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By Kate Nelson
A real appreciation of Science and Technology exists in the ROK. Take a trip to a museum that your young ones will remember…somewhere they can play and learn simultaneously. Take them to a Children’s Science Museum! Interactive exhibits, the latest technology, and learning about science are all within your grasp. The price for the family is quite affordable!
Gwacheon National Science Museum
How about walking with the dinosaurs and elephants? It is possible in the natural history section of the museum! Then take a tour to the science fiction section, pose with a superhero, blast away in a space game, and create an avatar to bring to life on a room-sized screen. In the traditional and high-tech science sections, explore aviation and land a plane, race your friend on a high-speed bike ride, and try science experiments in rooms full of exhibits. Don’t forget to visit the planetarium and catch a show expressed in English subtitles.
Many exhibits are in English or can be accessed in English with the exhibit’s QR code, but please bring your translator app. This museum has a great indoor kids’ playland that you sign up for by the hour and an unrivaled outdoor playground, which will reopen after the heat of summer. Also offered are a mother’s nursing room and a separate infant room. The cost is only ₩4,000 for adults and can be paid at the entrance, no reservations are needed. A food court on the 2nd floor can satisfy the sweet tooth or provide a hearty lunch.
Interest Group: All ages will appreciate this museum.
Directions: Take the metro to Seoul Grand Park (on the blue line), then use Exit 6.
National Children’s Science Center
If your little ones can’t get enough of science, another hidden gem for the younger crowd can be found here. Scouting for something unusual for the family? How about taking a jaunty morning trip through a science center, followed by a plethora of lunch options at a myriad of international restaurants? Please check it out.
We studied the native birds in South Korea, learned about national conservation efforts, and explored the principles of science through the amazing sensory lab. Afterward, we took in a 4D movie that lasted 20 minutes and had plenty of action to keep the littles entertained.
For booking, just choose a time a few days before and schedule on the Internet. Bring your translator app. Many of the exhibits are not in English but pictures guide the kids through the activities. The 3-floor center includes an observatory and a 4D theater that can also be booked online prior to your arrival.
Interest Group: Up to age 10 but tweens might enjoy the activities with the family.
Directions: Hyehwa Station in Seoul (on line 4). Exit 4. Take a left and walk down the avenue with the brightly colored lights strung overhead. At the end of the avenue, you will see the science center diagonally from your location.
Website: https://www.csc.go.kr/index.do
About the Author
Kate enjoys experiencing new cultures and worldviews while sharing the love of God. As a military spouse, she encourages her children to bloom where planted and enjoy the ‘now’ moment in their lives. She is a graduate of Eastern Mennonite and Liberty University.