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Discover Things to Do and Plan a Trip to Seoul, South Korea with a Local Guide
Popular Seoul Tour Guides
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Kwan J.
Hello, and welcome to Korea! My name is Kwan, and I have been an authorized tour guide with the Korean Tourism Organization (KTO) since 2019. My tour programs are designed to provide you with authentic and meaningful experiences of Korea, focusing on its rich culture, history, and traditions rather than fleeting trends. If you're looking for a leisurely and relaxed itinerary filled with captivating stories about our heritage and people, I am the guide for you! Additionally, I bring over 13 years of experience delivering exceptional service to VIP clients during my tenure at Cartier, the world-renowned jewelry brand. With this background, I ensure that your journey will be marked by an unparalleled level of care and attention.
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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!
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Minho K.
Welcome to Korea! Welcome to Seoul! My name is Minho, and I am a licensed tour guide offering private tours in Korea. Having been born and raised in a small town, completed my high school and college education in a bustling city, and subsequently residing in Seoul for the past 20 years, I bring a wealth of experience to my role. With a professional background spanning over 26 years in both local and global companies within the automotive and IT industries, I am confident that traveling with me will be a captivating and enriching experience. My 30-month military service at a US army base in Korea becomes particularly advantageous during a DMZ tour, offering valuable insights into the history and relationship between North and South Korea. Driven by a passion for sharing knowledge, experiences, and insights into Korean culture and lifestyle, I am equally eager to learn from you. I am confident in my ability to ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable stay in Korea. Having served as an official tour guide during the 2018 Winter Olympics in Korea, where I facilitated the transportation of athletes and tourists between the Olympic Village and Seoul over a two-week period, I am well-versed in managing diverse needs and expectations. All of my tours are custom-tailored to your preferences, guaranteeing exciting days filled with learning about our people, history, and culture, visiting remarkable places, and capturing beautiful moments through photography. If you aspire to create unforgettable memories during your stay in Korea, I encourage you to contact me promptly. * National English speaking tour guide license issued by KTO (Korea Tourism Organization) * Official tour guide for 2018 Winter Olympic in Korea * 26+ Experience in global companies * Military service in US army in Korea
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Kevin L.
I received a license in 2016 from the Korea Tourism Organization as a qualified professional tour guide. I have guided a variety of tours for people and tourists from all over the world and have been doing so for over 6 years. Before being a tour guide I spent most of my career working in the banking industry for almost 30 years, starting with Korea First Bank which later became a US based Newbridge Capital and UK based Standard Chartered Bank until I retired in 2016. My experience in the banking industry was very much customer-first and dealing with the public which laid the cornerstone and passion to becoming a tour guide. After retiring from the bank, I worked as a lecturer for a volunteering organization run by the local public office and taught students about the environment and disabilities. With various experiences and personal management skills, these challenges have provided a real life, hands on cultural nuances which will promote friendship and expand life experiences between different cultures. I'm based in Seoul but will be happily arrange the tours to Busan, Gyeongju, Sokcho, Jeonju etc. as a customized tour. Feel free to drop me a request message.
New Seoul Tour Guides
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Peter P.
Hello! My name is Peter, and I’m a licensed tour guide based in South Korea. I specialize in sharing Korea’s rich history, culture, and hidden gems with travelers from all around the world. With a mix of storytelling, humor, and local insight, I aim to make each tour not just informative, but truly memorable. Whether you're visiting royal palaces, scenic hiking trails, foodie spots, or modern neighborhoods, I’ll help you see Korea through the eyes of a local. Let’s explore together and have some fun along the way!
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Jeeseon C.
Hi! I’m Jeeseon. Over the past several years, I’ve been working as a licensed guide, leading travelers from around the world through palaces, temples, hanok villages, traditional markets, and Seoul’s hidden local neighborhoods. I especially enjoy introducing guests to off-the-beaten-path gems and sharing the city’s authentic local atmosphere. Many of my guests say it feels like exploring the city with a thoughtful local friend. I design every tour with care, balancing history, culture, and everyday life, so each guest can experience Seoul in a personal and memorable way. Guiding is more than a job to me, it’s a way to connect people with the heart of Korea. My tours are ideal for curious travelers who want more than just sightseeing. I specialize in: Korean history and culture storytelling Practical Hangul learning experiences Hidden gem exploration for repeat travelers An orientation tour for first-time travelers to Korea with a Hangul learning session
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Sally K.
I am a government-certified tour guide, showcasing popular tourist attractions, breathtaking scenic spots, and hidden gems across Seoul and other major cities in Korea. I am passionate about sharing insights into Korean history, culture, traditions, food, politics, inter-Korean relations, and modern social trends. I truly value building genuine connections and intimacy with my guests. By creating a warm and engaging atmosphere during the tour, I promise you a joyful, meaningful, and unforgettable experience during your stay in Korea.
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Kean P.
Hi, guys! My name is Kean, and I’m a licensed tour guide. I specialize in Seoul city tours and also lead tours to nearby areas like the DMZ or Nami Island. I want to help you feel like a Seoulite through my timely and up to date tours. For example, the Netflix animation movie, K-Pop Demon Hunters is creating a worldwide sensation right now, and many tourists are visiting the locations in Seoul shown in the film. I’ll be guiding you to the hot spots. Additionally, I'll introduce the traditional Korean culture featured in the movie through my signature National Museum of Korea art tour. Feel free to ask me anything, anytime. I’ll be your true friend in Seoul. See you soon, guys.
Popular Seoul Private Tours
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K-Food Trip Version 1: Black-bean noodle & Marinated blue-crab in Incheon
Korean cuisine, much like its rich culture and long history, showcases remarkable diversity, reflecting the country's daily life and environment. To truly explore Korea, I recommend experiencing local foods at their place of origin. Discover how these dishes have evolved over time and the unique stories behind the regions you visit. K-Food Trip Version 1 takes you to Incheon's Chinatown and fish market, offering a immersive journey into the area's culinary traditions and vibrant food culture.
K-Food Trip Version 1: Black-bean noodle & Marinated blue-crab in Incheon
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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!!
Full-day Intro to Seoul and Korean History
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Evening Walk: Street Food, Hidden Alleys & a Glowing Palace(Food Included)
Discover the flavors and charm of Seoul on this 3-hour evening walking tour. We'll start by sampling local street food at a bustling traditional market — food tastings are included. As the sun sets, we’ll walk along the old stone wall of Jongmyo Shrine, lined with small cafés, ending our tour with a night visit to a beautifully lit royal palace. Perfect for travelers who want to experience real Korean life, hidden corners, and unforgettable night views, all guided by a local expert.
Evening Walk: Street Food, Hidden Alleys & a Glowing Palace(Food Included)
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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.
Central Seoul Walking Tour ; From Gwanghwamun Square to Ikseon-dong Hanok Alley.
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New Seoul Private Tours
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Six-Hour Intro to Seoul and Korean History
This is my standard and very popular Itinerary for this ~6 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!!
Six-Hour Intro to Seoul and Korean History
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Seoul Private Custom Tour: Highlights or Hidden Gems Your Pace
Experience Seoul exactly the way you want it—fully private, flexible, and customized just for you. The pace is entirely up to you: walk more or less, pause for tea, or spend extra time at places you love. Whether you know nothing about Seoul or already have specific interests, just tell me, I’ll design the schedule for you.
Seoul Private Custom Tour: Highlights or Hidden Gems Your Pace
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K-culture in Seongsu-dong: BTS is coming soon
Seongsu-dong is one of the best places to experience K-culture, now a global sensation. The neighborhood is full of vintage shops, restaurants, and cafés inside renovated old buildings, making it a favorite spot for young people who love retro vibes. Come and dive into various K-culture with K-pop, led by BTS.
K-culture in Seongsu-dong: BTS is coming soon
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3-stop full-course meal with K-culture
On this tour, you’ll enjoy a full-course meal across 3 different spots: start with a Korean pancake as your appetizer, move on to Korean pork BBQ for the main course, and finish with Korean shaved ice for dessert. Along the way, we’ll also visit Namsan Mountain, which was featured in the Netflix animation movie K-Pop Demon Hunters.
3-stop full-course meal with K-culture
Popular Seoul Private Cars
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Private DMZ tour
Step into one of the most unique and historically significant places in the world -- the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This remarkable tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the division between North and South Korea, blending history, tensions, and the hope for reunification. With expert guides and immersive storytelling, your DMZ journey will deepen your understanding of Korea's history while standing on the very frontier of its future.
Private DMZ tour
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Seoul in a day, private tour
Seoul is a city where history meets modernity. Iconic landmarks such as N Seoul Tower, Lotte World Tower, and DDP stand alongside the city’s rich historical heritage. Amid its vibrant urban landscape, Seoul seamlessly integrates royal palaces, traditional villages, and bustling markets. Visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Korean cuisine, street food, and traditional attire, providing a truly distinctive cultural experience.
Seoul in a day, private tour
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DMZ(Demilitarized Zone)+Gamaksan Suspension Bridge-Korea
Korea is the world's only divided nation, split into South and North Korea by DMZ resulting from the Korean War(1950~1953) which inflicted millions of casualties including 10 million separated family members. By joining the tour, you can catch a glimpse of the much talked about border and the stark reality of the divided country. It also offers insights into the history of division, the heartrending tales of separated families, and a chance to contemplate war, peace and the value of freedom.
DMZ(Demilitarized Zone)+Gamaksan Suspension Bridge-Korea
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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.
Amazing Western Seoul Tour
Seoul Tour Reviews
Stephen B.
“Outstanding Tour of Seoul”
My wife and I enjoyed an outstanding tour of Seoul with Minho. He worked with me to customize the day’s tour to include sites that we were most interested in visiting. Communication was great in planning and while on the tour. Fluent in English. Easy going and flexible but focused enough to keep us on time. Patient in answering our many questions. I highly recommend Minho as your guide for South Korea.
Minho K.
Steve, thanks for your great review. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed my tour. I am looking forward to meeting you again in Korea in the near future. Stay healthy! Thanks, Minho
Nicola G.
“Really fun trip!”
We were meant to go to Mt. Seoraksan, but the morning before traveling we realized that we weren’t ready for the bad weather and messages the tour operator who has been incredibly responsive and we re-routed to Nami Island and the Rail Bike. We started the day with a breakfast recommended by the driver which was very tasty. On our way to Seoul we asked the driver where he should go and he brought us on an impromptu hike on Mt. Bukhasan. We thought it was going to be quick thing but we ended up staying a good 45 mins. The hike was unexpected and fun with a very nice view of Seoul. It was clear that the driver really liked the area. The driver didn’t speak English but used apps to speak with us. It was great to interact with him in this way. The tour operator was always available on WhatsApp and responded quickly to all of our requests.
Liane A.
“Tour of Andong and several Se Wons”
We met Kwan J early in the morning at the Cheongyangi train station and traveled two hours on speed train to Andong. Beautiful ride with nice accommodation. We enjoyed our day with Kwan J. He speaks good English, and as advertised he made sure that everything was taken care of. It was a long day of walking and sightseeing, but Kwan J was quite knowledgeable about the Se Wons we visited and the history behind them. Andong has a beautiful countryside with much farming done in the area. A small town with many historic sites to see. The landscapes were beautiful, but I enjoyed most the tranquil nature of the area. Also enjoyed the Village of Hahoe and the small community that exists there. Much history in it. We walked so much that I was starving for lunch. The Mackeral was excellent along with ban chan dishes served. Kwan was a good tour guide for us and we enjoyed spending our day with him. He had good English skill so we communicated well. It was a looooong, tiring day but a very memorable part of our quick visit to Korea. It was well worth the money.
Kwan J.
Hi Liane, It was truly a pleasure guiding you both—such a lovely Hawaiian couple! I really enjoyed our time together and appreciated your warmth and curiosity throughout the day. I also learned so much about Hawaii from you, which made the experience even more enriching for me. I hope the rest of your journey is filled with wonderful memories and joyful moments. Wishing you all the best on your adventures ahead! Warm regards, Kwan
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
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All Tours Customizable
Start By Messaging Your Guide
100% Private Tours
Just You and Your Local Tour Guide
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Screened and Verified via Interviews
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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.
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Book a Customizable Seoul Private Tour
Browse Seoul tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite Seoul tour.
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Book a Seoul Private Car Tour
Tour Seoul by car or van, or hire a private guide / driver. See reviews and all car tour details.
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