excellent sports facilities add to the appeal at our Gurus' choice of eight family-friendly hotels in South Korea. All the more reason to visit!

For a City Break

• The Four Seasons Seoul is an exceptional luxury hotel with calming interiors honouring Korean heritage design. Little ones will love the variety of activities at the kids club, the child-friendly pool and the spacious suites. Parents can savour cocktails at the Charles H speakeasy after restorative massages. Jongno's attractions are right on your doorstep. Pets are welcome, too.
• Nest Hotel, on Incheon's Yeongjongdo Island, has a heated infinity pool with ocean views, spacious family suites and a fun kids club. A minimalist, modern hotel set right on the water, it's a great choice for a family break in the city. The chic bar and wellness centre will delight the grown-ups.
• The Grand Hyatt, a family favourite in Seoul, has swish contemporary rooms and suites — some inter-connecting — with striking city views and smart bathrooms. The facilities are the big sell, with nine dining & entertainment venues, plus indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, tennis courts and an ice rink in winter. Brilliant for guests of all ages!

For Lakeside Activities

• Hilton Gyeongju, close to Lake Bomun, has minimalist guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, big comfortable beds and verdant views. Family suites have big twin beds and sitting areas, and guests share access to three swimming pools, squash courts and six bars & eateries. Take little ones to the poolside playground and slide, or zip around the lake by bicycle as a family.
• Lahan Select Gyeongju, following the curve of Lake Bomun, is a slick high-rise with real family appeal. Interiors are simple and stylish, with modern art pieces and dark wooden furniture; bathrooms feel indulgent. Children's activities at Lahan Wonderland with delight little ones, whilst older kids will adore the bowling alley. Multiple pools promise refreshing dips, and there are two restaurants.

For a Luxury Resort

• Grand Josun Jeju, a bold contemporary resort with almost 250 elegant guest rooms and suites on Jeju's south coast, is a delight. Family suites have playfully decorated kids' rooms, whilst grown-up spaces are decorated in soothing cream and white tones. Indoor and outdoor pools will suit the whole family, there's a lively kids club, and a sensational spa. Party the night away at the onsite club once the kids have gone to bed!
• Paradise Hotel & Resort has an astonishing 1250 elegant guest rooms and suites in Incheon. Expect an outstanding collection of 3000+ art pieces, impeccable marble bathrooms, and a rejuvenating wellness centre. Families can make a beeline to the bowling alley or the buzzy kids' zone after days of fun at the payground, swimming pools and games room. The glamorous Chroma nightclub's DJ nights will thrill teens.
• JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, opened on the island in 2023. Designed by the acclaimed Bill Bensley, the canola yellow and basalt grey palette reflects Jeju's natural landscape. Family Suites have cosy nooks and play areas, whilst the resort's playground and kids club are ideal for families with young children. Older kids will appreciate the multiple swimming pools, plus opportunities for cycling, hiking and water sports on Jeju.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to consider Five Hip Hotels in Gangnam, Seoul.
• Alternatively, check out our list of the best places to stay in South Korea.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • The Four Seasons Seoul Seoul (South Korea) 317 rooms from AU$674

    
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    Spa breaks  -  Experience the zen of the ninth-floor Korean sauna, featuring separate saunas for men and women, with cold, warm, and hot baths

    Families  -  Spacious suites, a kids’ club, and a family-friendly pool, all just steps from Seoul's top attractions and activities

    City Style  -  Indulge in luxury with elegant decor, fine dining, and a prime location near Seoul’s best shopping and nightlife

    Views  -  Enjoy panoramic views from the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Gwanghwamun neighbourhood — historic palaces & modern skyscrapers

    

    A luxurious hotel with impeccable service, striking zen design that honours Korean heritage, and a prime location perfect for exploring the vibrant city of Seoul. An excellent choice for discerning travellers seeking an unforgettable stay in Korea See More

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  • Nest Hotel Incheon (South Korea) 370 rooms from AU$233

    
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    Restaurant  -  Savour gourmet cuisine at the hotel's signature restaurant, where seasonal ingredients create an exquisite dining experience

    Total relaxation  -  Indulge in a rejuvenating experience at the hotel's sauna, designed to offer ultimate relaxation and wellness for guests

    Short break  -  This stylish hotel is just 10 minutes from Incheon Airport, offering convenience and comfort with stunning sea views

    Families  -  The hotel features a heated outdoor pool, a kids club, and spacious rooms with unique designs to suit all ages

    

    Recommended by  -  Design Hotels

    This hotel offers breathtaking views and easy airport access on the on Yeongjongdo Island near Seoul. The decor is a sleek blend of modern minimalism and natural elements, creating a stylish industrial vibe. Facilities include a fantastic restaurant, a chic bar, and a serene wellness spa. Very chic. See More

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  • Grand Hyatt Seoul Seoul 616 rooms from AU$455

    
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    Active Holiday  -  An active guest's dream with a 24 hour state-of-the-art fitness centre, personal training, tennis, jogging trails, and ice rink

    Great walks  -  Immerse yourself in tranquillity with a serene stroll through the beautiful Namsan Park, located just steps from the hotel

    Romantic Break  -  With its luxurious spa, gourmet dining, and exclusive couples' packages, this hotel is perfect for a romantic escape

    Close to nightlife  -  Discover the vibrant nightlife at Itaewon, a bustling neighbourhood known for its eclectic mix of bars and clubs

    

    A contemporary classic perched above the city. The rooms feature full-length windows boasting fantastic views, and the interiors are plush and well thought out. With nine dining and entertainment venues, a fitness complex, indoor and outdoor pools, and a spa, it has everything for a luxurious stay. See More

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  • Hilton Gyeongju Gyeongju (South Korea) 330 rooms from AU$229

    
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    Learning  -  Guided tours of historic Gyeongju — known as ‘the museum without walls’ — are fabulous, with temples, tombs, pagodas & statues

    Country Escape  -  A laid-back luxury hotel surrounded by mountains and yet 20 minutes from the many wonders of historic Gyeongju

    Cycling  -  Borrow the hotel's bicycles to zip along verdant paths and to follow the scenic lakeside trail

    Families  -  A family-friendly lakeside escape with three pools, generous suites, bicycles & squash courts

    

    A contemporary lakeside hotel near charming Gyeongju, promising a brilliant balance of laid-back luxury. Minimalist guest rooms with crisp white linens and polished wood face mountain views. Six dining options, three swimming pools, squash courts and bicycles add to the family-friendly appeal. See More

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  • Lahan Select Gyeongju Gyeongju (South Korea) 115 rooms from AU$359

    
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    Families  -  Families will adore the spacious suites, plus indoor & outdoor pools, relaxed buffet, bowling alley & kids' lounge

    City Style  -  A smart city hotel with views over restful Bomun Lake, stylish interiors and a focus on photography exhibitions

    Kids Club  -  Lahan Wonderland is a dedicated children's lounge, with games and activities for little ones

    Great walks  -  Hike up Namsan Mountain for marvellous views and the chance to interact with ancient relics

    

    A stylish high-rise hotel overlooking Lake Bomun on the edge of historic Gyeongju. Slick, smart interiors feature dark wood, white linens & modern art, as well as lake views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Expect two restaurants, a photography gallery, kids' activities & multiple pools, too. See More

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  • Grand Josun Jeju Jeju Island (South Korea) 248 rooms from AU$372

    
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    Business meetings  -  A sophisticated business hotel with private events facilities, multiple dining options & swish interiors

    Families  -  Families will adore the fun kids' rooms, the kids' club activities & the multiple swimming pools

    Hotel Entertainment  -  Live DJ nights at Peak — alongside the rooftop swimming pool — will delight keen partygoers

    Restaurant  -  Enjoy Italian casual dining at Rubica, relaxed buffet fare at ARIA and fresh baked goods at the Josun Deli

    

    Big & beautifully appointed, this elegant contemporary resort boasts chic bars & eateries, as well as a soothing spa, indoor & outdoor swimming pools, plus a lively nightclub. Expect swish, understated interiors with floor-to-ceiling windows & soaking tubs. Family-friendly indulgence on Jeju Island. See More

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  • Paradise Hotel & Resort Incheon (South Korea) 1250 rooms from AU$611

    
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    City Style  -  An exceptional resort in Incheon, this is an arts destination as well as a food and party hotspot — with sleek design to boot

    Hotel Entertainment  -  Chroma hosts regular DJ nights, events are held in the Paradise Art Space & the Wonderbox indoor amusement park is great fun!

    Families  -  A fantastic family-friendly resort, with generous suites, plus a games room, kids' zone, multiple pools & playground

    Close to nightlife  -  Late-night partygoers will adore the Paradise City complex's glamorous nightclub — Chroma — and the casino

    

    A jaw-dropping resort boasting its own glamorous nightclub & a curated art collection of 3000+ pieces. Exceptional guest rooms & suites are clad in soft white & cream, with marble bathrooms & modern art. A plethora of restaurants, plus wellness centre, bowling alley & kids' zone await. Big & bold. See More

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  • JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa Jeju Island (Seogwipo) 197 rooms from AU$1052

    
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    Spa breaks  -  A beautiful resort for rest & relaxation, with a sumptuous spa, indoor pool & sensational massages, as well as yoga

    Families  -  Families will adore the generous suites, the kids' clubs, multiple swimming pools and outdoor playground

    Designer  -  Famed designer Bill Bensley took inspiration from the yellow canola fields and volcanic basalt of the island in his interiors

    Great walks  -  Hiking trails through the Hallasan National Park are fantastic, with mesmerising views of the island and the sea

    

    Opened in 2023, this spectacular resort hugs the cliffs of Jeju Island, promising five-star style in sight of the East China Sea. Bill Bensley's elegant palette of canola yellow & basalt grey reflects the island's natural landscape. Expect rejuvenating luxury, with a superb spa & gourmet fare. See More

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Written by Saskia Walker

posted Wednesday, 16th October 2024