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| Honorary Ambassador for Korea Family Tourism in the Philippines Melai Cantiveros-Francisco with husband Jason and daughters Mela and Stela at Gamcheon Cultural Village (Image Source: Starmometer/Korea Tourism Organization) |
The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) successfully hosted the “Family Fun in Korea” Autumn Familiarization Tour last October 15-19, 2025, 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. 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.
• Busan National Science Museum: An interactive educational stop perfect for curious young minds.
• Skyline Luge & Lotte World Adventure Busan: Thrilling rides and theme park fun brought excitement to all ages.
• BIFF Square & Lotte Premium Outlets: Shopping and dining experiences blended leisure with local flavor.
• Gamcheon Cultural Village & ARTE Museum Busan: Busan’s interactive art scene shines through the vibrant murals of Gamcheon Cultural Village and the immersive digital exhibits at 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.
• Samjin Fish Cake Making Experience: A hands-on culinary experience where families learned to make traditional Korean fish cakes.
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.
