Visiting a science museum is so much more than just an educational outing, it’s an exciting adventure for the whole family to explore the wonders of science together! For parents, it’s a perfect chance to cultivate their children’s curiosity and spark an interest in science, which is key to understanding the world around us and the technologies shaping our lives.

Unlike a traditional classroom setting, science museums offer dynamic experiences with interactive exhibits, virtual reality adventures, and hands-on workshops that truly bring science to life. Korea is home to many exceptional science museums that are not just educational but also family-friendly and at low cost, making them an ideal destination for a family day out.

Here are six fantastic science museums in Korea that you and your kids won’t want to miss!

Important note: Many science museums require reservations for popular interactive exhibits and programs because of limited seating. It’s usually fine to join the waiting list on-site on the day of your visit. However, during weekends or holidays, it is highly recommended to make a reservation through the museum’s website. Reservations usually require a Naver ID or Korean phone number verification. If you don’t have either, you might need assistance from a Korean.

1. NATIONAL SCIENCE MUSEUM (국립중앙과학관)

Located in “Science City” Daejeon, the National Science Museum sits right next to KAIST, the nation’s leading science and technology university. As the largest science museum in Korea, it features an expansive campus with various buildings, including Science and Technology Hall, Natural History Hall, Human Evolution Hall, Future Technology Hall, Children’s Science Hall, Astronomical Space Hall and more. With so much to explore, it’s recommended to grab a map at the entrance and plan your visit as it’s nearly impossible to see everything in one day.

Established under the theme of “Harmony of Nature, Humanity, and Science,” the museum serves as an engaging gateway to understanding science in the context of everyday life. It makes complex scientific concepts approachable and enjoyable through interactive exhibits spanning a wide range of topics such as chemistry, biology, ecology and future technologies.

For popular experience exhibits, reservations are required, or visitors can join a waiting list on the day of their visit.

• Address: 32-2 Guseong-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Naver Map

• Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Tue.–Sun.) / Closed Mondays, New Year, Seollal, and Chuseok

• Admission: 2,000 won for adults / 1,000 won for children. (Additional fees may apply for certain halls and programs)

• Website

2. GWACHEON NATIONAL SCIENCE MUSEUM (국립과천과학관)

Gwacheon National Science Museum, one of South Korea’s most prestigious science museums, is located next to Seoul Grand Park (Seoul Land). As a hub for showcasing Korea’s scientific and technological achievements, the museum is dedicated to inspiring future generations by fostering interest in science and nurturing dreams of becoming a scientist.

The permanent exhibits include Science Exploration Hall, Natural History Hall, Korean Science Civilization Hall, Advanced Technology Hall, Future Imagination SF Hall and more.

The museum resembles a “science village,” featuring diverse exhibition halls, outdoor displays, Insectarium, Dinosaur Park, Astronomical Space Hall and much more. Due to its large scale, visitors are encouraged to spend the entire day.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of fun and interactive activities that will captivate both children and adults. However, many activities require reservations in advance via the website online or at the entrance kiosks on the day of your visit.

• Address: Line 4. Daegongwon (Grand Park) Station Exit 6 or 110 Sanghabeol-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Naver Map

• Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Tue.–Sun.) / Closed Mondays, New Year, Seollal, and Chuseok

• Admission: 4,000 won for adults / 2,000 won for children (Additional fees may apply for certain halls and programs)

• Website

3. NATIONAL CHILDREN’S SCIENCE CENTER (국립어린이과학관)

As Korea’s only national science museum designed specifically for children, National Children’s Science Center offers kids an exciting and educational experience that can even rival the fanciest kids’ cafés. Packed with interactive science exhibits, the museum provides children opportunities to explore basic science concepts, natural phenomena, ecosystems, space, energy, and more in an engaging way. The center features a variety of attractions, including a 4K planetarium, an observatory for watching the sun and planets, and a science playground.

To maintain the museum’s focus on children, teenagers and adults without accompanying children (elementary school-aged or younger) are not permitted to enter unless they email the museum for prior approval. The number of visitors is limited daily to ensure quality time for children, so the museum accepts visitors with reservations first. On-site visitors are allowed only if there are available spots. Therefore, prior reservations are highly recommended for all visitors, especially for group visits or during weekends and holidays.

• Address: Line 4. Hyehwa Station Exit 4 or 215 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Naver Map

• Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Tue.–Sun.) / Closed Mondays, New Year, Seollal and Chuseok

• Admission: 2,000 won for adults / 1,000 won for children (Additional fees may apply for certain halls and programs)

• Website

4. ASAN JANG YEONG-SIL SCIENCE MUSEUM (아산장영실과학관)

Named after Jang Yeong-sil, regarded as the greatest scientist of the Joseon era, the museum offers a glimpse into his inventions, such as the water clock (Jagyeokru) and the rain gauge (Cheugugi), while explaining how they contributed to the development of science during the Joseon dynasty. Children can also learn comprehensive science knowledge through interactive exhibits at the Science Playground and the Space and Aviation Exhibition Hall.

Make sure to purchase a package ticket that grants access to the Science Museum, Ecology and Insect Center and the observatory. This package offers a great opportunity to enjoy all three attractions during your visit at an affordable price.

Located just 30 minutes by car from Camp Humphreys and 45 minutes from Osan Air Base, Asan Jang Yeong-sil Science Museum is relatively small compared to other science museums introduced here. However, its proximity and unique exhibits make it a worthwhile destination. Also, it’s suited for younger children.

• Address: 222 Silleuk-ro, Asan-si, Chungcheongnam-do, Naver Map

• Hours: Tue.–Sun. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Nov.–Feb.), 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Mar.–Oct.) / Closed Mondays, New Year, Seollal, and Chuseok

• Admission: 2,500 won for adults / 1,500 won for children & package tickets: 5,000 won for adults / 3,200 won for children

• Website

5. Daegu National Science Museum (대구국립과학관)

Explore nature, evolution of life, space, technology and more at the science museum about 25 kilometers (15 miles) away from U.S. military bases in Daegu.

Daegu National Science Museum has extensive exhibition halls that can easily fill a full day of fun and education. This museum is a top pick for families in Daegu as it also boasts a top-notch children’s science museum. Given its size, allow yourself enough time when visiting.

The permanent exhibits cover various topics, including Nature and Discovery, Science, Technology and Industry, Evolution of Life, History of Science and Technology Civilization. Other attractions include Astronomical Projection Hall, 4D Theater, Mobility World Exhibit, Kid’s World Exhibit and more.

• Address: 20 Techno-daero 6-gil, Dalseong-gun, Daegu, Naver Map

• Hours: 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (Tue.–Sun.) / Closed on Mondays, New Year, Seollal, and Chuseok

• Admission: 3,000 won for adults / 2,000 won for children (Additional fees may apply for certain halls and programs)

• Website

6. Busan National Science Museum (부산국립과학관)

Located in the coastal city of Busan, Busan National Science Museum showcases exhibits that focus not only on fundamental sciences but also on maritime technologies, reflecting the city’s strong connection to the sea. It is especially beloved for its high-quality, interactive displays that allow visitors to learn science in dynamic and engaging ways. Highlights include VR rides and simulations for space travel and a motorboat.

Families with young children are strongly encouraged to visit Space Science Playground, designed for toddlers and preschoolers, as well as Children’s Science Hall, where kids can explore basic science and future technologies through hands-on displays. Other attractions include a planetarium, Astronomical Observatory, RC/Drone Experience Center and more.

While the permanent exhibits and Children’s Science Hall are open to all visitors, some areas such as Space Science Playground (Seedling Nuri Hall), which hosts scheduled programs, require reservations for entry. Visitors can join a waiting list on the day of their visit, but it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance via their website, especially when visiting on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

• Address: 59 Dongbusangwangwang 6-ro, Gijang-gun, Busan, Naver Map

• Hours: 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (Tue.–Sun.) / Closed on Mondays, New Year, Seollal, and Chuseok

• Admission: 4,000 won for adults / 3,000 won for teens / 2,000 won for children aged 3 to 6 (Additional fees may apply for certain halls and programs)

• Website

Fleet Chinhae

USAG Daegu

USAG Yongsan

Osan Air Base

Camp Humphreys

Camp Casey

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