Moving to Seoul with kids can feel overwhelming, especially when you need to think not just about where to live, but where your child will go to school.
As a parent myself, I know how much your choice of neighborhood affects not only your child’s school life, but also your own daily routine.
Here are five areas in Seoul that I would personally recommend for foreign families with elementary school-aged children.
1. Hannam-dong (Yongsan-gu)
Hannam-dong is one of the most popular areas for diplomatic and expat families in Seoul. It’s home to several international schools, including Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS), and close to the Hannam UN Village where many foreign diplomats and executives reside.
The streets are quieter than Itaewon next door, and the neighborhood feels green, safe, and very walkable. While apartments here are on the higher end, many families find it worth it for the strong expat community and English-speaking support.
Schools nearby: YISS, German School of Seoul, Chadwick International Bus Service Point
Best for: diplomatic families, long-term foreign residents
Subway access: Hangangjin Station (Line 6)
2. Seorae Village (Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu)
Seorae Village is known as the French district of Seoul, and it has a long-established foreign community. The Lycée Français de Séoul (LFS) attracts many francophone families, but even for non-French speakers, the area is appealing.
There are wide sidewalks, family-friendly parks, and a slower pace of life compared to central Seoul. Several reputable Korean elementary schools in Seocho-gu also have experience supporting multicultural students.
Schools nearby: Lycée Français de Séoul, Banpo Elementary, Seoul International School shuttle stops
Best for: families seeking a calm, residential environment with international support
Subway access: Express Bus Terminal (Lines 3, 7, 9)
3. Ichon-dong (Yongsan-gu)
Ichon-dong is home to many Japanese and international families due to its proximity to the Japanese School of Seoul. The area is clean, organized, and located along the Han River with great walking paths and playgrounds.
While it’s quieter than Hannam or Itaewon, Ichon-dong offers easy access to both Korean and international resources, and the local schools are familiar with multicultural families.
Schools nearby: Japanese School of Seoul, local Korean public schools
Best for: families looking for a peaceful environment with river access
Subway access: Ichon Station (Lines 4, Gyeongui–Jungang)
4. Jamsil (Songpa-gu)
For those living in eastern Seoul, Jamsil is a modern, clean, and family-friendly area with excellent infrastructure. It’s known for good Korean public schools, and several international school buses operate in the area.
Apartment complexes here often include playgrounds, daycare centers, and are close to parks like Seokchon Lake and the Olympic Park. I’ve visited families here who say their kids easily made friends and adapted quickly.
Schools nearby: Local Korean public schools, Korea International School (bus route), Chadwick (bus route)
Best for: long-term families who want stability and convenience
Subway access: Jamsil Station (Lines 2, 8)
5. Daechi-dong & Apgujeong (Gangnam-gu)
While Gangnam is often associated with high-rises and shopping, Daechi-dong is actually one of Seoul’s top education hubs. Many Korean parents move here specifically for school access, and some international schools offer shuttle stops nearby.
That said, competition can be intense, and the lifestyle is more fast-paced. If you’re looking for a more academically focused environment and don’t mind a bit of hustle, this area may suit you.
Schools nearby: Korea International School (shuttle), Daechi Elementary, private afterschool academies
Best for: education-focused families, dual-working parents
Subway access: Daechi Station, Apgujeong Station (Line 3)
As a parent, I’ve learned that choosing the right neighborhood in Seoul is really about your child’s needs and your own lifestyle.
If you want English-speaking services and international school access, Hannam and Seorae are ideal. If you’re comfortable with Korean schools and want good public facilities, areas like Jamsil or Ichon may be a better fit.
Wherever you decide, visit the neighborhood in person, talk to other parents, and don’t be afraid to ask the school for help — many are more supportive of foreign families than you might expect.