Known for its lively atmosphere, trendy cafes and nightlife, Hongdae is often seen as the ultimate destination for young adults. But did you know it’s also a fantastic place for families? Whether your little one loves magical adventures, cute animals or hands-on activities, Hongdae has something to offer. Check out these top seven family-friendly spots where you can create lasting memories with your kids!

943 King’s Cross Cafe

If your child is a fan of Harry Potter, don’t miss the chance to explore the magical world at this Harry Potter-themed café! Step inside and you’ll feel like a witch or wizard who’s been transported to Hogwarts. The entire 4-story building has many photo zones inspired by movie and book scenes. On the fourth floor in the Hogwarts dormitory, you can even wear Hogwarts student uniforms for fun, memorable photos! Don’t forget to enjoy magical desserts inspired by the Harry Potter universe like Wizard Chocolate, Mandrake Cake and Dragon Leg (Turkey) plate.

• Address: 24 Yanghwa-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul / near Exit 9 of Hongik University Station, Naver Map

• Hours: 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. (Mon.-Thu.) / 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. (Fri.-Sun.)

Coconut Box

Coconut Box brings a tropical Southeast Asian paradise right to the heart of Seoul. It’s a favorite spot for families, couples and friends looking to experience a Bali resort vibe without leaving the city. The café features a large ball pit and fun displays that will keep kids entertained while parents can relax. For a more exclusive experience, you can enjoy a private bungalow space when ordering drinks and desserts worth over 30,000 won. Coconut Box also serves a variety of tempting pastries, desserts and beverages, all beautifully crafted by skilled pâtissiers and baristas. The café used to charge an entrance fee but now entry is free.

• Address: B2F, 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul / near Exit 9 of Hongik University Station, Naver Map

• Hours: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m., daily.

Trick Eye Museum

Next door to Coconut Box, the Trick Eye Museum in Hongdae is perfect for capturing creative family photos! Kids will be thrilled to step into imaginative trick-art scenes, including a dragon battle and an escape from an erupting volcano. Each display offers a unique photo opportunity, and even if your child isn’t usually into posing, the interactive art will get them excited to jump in and capture fun shots! Every exhibit comes with tips and example photos to help you get the best shot, so make sure to take your time and get creative with your poses to fully enjoy the experience!

• Address: B2F, 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul / near Exit 9 of Hongik University Station, Naver Map

• Hours: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m., daily.

• Tickets: Adults 12,000 won / Children & Teens 10,000 won

Kakao Friends Shop

Kakao Friends Shop is an adorable store dedicated to Korean mobile app Kakao’ beloved characters. It’s a great spot for families to pick up some great merchandise for gifts or souvenirs. Whether you love Ryan (the lion bear), Apeach (the butt peach), or Muzi (the pickled radish bunny), this large store carries a variety of character-themed toys, stationery, accessories and other cute items for a perfect piece of Korea to take home!

• Address: 162 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul / near Exit 8 of Hongik University Station, Naver Map

• Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 10 p.m., daily.

Table A

Table A is a licensed indoor zoo and animal cafe in Hongdae where you can meet an array of cute, exotic animals! Spanning from B1 to the 5th floor, the entire building has different sections where you can interact and touch animals under the supervision of a trainer. Many animals roam freely around the café, so you’ll definitely get to meet some of the furry or scaly residents like raccoons, chinchillas, meerkats, alpacas, Fennec foxes and snakes. Visitors with a Table A ticket may also visit the cat café next door. With so much to see and enjoy, this spot is enjoyable for all ages, making it a fun family destination.

• Address: 146 Wausan-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul / near Exit 6 of Hongik University Station, Naver Map

• Hours: 12 p.m. – 10 p.m., daily.

• Tickets: 18,000 won (entry to both Table A and cat cafe)

Sanrio Lovers Club

Sanrio Lovers Club, known as the Hello Kitty Café, invites visitors into a world of cuteness surrounded by the characters everyone knows and loves! Sanrio is a Japanese character design company, famous for Hello Kitty and this café has become a favorite spot for parents with young daughters. It features a Sanrio goods shop and café spanning two floors filled with cute and fun photo zones. You can enjoy adorable Hello Kitty and Sanrio character-themed cakes, cookies and drinks in the café’s lovely pink interior.

Reservations through Naver ID are required for entry. There is no entry fee, so making a reservation is free and cancellations are allowed if needed. It’s recommended to book at least a day in advance to secure your seat.

• Address: 18 Wausan-ro 19-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul / near Exit 1 of Sangsu Station (Line 6), Naver Map

• Hours: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. daily.

• Reservation

Smurf Magic Forest 

This Smurf-themed playground brings the world of the blue little guys to life. Dive into playful adventures while playing a 70-minute board game in an exciting escape room setting. The experience is available in English, and reservations are required through their website. Smurf Magic Forest also features a Smurf-themed gift shop packed with fun memorabilia as well as photo zones where you can snap pictures with your favorite Smurfs.

• Address: 2F, 151-1 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul / near Exit 7 of Hongik University Station, Naver Map

• Hours: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Mon.-Thu.) / 12 p.m. – 10 p.m. (Fri.) / 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. (Sat.-Sun.)

• Tickets: Adults 24,000 won / Teens 19,000 won / Children 14,000 won

• Reservation

USAG Yongsan

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