Picnic at Han River with Kids: How to Order Delivery Food Without a Korean App

 If you ask any Seoulite about their favorite weekend activity, nine out of ten will say, "Chimaek (Chicken and Beer) at the Han River." For families, it’s even better. The wide-open grassy areas are perfect for kids to run around, fly kites, or ride bikes.

But for foreign travelers, the biggest mystery is: "How do I get food delivered to a park without a Korean phone number or app?" As a dad who has enjoyed countless sunset picnics with my son Woobin, I’m here to share the "hacks" that will make you look like a pro.

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1. Which Park Should You Choose?

The Han River is huge, but two parks are most popular for families:

• Yeouido Hangang Park: Very lively, great for people-watching, and has a shallow "Water Light Square" where kids can splash around.

• Banpo Hangang Park: Famous for the Rainbow Fountain on the bridge at night. It’s slightly more organized and has great "Delivery Zones."

2. The Delivery Secret: "Delivery Zones" (Baedal Zon)

You can't just ask the rider to find your tent in the middle of a massive park. You must go to a designated "Delivery Zone" (배달존) to pick up your food.

• How to find them: Look for large signs that say "Delivery Zone 1" or "Delivery Zone 2."

• The Struggle: Most delivery apps (Baemin, Coupang Eats) require a Korean ID or phone number.

• The Solution for Tourists: 1. Use "Shuttle Delivery": It’s an English-friendly app that accepts foreign credit cards. 2. The "Helpful Local" Method: Don't be shy! Most Koreans are very tech-savvy. You can ask a younger local nearby: "Excuse me, could you help me order chicken? I can pay you in cash!" I’ve seen many travelers do this, and most people are happy to help a family with a kid.

3. What to Order? (Kid-Friendly Menu)

• Banban Chicken: Half "Fried" (not spicy) and half "Yangnyeom" (sweet & spicy). Kids love the crispy fried chicken!

• Yeopgi Tteokbokki (Mild): If your kids can handle a tiny bit of spice, or just get some Gimbap from a nearby convenience store.

• Han River Ramen: This is a MUST. Go to any convenience store in the park, buy a "foil-pan ramen," and use the automatic cooking machines. It takes 3 minutes and tastes better than any 5-star meal.

4. Renting Picnic Gear

You don't need to carry a tent or mat. Near the entrances of Yeouido or Banpo parks, there are dozens of rental shops.

• The "Full Set": For about 20,000 - 30,000 KRW, you can rent a tent, a soft mat, a small table, and even a Bluetooth speaker for 4 hours.

• Dad’s Tip: Check the park regulations. Usually, tents must have at least two sides open and must be taken down by 7:00 PM (times vary by season).

5. Survival Tips for Parents

• Bring Wet Wipes: Sticky chicken fingers and grass are a messy combo.

• Trash Etiquette: Korea is very strict about recycling. Look for the designated trash areas near the delivery zones and separate your plastics from food waste.

• The Fountain Show: If you're at Banpo, the fountain show starts around 7:30 PM (seasonal). It's a magical end to the day for kids.

(Conclusion) A Han River picnic is the ultimate "slow travel" experience in Seoul. It’s where you see the real daily life of Korean families. Don't let the delivery apps intimidate you—worst-case scenario, the convenience stores have plenty of great food!

Have you ever tried "Street Food" or "Park Delivery" in another country? What was the experience like? Tell me in the comments!