- Home›
- South Korea›
- Seoul
Seoul Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Discover Things to Do and Plan a Trip to Seoul, South Korea with a Local Guide
Popular Seoul Tour Guides
David a. M.
I have been a Professor of Korean Cultural Tourism in Seoul, and a Tour-guide, Lecturer and Author on Traditional Cultural Sites, especially religious ones, on the high-end, for 25 years. Wrote the 1996-7 edition of Lonely Planet's KOREA guidebook!
Paul K.
Hello everyone, I am Paul, a tour guide in Seoul. Seoul is a fascinating destination that seamlessly blends the old with the new. I'm excited to show you some of the best things to make your trip fun and excited, through my deep knowledge about culture and history of Korea and exuberant experiences as tour guide. My primary tourist destination is Seoul and metropolitan area, consisting of 5 palaces, Royal Ancestral Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village, National museum of Korea, War Memorial of Korea and other museums & galleries and contemporary architectures, and Namsan Mt. with N-Seoul Tower, traditional & trendy market places such as Gwangjang market & Hondae street, and also Korean Folk Village & DMZ tour. Center of culture and tour is architecture. Architectural style represents spirit of times. We can see as much as we know about spirit of times. For example, without knowledge about Christianity, the spirit of medieval Europe, we cannot fully appreciate beauty and value of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Confucianism was the spirit of Joseon Dynasty. Gyeongbokgung represents Confucianism. Confucianism culture of Joseon Dynasty is unique characteristic of Korean culture, compared to Chinese, Japanese and European culture. Hence, my tourist information is based on Confucianism. Thank you for your interest! As your guide, I hope to see you soon in Seoul.
Thomas K.
I am Thomas, a licensed tour guide in Seoul, Korea since 2016. I am optimistic, easy-going and open-minded. Before being a tour guide, I had worked at a major company as a personnel manager for almost 30 years. I learned how to get along with people through my job experience. Now, as a tour guide, If you let me know what you are interested in, for example, places to visit, activities to do, and food to eat. I will do my best to make everything you imagine come true. I offer the best services; High Quality and Customized tours, Free transportation service and Free photo service. I also guarantee a comfortable, pleasant, safe and memorable tour. Enjoy the moment at your own pace and time in Korea, I will capture it as a photo. Thank you
Alice K.
Hello! I am Alice. I live in Incheon, South Korea. It's very close to Seoul. I want to guide my clients through the charming city of Seoul. Especially when introducing the five grand palaces of Seoul, I would like to invite a professional photographer to capture beautiful moments. I can help them dress in hanbok and create stunning life shots. I also want to guide them through Kyeongju, a city that breathes with a long history. I lived in Kyeongju until my teenage years. I want to introduce UNESCO-listed Kyeongju, a city of culture and history. I have traveled to Jeju Island more than several ten times. I also want to introduce Jeju Island. My clients can go anywhere they want in South Korea. There are many well-preserved cultural heritage sites with a long history in Korea, and they can also experience the convenience of fast-developing Seoul. Come and visit Korea. Let's explore Seoul and travel together anywhere. Traveling in Korea will be a memorable and cherished experience. Best regards. Alice.
New Seoul Tour Guides
Ari K.
Hello! I am Ari, a freelance guide based in South Korea with a rich and diverse background in English guiding, interpretation, and medical coordination over the past decade. I'm delighted to welcome you to Korea. Having spent my entire life in Korea, I've been a licensed guide since 2014, accumulating a decade of experience in showcasing the wonders of my homeland. My academic journey led me to major in English Literature, and armed with a TESOL certification, I also ventured into the realm of English teaching. However, it was a transformative trip to Europe that ignited a new dream within me. I found joy in sharing the stories, memories, and unique charm of Korea with people from around the world. Over the years, my role expanded beyond guiding to handling diplomatic protocols for distinguished guests, including ministers, vice ministers, members of parliament, kings, and queens. If you're seeking an authentic tour that unveils the true essence of Korea, I invite you to reach out. I'm eager to promptly respond and create memorable experiences together. Feel free to drop me a message – let's embark on a journey to discover the genuine beauty of Korea!
Kevin H.
Hi [An Yeong Ha Se Yo?(안녕하세요?)] every body, My name is Kevin H. from Seoul. I myself like travel abroad too. I like to exchange cultures also, because experiencing different cultures can give us great chance to make a progress in many ways. In this regards, I would like to help tourist as professional private guide. My experience taught me the tours had been interesting or so-so according to a guide when I traveled abroad. So I am always doing my best to help tourists and entertain them. I think the person you are looking for, because I am well trained and educated. I am interested in history, agriculture, science, travel and communication and arts. These interests will make our tour more informative and enjoyable. I have 10 years(long ago) + 10 years(recently) experience in private tour. And I have been delivering more than 1000 tour for mainly family. Those are covering culture, DMZ, nature, especially Seoul Highlights for first visitors. As results I have excellent reviews in the tourism industry. Furthermore, I have a long and experience with telecom company as employee. This will make our tour more memorable. I am graduated from Gyonggi University with BA in Tourism Management. So I understand tourism industry very well and provide you a great guiding serice and tour service. My Service is as follows: S: Smile (happy together) S: Speed (timely) S: Sincerity (from the bottom of my heart) Best Regards Kevin Hwang Dream.
Daniel Y.
Specialized in 1) History travel, 2) Research Travel and 3) Business travel, I have long experience and correct contact points in Korea, Japan and China.
Hans K.
Hello Everyone, My name is Hans, I've been living in Seoul Korea over 40 years and working as an officially certified English speaking tour & trekking guide since 2015. I have various experiences in city tours including history, culture, religion, foods and so on, and I met lots of tourists with Private and Group from the world, and understand of what they want to see and do. As a result, I can bring tourist to those major tourist spots and believe you will be satisfied with my tours, and back to home with forgettable memories after the time with me. My tour coverages are Seoul City tour with DMZ, Unesco world heritages, National park trekking, country side cycling tour, and nationwide multiple days tour with my van. Just let me know of what to do, what to see, what to eat and so on, then I will create a best itineraries for you. thanks.
Popular Seoul Private Tours
Seoul City Tour + Free photo shooting Service
Seoul has been the capital city of Korea since 1392. If you are a traveler who is visiting Seoul for the first time, this one-day tour will make you fall in love with the charm of Seoul, where the new and old are exquisitely harmonized. You enjoy every moment in Seoul, I will capture your moments in photos. [If you request. the itinerary can be changed.] * This itinerary is subject to change at the request of the client.
Seoul Local Life and History
WELCOME TO SEOUL. At the forefront of fashion and technology but deeply traditional, Seoul brings together palaces, temples, avant-garde design, and mountain trails. On our tour, we will discover a fascinating mix of old and new, traditional culture with contemporary attractions.
Gyeongbokgung,Bukchon,Gwangjang,N-SeoulTower,Hongdae
Tour to explore essence & highlight of traditional Korean culture from best palace, folk culture, traditional house village, traditional food, panoramic view of Seoul, young & vibrant modern culture. Tour feature Gyeongbokgung palace - the most beautiful place and best architecture, Bukchon Hanok Village, Gwangjang market, N Seoul Tower, Hongdae street. Guide share cultural information that help guest fully appreciate the authentic beauty and value of traditional Korean culture and architecture.
(5hrs) Seoul highlights with a palace - Gyeongbokgung & Food market
Explore the best of Seoul and taste its food! Start from Jogyesa Temple in the Insadong, the head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. Continue to Gwanghwamun Square to meet the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main palace in the Joseon Dynasty. Continue to Bukchon Hanok Village. Take the subway to Gwangjang market and taste the local food. :-)
New Seoul Private Tours
(5hr) Gangnam highlights in Southern Seoul - UNESCO heritage and posh street
Spend your day exploring the best of Southern Seoul with history and modern culture! Start with the royal tomb from the Joseon dynasty, UNESCO heritage. Also visit Bongeunsa temple which is to protect the tomb. Walk to Byulmadang library and Gangnam style statue. Move to a traditional market where you can try street food. Many plastic surgeons are in the area too. Finishes in 'Garonsu-gil' with many nice cafes and shops. Come this tour, and see how they are different than Northern Seoul! :-)
(3hr) Heart of Seoul highlights - Namsangol Hanok village and Seoul's largest market
Spend your day exploring the heart of Seoul with the beautiful city views and the largest market in Seoul. Travel back to the Joseon dynasty and stroll in Namsangol Hanok village. Traditional houses are restored here. Take a bus to Namdaemun gate (National treasure) and the largest market in Seoul If you want, enjoy the local food in the market. I'll show you some of my favorites! * This tour is NOT available on Mondays
Must-see attractions in Gangnam
Hop on the metro to Bongeunsa located in the heart of ritzy Gangnam, the shrines and halls of the Buddhist temple. Gangnam, located south of the Hangang River in Seoul, is not only a financial, economic, and educational hub, but also a city that leads trends in lifestyle, fashion, shopping, and Hallyu (K-culture). You will be aware of what's the Gangnam style by visiting Starfiled Library in Coex shopping mall, Lotte Tower with Seokchon Lake view, Songlidangil Cafe Street and so on.
Exploring the ancient side of Seoul
Hop on the metro to Gyeongbokgung Palace where you’ll experience the elegant royal culture and history of the Joseon Dynasty. After, make your way to the Blue House which was the official residence of South Korean Presidents. Then walk around the historical Bukchon Hanok (Korean traditional house) Village and find a beautiful and charming cafe or restaurant at Ikseondong alleys to quench your thirst. Lastly head to Myeongdong area for various Korean street foods and restaurants offerings.
Popular Seoul Private Cars
Full Day- Essential Seoul City & Gourmet Tour
You can enjoy both city and Gourmet Tour. We visit the most popular tour attractions like Gyeongbokgung palace, Bukchon Hanok Village and etc. This tour is the most essential tour for the first time visitor to Korea who would like to vsist the most popular attraction and taste various Korean foods with friendly local guide in a day. We use a clean comfortable minivan for hotel pick-up, drop-off and transfers between locations, so you can enjoy the tour in comfort.
Paju DMZ & Peace park tour
Paju is the nearest place where tourists can see the north Korea land crossed the border, drawn on 38th degree of north latitude right after the World War 2. After crossing the Southern Limit Line, we reach to the DMZ where is Dora Observatory and 3rd Infiltration tunnel built by north Korea. Sure you can definitely feel some scary but it is the most peaceful place in the world. Since we completed the DMZ tour run by the Paju city, then move to vicinity like Majang lake or Royal tomb.
Unesco heritage, Suwon Hwaseong fortress, and Folk village
Suwon, located in the southern part of Seoul, is a gateway to the capital city as well as a strategic location. In our history it has played an important role in a military perspective. Due to this geographical issue our ancient dynasty built the fortress, called Hwaseong fortress, and it was also a symbol of filial piety of 22nd King Jeongjo. At folk village, it is time to feel the lifestyle of Joseon dynasty under confucian society, and houses and culture like time machine travel.
Hike and Explore of Mt. Bukhansan with hike professional
Bukhansan(837m) is 15th National Park with stunning valleys, peaks and streams on area of 80km² in Seoul, and reachable by public transportation within 40 to 20 minutes from downtown Seoul. There are many historical sites including Bukhansanseong Fortress with 2,000 years of history and over 100 Buddhist temples. It is a great place for hiking and learning in terms of ecology, culture and history in all seasons. You enjoy granite peaks, ridges, streams and panoramic view during hike.
Seoul Tour Reviews
“Friendly and Knowledgeable Guide and Excellent Driver!”
We booked a custom DMZ tour with Hans. I was very specific and detailed about the sites we wanted to see, which I recommend. Hans was incredibly kind and accommodating. He picked our group up at 2 different hotels and told us about the history of sites in Seoul as he drove through the city. His English is great, of course. He is very knowledgeable about the history of the city as well as the philosophy, which was wonderful to learn about. As we drove to Paju I was very pleased (and relieved after all of the taxi rides we'd had in Seoul) that he is a fantastic driver, we felt very safe and he drove very smoothly and not too fast or jerky. The van is large and can comfortably accommodate 9 passengers, I believe. Unfortunately one of the main tours we wanted to visit was not available which was very disappointing but he was very understanding about adjusting our tour which I appreciate very much. We continued on the tour and had a nice meal and visited several other sites. He was so kind to our children and very patient with the pace of the tour and stopping for bathroom and snack breaks. It was very hot!! Overall it was a lovely tour and I would definitely recommend Hans as a tour guide. He also does hiking and biking tours, which seems very unique, especially since Korea is quite different than the US when it comes to camping accommodations.
Hans K.
(2 reviews)Thank you so much on your great review and I am happy to hear that you and your kids are enjoyed my tour, I just tried to do small things for your groups as I love all Koreans.. Thanks again.
“Awesome Experience”
Ari helped to make our trip to Seoul a memorable one! She catered to our wants and needs, and was knowledgeable about the history of the country. Her sweet and kind personality added to her already pleasant demeanor. She navigated the tour with us in mind and even took many pictures for us. I would highly recommend her to be your tour guide!! We officially have a “friend” from Korea now!:)
Ari K.
(1 reviews)Thank you sincerely for your heartfelt review, I also cherish the fond memories of tour with you and your family. Thank you so much for coming to Korea. We have truly become a friends and I will definitely reach out to you if I ever visit you place. Thank you again.
Sam H.
Layover tour: pickup at ICN airport - Seoul highlight tour - Sending off at Seoul station
“Amazing quick tour of Seoul!”
Paul is an amazing tour guide! We can't believe how much we were able to see and do on a short layout tour. Pauls knowledge of Seoul and Korean history is excellent. Can't wait to come back and spend more time in Korea. Thanks Paul.
Paul K.
(11 reviews)Greatly grateful for Sam's good review! Center of culture and tour is architecture. Architectural style represents spirit of times. We can see as much as we know about spirit of times. Confucianism was the spirit of Joseon Dynasty. Gyeongbokgung represents Confucianism. Confucianism culture of Joseon Dynasty is unique characteristic of Korean culture, compared to Chinese, Japanese and European culture. Hence, my tourist information is based on Confucianism. I am the only tour guide in Korea, who introduce Korean culture based on Confucianism, the spirit of Joseon Dynasty.
Seoul Private Tour Guide
Experience a blend of Seoul’s ancient castles and futuristic skyscrapers on a private tour with a local tour guide who knows the Special City intimately.
Ready to immerse yourself in Seoul beyond the popular K-Culture and thrilling amusement parks? Our expertly curated itineraries are designed by you and led by a local expert who understands the importance of breathtaking yet lesser known sites like Seonjeongneung, where relics of the Joseon Dynasty lay.
Go beyond the usual tours to touch the soul of South Korea’s Special City, from sunset views at Gyeongui Line Forest Park to food stall hopping on a night market tour of Namdaemun. Keep your itinerary filled with your interests, and let our guides handle the rest.
Seoul Frequently Asked Questions
Can you hire a guide in Seoul?
How do I get a Seoul tour guide?
What is the best month to visit Seoul?
How much do you tip a guide in Korea?
Are there female guides in Seoul, South Korea?
Is English spoken widely in Seoul?
Latest Seoul Articles
Hiring A Guide In Seoul: The Pros & Cons
Seoul, South Korea
Whenever I’m traveling, there are two things on my mind. How will I get there, and what will I do once I land? If you’re like me, then your mind’s racing with the possibilities of what a Seoul trip could look like. If you’re also like me, you're fre...
Tourism In Seoul Statistics 2023: The Ultimate Guide
Seoul, South Korea
Exciting yet exhausting. These two words sum up most travel planning, especially when you're trying to unearth the everlasting beauty of a traditional yet modern city like Seoul. If your tabs are a twisted labyrinth of confusion, and you can’t pick bet...
7 Day Trips From Seoul
Seoul, South Korea
The megacity that is Seoul is definitely where much of the hustle and bustle is at: looming skyscrapers, delicious cuisine, and some fascinating gems hidden amongst all that concrete. You could easily spend weeks on end without getting bored. But of cours...
The best tours and activities
With a real local of your choice
The option to personalize your tour
Just contact your favorite local
Only private tours!
So no group tours with strangers
