BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA 23 October 2025 — From October 15 to 19, 2025, the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) successfully hosted the “Family Fun in Korea” Autumn Familiarization Tour, spotlighting Busan’s vibrant and family-friendly tourism offerings. Led by Honorary Ambassador for Korea Family Tourism in the Philippines, Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, the tour brought together her family for a dynamic itinerary designed to inspire Filipino families to explore Korea’s coastal charm.
The tour kicked off with a cultural immersion in Gyeongju, a city currently preparing to host the prestigious APEC 2025 Summit Meetings. This brief stop underscored Korea’s blend of historical significance and modern global engagement.
A Night Visit to Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, Gyeongju
Visiting the Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex in Gyeongju
Melai Cantiveros-Francisco and her family at Cheomseongdae Observatory, Gyeongju
The group then journeyed to Busan, where they experienced a curated selection of attractions tailored for families:
Haeundae Blueline Park: Sky Capsule and Beach Train rides offered scenic views along the coast, delighting both children and adults.
Melai’s Family experienced riding both the Sky Capsule and the Beach Train
Busan National Science Museum: An interactive educational stop perfect for curious young minds.
Mela Francisco and Stela Francisco enjoyed exploring interactive activities at the Busan National Science Museum
Skyline Luge & Lotte World Adventure Busan: Thrilling rides and theme park fun brought excitement to all ages.
MelaSon Family enjoys the Skyrides going up to the starting point of the Luge
MelaSon Family prepares to experience the Skyline Luge ride
Melai and her family at Lotte World Adventure Busan
BIFF Square & Lotte Premium Outlets: Shopping and dining experiences blended leisure with local flavor.
Melai and her family at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) Square
Melai and her family enjoy a private night yacht tour
Gamcheon Culture Village & ARTE Museum Busan: Busan’s interactive art scene shines through the vibrant murals of Gamcheon Culture Village and the immersive digital exhibits at ARTE Museum Busan.
MelaSon Family at the Gamcheon Culture Village
Melai and her family are ready to experience the ARTE Museum Busan
Busan X the SKY: Busan’s tallest observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views of Haeundae Beach and the city skyline, making it a must-visit for families.
Melai and her family at Busan’s tallest observatory – Busan X the Sky
Samjin Fish Cake Making Experience: A hands-on culinary experience where families learned to make traditional Korean fish cakes.
Melai and her family are ready to make Korean traditional fish cake at Samjin
Melai and her family’s private lesson on fish cake making
To make the most of Busan’s attractions, travelers are encouraged to avail the Visit Busan Pass, which unlocks free entry and exclusive discounts to over 30 popular destinations and experiences across the city. From cultural landmarks to thrilling activities, the pass offers convenience and savings for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. Learn more and plan your itinerary at https://visitbusanpass.com/.
This initiative was made possible through the support and collaboration of the Busan Tourism Organization, which continues to champion Busan as a premier destination for family-friendly travel.
The tour emphasized Korea’s commitment to inclusive, family-oriented travel experiences, with Busan emerging as a top destination for multi-generational tourism. KTO remains dedicated to promoting Korea as a welcoming and enriching destination for Filipino travelers.
Last May 2024, Melai Cantiveros-Francisco was appointed by KTO as an Honorary Ambassador for promoting Korea Family Tourism in the Philippines. As the honorary ambassador for family tourism, Melai is the celebrity representative for the Korea Tourism Organization’s family tourism promotional programs in the Philippines. Part of her duties as an ambassador is visiting Korea with her family and sharing her experiences with Filipinos.
