- Home›
- 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!
Jae ha L.
Hi, I’m Jay, your local host in Seoul! This is a city that never fails to amaze me with its energy and beauty. From the breathtaking sunsets over the Hangang River to the vibrant streets buzzing with life, this city is full of charm and surprises. One of my favorite things to do is take in the stunning skyline from Namsan Tower – it’s a view that truly captures the spirit of Seoul. I have a deep appreciation for Seoul’s rich history and culture, and I love exploring its historic palaces, bustling local markets, and the newest hot spots around town. Whether we’re wandering through ancient landmarks or discovering trendy neighborhoods, I’ll share insights that connect Seoul’s past to its dynamic present. I’m here to make your visit fun, engaging, and memorable. Let’s explore the heart of Seoul together and uncover the city’s many stories!
Andy P.
Who you travel with is as important as where you go and what you see. Here I am for you! I have obtained official tour guide certificate in 2018. I appreciate a lot of good reviews and kudos directly to me or indirectly through multi-national or Korean travel agencies. Here are some extracts from the reviews. Quote; "Our tour guide Andy, in south Korea was exceptional, making the experience both educational and entertaining. His in-depth knowledge about the history and culture of the area was impressive, and he shared fascinating stories that brought the sites to life. His passion for the job was extremely good, leaving us with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for Korea." ; Unquote On this ocassion, I would like to express gratitude from my warm heart to all the travelers whom I have met. And, more about myself, I was born and raised in Seoul. Before becoming a tour guide, I had been working in Petrochemical Industry for major Korean conglomerates for quite a long timeframe. And, for developing overseas business projects of the enterprises. I resided in Indonesia and Vietnam as an expatriate for about 9 years. Working in an international business environment and in a big organization gave me chances to broaden my views of the world and better understand diverse perspectives, cultures, religion, economics and politics as well. And, as I like reading books, my understanding about Korean history and human beings have been deepened with time. You will see real Korea with the unviased vision through the eyes of real Korean. Multiple days tour is also recommended. I can organise it reflectimg your tastes! Come and enjoy with me! Sincerly, Andy *Qualification/License : Official English interpreting tourist guide (Korea Tourism Organization) Korean History Evaluation Test 1st Grade certificate. Driver's license(Sedan and Van) *Academic background : Master degree (Business & Administration) Bachelor's degree (engineering chemical dept.)
Charlie C.
Hello, I am Charlie, a tour guide. It’s very nice to meet you! I warmly welcome you to Korea. Korea is a beautiful country with 5,000 years of history. Drawing on my experience working for a Korean government agency and my expertise in Korean history and culture, I would like to introduce you to many tourist attractions, including Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi Province. Join me on a journey, and let’s have a wonderful time together. Thank you very much!
New Seoul Tour Guides
Pam K.
I’m a Korean-Canadian professional tour guide, fully certified and passionate about sharing the culture, history, and food of Korea with you. Having spent my early years in Korea before moving to Canada for 17 years, I have a unique perspective that blends both cultures. My love for Korean food, history, culture, and the warmth of its people inspired me to pursue a career as a tour guide after traveling the world. Over the past decade, I have had the privilege of leading more than 1,000 professional tours for over 3,000 travelers from 70 different countries. With native-level proficiency in both Korean and English, I strive to create engaging experiences that connect Eastern and Western cultures as we explore this beautiful country together. I look forward to guiding you through the rich tapestry of Korea, where you will have the opportunity to explore many highlights and hidden gems of the city, including the majestic royal palaces, the charming traditional Hanok village, vibrant traditional markets, and exciting street food areas!
Kelly O.
Hey! I'm Kelly :) I have 2 years of experience as a tour guide. I started by showing Korea to my foreign friends and students as a Korean teacher. I can help you make the most of your stay in Korea, as I know many hidden gems and can adjust to your needs and interests. for example history tours, K-pop tours, food&cafe tours, local experience tours, etc. We can also learn some basic Korean if you want, so you can connect with locals! Let's go!
Sam H.
Discover Seoul with a Passionate Local Guide: As a long-time Seoul resident and English-speaking tour guide, I've explored every nook and cranny of this incredible city. Let me share my deep knowledge of Seoul's rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems with you. I'm passionate about bringing the city to life through engaging storytelling and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're craving historical insights, delicious food, or breathtaking sights, I'm dedicated to crafting personalized tours that exceed your expectations. Let's embark on a journey together to uncover the heart and soul of Seoul.
Don L.
Hello, l am Don, one of Seoul's most exceptional tourist guides. I love my occupation and my customers tell me that's obvious. I give entertaining, engaging, educational, and enlightening tours for the visitors in Seoul from all corners of globe. I present the beauty of Seoul and hidden gems in Korea. I can customize your tour according to your interest, so just tell me what excites you and all the rest will be my task. Your tour with me would be a once in a lifetime experience.
Popular Seoul Private Tours
Full-day Intro to Seoul and Korean History
This is my standard and very popular Itinerary for this ~8 hour tour: it can be adjusted for individual preferences. Its intention is to be a fascinating orientation & overview of Seoul "old & new", with introduction to who the Koreans are, and the key points of their history and customs. We can move faster and see more, or take our time and see a bit fewer sites; it's all up to your personal style. I will be telling colorful stories all along the way. You will learn so much, and in context!!
Seoul Downtown Walking Tour - the past and the present
From the serene atmosphere of palaces and old traditional villages to the bustling traditional markets and streets, you will see and experience real life in Seoul. I will help you explore the hidden gems and stories!
Gangbuk Seoul (Northern district of Hangang River in Seoul) one day tour
This is the highlight to cover the traditional district in Seoul(called "Gangbuk"). You will learn overall Korean history including Seoul, life passages of Koreans(from birth till after death) and Korean democracy evolvement. You will feel the beauty of traditional architecture harmonized with modern buildings in Seoul. This tour covers visiting old palace, folk museum, city stream, old city wall and etcetra. For more description, refer to the itinerary below.
Central Seoul Walking Tour ; From Gwanghwamun Square to Ikseon-dong Hanok Alley.
Gwanghwamun Square connects the Joseon Dynasty and modern times. The view of Bukaksan Mountain and Gyeongbokgung Palace from Gwanghwamun Square is just like a landscape. Let's go on a journey back to the past at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. We can tour antique shops and galleries along the Insadong Cultural Street. Jogyesa Temple is worth visiting. Lastly, Ikseon-dong Hanok Alley has pretty cafes, restaurants, and stores while maintaing traditional Korea houses.
New Seoul Private Tours
the newest hot spots in Seoul
If you are looking for the most trendy and newest hot spots, this is right for you. you can experience walking through the crowds in the bustling streets, browsing through the chic cafes in affluent neighborhood, and getting along with the warm hearted people with drinking.
Korean BBQ & Pub crawling
Do you want to learn about Korean barbecue and drinking culture? How about a drink with a Korean friend? I will share with you interesting stories about Koreans and their life passages in a comfortable atmosphere. Here's a program that's perfect for you. I'll take you to a heap spot in Seoul. There are 4 options below. You can select a place you prefer or a place close to your accommodation. A) Hongdae B) Jongno (Ikseon-dong) C) Jamsil D) Where you want to go
Day trip to Suwon Fortress + Starfield Library Suwon by train
Let’s take a local train to Suwon, a hidden gem near Seoul. At its heart lies a stunning UNESCO-listed fortress, a must-visit for history and culture lovers. Suwon is also famous for its delicious beef rib BBQ, grilled to perfection, and crispy fried chicken with a variety of flavorful sauces. To end our journey, we’ll visit the stunning Starfield Library in Starfield Mall—its striking design and vast book collection make it a perfect final stop.
Where Tradition Meets Innovation: From Changdeokgung to DDP
A Perfect Seoul Tour Blending Tradition and Modernity. Experience the past, present, and future of Korea by exploring Jongmyo, a site preserving deep traditions, and DDP, an representing cutting-edge technology. Jongmyo & Changdeokgung Palace: Visit to these UNESCO World Heritage- Bukchon Hanok Village: Stroll traditional hanok houses DDP : futuristic architectural landmark where modern art and design coexist. Myeongdong Street: Enjoy most famous shopping and food destinations.
Popular Seoul Private Cars
Nami Island, Petite France, Pinocchio & Da vinci tour
This is picturesque island located in Chuncheon, which is famous for its natural beauty and filming location for the Korean drama "Winter,Sonata". You will also visit the French and Italian style villages near by, and enjoy exotic atmosphere.
Enjoying nature away from Seoul
Would you like to get away all the way from Seoul and experience nature? A small island (Namiseom) and an arboretum (Morning Calm) are located about 1.5 ~ 2hours away from Seoul. You will take a boat to get to Namiseom, there are tall trees lining both sides of the roads such as Metasequoia Road and Maple Forest. If you like 'Little Prince', 'Pinocchio' and 'Da Vinci', you can replace one of two places above for the 'Petite France and Italian Village'.
Amazing Western Seoul Tour
Eunpyeong Hanok Village boasts a beautiful natural environment. It is a famous place where you can feel the beauty and peace. Seoul Botanic Park is a space where nearly 8,000 species of plants live. It has a botanical culture center, a botanical library, and cafe, so you can spend a leisurely time. The Han River is the most important river for Seoul citizens. “Hangang Tour Cruise” starting from Yeouido Dock is the best gift to see the beautiful scenery of the Han River and Seoul.
Airport Service: Seamless Transfers, Just for You! (Minivan 1-5 PAX)
From Incheon Airport to your Seoul accommodation, or from Seoul to Incheon Airport, we’re here to provide a warm and comfortable transfer. Embracing the spirit of Korean hospitality, our service lets you relax and enjoy your journey from the moment you arrive. With experienced, friendly drivers, we ensure a safe and smooth ride, so you can start your Seoul experience refreshed or end it with ease. Let us make your time in Korea unforgettable, right down to the last moment.
Seoul Tour Reviews
Stan V.
“Helaas niet door gegaan”
Vanwege plotselinge ziekte van ons kon de tour met Paul niet doorgaan. Jammer. We hadden ons er écht op verheugd. Paul heeft ons in de aanloop van de excursie steeds prima op de hoogte gehouden en geïnformeerd hoe we het beste kunnen reizen. Weet zeker dat onze excursie met Paul top zou zijn geweest, maar helaas: we waren er té ziek voor.
Paul K.
Dear Stan, I much appreciate your review with 5 star rating, though you did not tour. Anyway it is written in Dutch. Again, I am so sorry that you got sick in S.Korea and lost your tour. Hope you recover your health and enjoy your whole tour. Paul
Cameron M.
“Wonderful Evening Tour of Seoul! ”
Our family of 3 flew to Incheon on the way to Fukuoka. We wanted to see Seoul during our layover but the group tours offered from the airport did not match our timing. We are so happy we found Alice on GoWithGuide! She put together a customized tour for us including pick up from the airport and drop off at our hotel in Incheon. Alice is very knowledgeable about Seoul and the attractions we saw, and she is personable and very flexible with timing and itinerary. We had a wonderful night in Seoul thanks to Alice and would not hesitate booking with her again next time we come to Korea!
Alice K.
Hello Cameron!! Thank you for leaving such a wonderful review for me. I also had a great time with you and your family. Since it was late, there were some limitations on the trip, but you willingly understood and enjoyed the journey. You and your family were like ambassadors of happiness, spreading joy to others. Thank you for spending time with me. I hope you can visit Korea again with a more relaxed schedule in the future! Best Regards. From Alice.
Sarai T.
“A very unexpectedly great and fun time with Andy! ”
I just landed in Korea and booked with Andy 1 day before the tour. I messaged 10 other tour guides & Andy was the 2nd to respond, but with the most warm message ever. When we landed, the language barrier was so hard that a taxi driver denied us because we couldn't communicate. It made me feel defeated, and I realized how much I may need a personal translator. I requested a customizable tour where Andy could show me how to use the metro system, eat, and shop around. Andy genuinely made me feel like I was going to be taken care of. He may not know this, but he comforted me a lot with his words. Andy was also VERY flexible when it came to changing things up last minute and going with the flow in the moment. The most unexpected thing that made this trip was that I thought after a while Andy would get tired like my mom, and want to move fast, but I was wrong! I'm a 20 yr old girl who LOVES to shop. Not only was he spending HOURS with me in the shops, he's giving me ideas, and it's GIRLY things like skincare, purses, jewelry, and clothes. He also has GREAT taste! It was like I went shopping with my friend who is genuinely happy to be there & wants to help me find the best thing for my taste. It truly changed my perspective on him. I just thought he may be a guide immersed in history and culture of Korea, which is true as well - but he is also well-rounded apparently! The tour I booked with Andy was only 8 hours, but he spent the WHOLE day with us and didn't charge us at all. I truly feel as though Andy is just having a good time as well. Not only did I have a guide with me, but a friend. Andy was cracking so much jokes, and genuinely made me laugh. Me & Andy were always together, but somehow my mom would wander off and walk VERY far away from us. We both would have to aggressively scream "MOMMM!" to get her attention, but even then she could not hear us. Every time it happened, it was we made a joke about it. It was so much fun...
Andy P.
THANK you, Sarai so much for your kind review. I really enjoyed the time I spent with you and your mom. The weather was a bit cold. However, It could not block our JOURNEY. I'm so glad that you had a really fun time. I will pray for you and your family. Feel the NEW life and ENJOY the life! I will be any assistance for you anytime. Cheers for YOU and MOM. Thanks with LOVE. :)
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?
Yes! The Special City has so much to offer and we believe the best way to see Seoul’s hidden attractions, and well known gems is with a local expert tour guide that knows the city’s ins and outs.
Looking to hire a guide for your Seoul-searching trip? Get in contact with one of our many Seoul Tour Guides and create your dream custom itinerary.
Yes! The Special City has so much to offer and we believe the best way to see Seoul’s hidden attractions, and well known gems is with a local expert tour guide that knows the city’s ins and outs.
Looking to hire a guide for your Seoul-searching trip? Get in contact with one of our many Seoul Tour Guides and create your dream custom itinerary.
How do I get a Seoul tour guide?
- Head to our Seoul Tour Guides page and click on any guide profile. If you’re unsure, you can click on several and see which guide matches up with your travel interests and availability.
- Once you find a guide you like, you can either select from one of their pre-set tours, or send over your own suggestions by hitting the “message” button on the right hand side of the profile.
- Let your guide know your travel time, and any special needs or concerns you have during the consultation stage. If the vibe is right, and their timeline matches with yours, it’s time to take the next step in creating lifelong memories by securing your tour!
More Information: Hiring A Guide In Seoul: Pros & Cons
- Head to our Seoul Tour Guides page and click on any guide profile. If you’re unsure, you can click on several and see which guide matches up with your travel interests and availability.
- Once you find a guide you like, you can either select from one of their pre-set tours, or send over your own suggestions by hitting the “message” button on the right hand side of the profile.
- Let your guide know your travel time, and any special needs or concerns you have during the consultation stage. If the vibe is right, and their timeline matches with yours, it’s time to take the next step in creating lifelong memories by securing your tour!
More Information: Hiring A Guide In Seoul: Pros & Cons
What is the best month to visit Seoul?
March to May and September to November are often considered ideal travel months because of the mild weather and slightly lower crowds, but Seoul has something to offer all year round.
March to May and September to November are often considered ideal travel months because of the mild weather and slightly lower crowds, but Seoul has something to offer all year round.
How much do you tip a guide in Korea?
Don’t tip your guide in South Korea. Why? Because it carries a different cultural meaning than in other countries. In Korea, it can be taken as rude and offensive. As if you’re insulting the person by calling them poor. Instead, leave them a five star review and refer their services to other travelers.
Don’t tip your guide in South Korea. Why? Because it carries a different cultural meaning than in other countries. In Korea, it can be taken as rude and offensive. As if you’re insulting the person by calling them poor. Instead, leave them a five star review and refer their services to other travelers.
Are there female guides in Seoul, South Korea?
Yes! We have bilingual women guides that specialize in highlighting Seoul’s greatest elements. To learn more, message one of our local expert guides.
Yes! We have bilingual women guides that specialize in highlighting Seoul’s greatest elements. To learn more, message one of our local expert guides.
Is English spoken widely in Seoul?
English is widely understood in Seoul, but people in Seoul are less likely to speak fluent English. The proficiency rate in Seoul is 580, which is moderate. The remedy? Speak slowly and learn some common phrases, or get a local guide to help deepen your interaction with locals. You might even make a new friend!
More Information About Seoul: Seoul Tourism Statistics 2023
English is widely understood in Seoul, but people in Seoul are less likely to speak fluent English. The proficiency rate in Seoul is 580, which is moderate. The remedy? Speak slowly and learn some common phrases, or get a local guide to help deepen your interaction with locals. You might even make a new friend!
More Information About Seoul: Seoul Tourism Statistics 2023
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 freaking...
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 betwee...
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...
All Tours Customizable
Start By Messaging Your Guide
100% Private Tours
Just You and Your Local Tour Guide
Quality Assured Guides
Screened and Verified via Interviews
Connect with a Tour Guide in Seoul
Chat with the best tour guides in Seoul. Get a free itinerary and plan your private tour today.
Book a Customizable Seoul Private Tour
Browse Seoul tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite Seoul tour.
