- 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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70043/fbff8d33-cbbe-4b9f-afe8-56f03213c110.png)
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.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/76161/37be3455-4b9a-4384-b29a-d3ce8193a3be.png)
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!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/35297/ef724b05-f5b5-4a0a-9a36-50e0c84646aa.png)
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 9 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.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/75169/b7955194-10e5-4fc8-aaea-353ba661a4c6.png)
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. With over 5 years of professional guiding experience, I have successfully led more than 1,000 guests from around the world. I am trained in VIP protocol and assisted distinguished guests, including state visitors and the 2025 APEC Summit delegates. I specialize in delivering refined, seamless, and culturally insightful experiences tailored to each guest. 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.
New Seoul Tour Guides
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/108568/f0163738-e136-4f78-8249-e1f7a72c08c3.png)
Hayoung Y.
Hi, I’m Hayoung. You can also call me Iris. I have always been drawn to things that feel different, so I want to make your trip less typical, more personal, and closer to the local side of Korea. I’m a licensed local guide based in Seoul, with a young, trendy, and stylish perspective on Korea. I love introducing both the classic side of Seoul, such as palaces, history, and culture, and the modern local side, including fashion, cafés, beauty, food, hidden spots, and current trends. Before becoming a guide, I worked as a travel blogger and majored in fashion design. This background helps me create tours with a good sense of storytelling, photo spots, style, and practical travel tips. I also have my own curated list of more than 1,000 restaurants & beautiful spots, so I can recommend food & sightseeing spots based on your taste, budget, mood, and travel style. I can also create custom tours based on your interests, whether you want modern Seoul, palace tours, fashion and shopping, local food, Korean nature, or even remote hidden destinations beyond Seoul. (especially NATURE) More than anything, I truly love travel and meeting people from around the world. My goal is to make you feel comfortable and excited, like exploring Korea with a local friend who also happens to be a professional guide. Let’s explore Korea together and make your trip unforgettable!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94631/895ec523-142b-48f1-ab0b-380ae1820bb3.png)
Juhee K.
Hi! I’m Juhee, a nationally certified tour guide with the heart of a teacher and a passion for sharing Korea in a meaningful way. I have over six years of experience teaching Korean to learners from more than 20 countries, ranging from children to adults, both in the U.S. and Korea. Teaching the language naturally led me to culture and history—because once students begin to understand Korean, they always become curious about why things are done a certain way here. I’ve also taught a university summer course, “Introduction to Korean Cinema,” exploring Korean history and society through films and dramas. That curiosity eventually brought me into tour guiding. My goal is to help visitors understand Korea through stories, context, and real-life experiences, not just facts. Thanks to my teaching background, I explain things clearly and at a comfortable pace—never rushed or overwhelming. My tours are well-organized, interactive, and friendly. I tailor each experience to guests’ interests, introduce useful Korean expressions along the way, and connect Korea’s past with everyday life today—from royal palaces and historic sites to places locals genuinely enjoy. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, positive, and approachable guide, I’d love to show you around Seoul. Let’s explore Korea with curiosity, clarity, and great energy.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/91381/7f7cf78a-81a1-47c9-9b9f-48bb21709a67.png)
Johnny C.
Hello, I am a native Seoul guide, born and raised in Gangnam, where I have lived all my life. Growing up while witnessing the transformation of Gangnam and the rhythm of Seoul has given me the unique strength of introducing the city from the perspective of someone who has truly lived it. For the past ten years, I have worked in the travel industry, meeting guests from many different countries and gaining extensive experience in on-site operations, product development, and customer service. Through this, I have come to understand—more deeply than anyone—what international travelers look for in Seoul and what moments genuinely move them. This insight allows me to design customized routes and narratives that match each traveler’s interests and purpose. With a background in English studies and practical field experience, I guide naturally in both Korean and English, explaining even complex historical and cultural topics with clarity and ease. My broad on-site experience also enables me to remain calm and flexible when unexpected situations arise. To me, Seoul is not only my workplace but my home. I aim to present this familiar city in the freshest, most authentic way—so you can experience Seoul at its very best. Thank you.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/84570/0e8da6de-ee83-4780-9834-6c8e49042d03.png)
Chris L.
Hi there! I'm Chris, and I've been a licensed tour guide since 2004. Being in a foreign country can sometimes feel a bit daunting and overwhelming. It's a bit of a challenge when you don't speak the language, but that's all part of the adventure! You'll have to figure out the map, get around, and manage your money. While jet lag is still lingering, you're eager to see as much as possible before your flight departs in a few days. Relax, my friend! You'll be in the very best hands with your very own reliable tour guide in Korea! I'll be your personal tour guides, helping you plan the perfect itinerary and taking you to all the best tourist attractions Korea has to offer. I'm a fully licensed, professional tourist guide, and I've been doing this since 2004. In Korea, you need a special license issued by the Korean government to work as a tourist guide. I've always had a real passion for history, tradition, and culture. I'm so proud of my English, and I absolutely love using it to chat with guests about the history and traditions of Korea. I absolutely love sharing my culture with them and showing them what it's like to be a true Korean. I'm so excited to show you the best of Korea! Being local is the best way to enjoy the country, and I'm here to help you do just that. I've been lucky enough to take countless tours myself, so I can offer you a wealth of knowledge to help you get the most out of your time here.
Popular Seoul Private Tours
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/daf1d2c4-09eb-4503-b712-96e1fc5b6f54.jpg)
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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70043/fbff8d33-cbbe-4b9f-afe8-56f03213c110.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19459/06dd5c8d-4df8-47a9-a4cc-7ea2047e727e.jpg)
Seoul Walking & Street Food Tour: Hanok to Market
Join this afternoon walking tour through some of Seoul’s most iconic and trendy neighborhoods, from historic Bukchon Hanok Village to vibrant Ikseon-dong. Visit cultural landmarks like the Seoul Museum of Craft Art, stroll through streets filled with traditional crafts, and enjoy a relaxing tea break. What makes this tour special is the flavor—taste authentic Korean street snacks and market favorites, especially at Gwangjang Market. Ready to explore Korea’s unique flavors with me?
Seoul Walking & Street Food Tour: Hanok to Market
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/76161/37be3455-4b9a-4384-b29a-d3ce8193a3be.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19142/7cda2aa0-a960-4c8b-a52b-4aceb4a12515.jpg)
Seoul: A Journey Through History
Seoul has been the capital city of Korea since 1392. You will explore cultural heritage sites, including a royal palace, a Buddhist temple, the old streets, and a traditional market in the northern part of the city, all in one full day.
Seoul: A Journey Through History
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/75169/b7955194-10e5-4fc8-aaea-353ba661a4c6.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20476/017e5890-3a37-44a9-b065-7256b5a9fbe8.jpg)
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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/75964/4a592fba-e4c5-40d2-9bc3-98a4496d0fac.png)
New Seoul Private Tours
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24261/7471d2ce-db3c-4f3b-ba6d-8ea21045b6eb.JPG)
Capture Your Retro Seoul: Palace & Hanok Photo Walk with a Vintage Camera
If you want to remember your trip to Korea in a trendy, retro, and personal way, this tour is for you. We will explore Seoul’s palace, hanok alley, café, and beautiful local photo spots at a relaxed pace. I will share simple cultural stories and capture your natural travel moments with my vintage digital camera. I'm good at capturing natural and memorable travel moments. Please check my sample photos to see if this style matches what you are looking for.
Capture Your Retro Seoul: Palace & Hanok Photo Walk with a Vintage Camera
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/108568/f0163738-e136-4f78-8249-e1f7a72c08c3.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24253/34fd4431-f244-4fce-87ec-c6f4a608e177.jpg)
Seoul Vintage Hunt: Dongmyo Flea Market, Toy Street & Local Food
What if you could complete a fashion look in Seoul with just $10? This tour is a vintage hunt in Dongmyo, one of Seoul’s most unique second-hand markets, where you can find vintage clothes, watches, accessories, and random old items. Dongmyo flea market is full of stylish local seniors, street vendors, and unexpected fashion moments. Find cool vintage pieces and take photos like Dongmyo’s local hipsters. We will also visit nearby Toy and Stationery Street and try affordable local street foods.
Seoul Vintage Hunt: Dongmyo Flea Market, Toy Street & Local Food
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24252/83d4cfb7-1fde-416d-97a2-0fb6c133ea0a.jpg)
Seoul Night View Like a Local: Easy Hike & Late-Night Food
This tour is a relaxed local night out for travelers who want to see the Seoul most tourists miss. We will take a short evening hike to the Mt. Achasan viewpoint, a local route loved by Seoul residents. The round-trip walk takes about 1.5 hours, with night views of eastern Seoul, including Lotte World Tower. After the hike, we can enjoy Korean fried chicken, late-night food, or a casual drink like locals.
Seoul Night View Like a Local: Easy Hike & Late-Night Food
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22833/4503342e-1b74-4bd0-a60b-2d1c6e27bc00.jpg)
Private Seoul Tour – Fully Customizable
Discover Seoul like a local with a fully customizable private walking tour using public transportation. Instead of taxis, you’ll explore the city by bus and subway—just like locals do—giving you a more authentic and immersive experience. From iconic landmarks to hidden neighborhoods and local food spots, your itinerary is fully tailored to your interests. Travel at your own pace while your guide helps you navigate the city with ease, making your journey both seamless and meaningful.
Private Seoul Tour – Fully Customizable
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/66515/5d6fcc9e-2b9a-4b33-8337-5c5e605d8297.png)
Popular Seoul Private Cars
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18332/571b377b-89bf-47ff-938e-0e8b83017402.jpg)
Private DMZ tour + Korean Street Food Experience at Mangwon market
Explore the historic DMZ, where North and South Korea meet, and learn about the peninsula’s divided past. After the tour, dive into local life at Mangwon Market, tasting authentic Korean street foods like tteokbokki, hotteok, and crispy fried snacks. A perfect mix of history, culture, and delicious flavors.
Private DMZ tour + Korean Street Food Experience at Mangwon market
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19411/cf10754f-2b4e-4083-999f-12a00d1760bb.jpg)
Ganghwa-do Island Day Tour: History & Nature
Discover Ganghwa-do Island’s quiet beauty on a day that blends history, nature, and local life. Walk sea-swept shores and peaceful pavilions, feel the weight of centuries at ancient temples, and gaze toward the DMZ—so close you can almost see North Korea across the water. I’ll drive you comfortably, tailor the pace to your interests, and share stories that bring the island to life. This is a gentle, unforgettable escape from the city. Join me and let’s experience it together!
Ganghwa-do Island Day Tour: History & Nature
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/11410/162676.jpg)
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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/35297/ef724b05-f5b5-4a0a-9a36-50e0c84646aa.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/6816/110391.jpeg)
Private One-Day Tour in Seoul – Partially Customizable Itinerary + Free Photography Service
If it’s your first time in Seoul, this full-day private tour is a great way to fall in love with the city — where old traditions and modern life come together beautifully. As you explore and enjoy the day, I’ll capture your special moments with a high-resolution camera and provide professionally edited photos after the tour. The itinerary is flexible and can be customized to match your interests. Just let me know what you’d like to see or do!
Private One-Day Tour in Seoul – Partially Customizable Itinerary + Free Photography Service
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/32992/84f196d0-65c7-456d-98a2-98c0a4c9b597.png)
Seoul Tour Reviews
Michelle M.
“The Perfect Birthday in Seoul Thanks to Juhee!”
I could not have asked for a better way to spend my birthday in Seoul. Juhee put an incredible amount of thought and preparation into creating a day that was completely customized for me, and it truly showed. She went above and beyond from the very beginning, finding the perfect hanbok rental and arranging my hair and makeup, then making our visit to the palace so much more meaningful with her explanations of the royal family, Korean history, and even the stories and significance behind the clothing we were wearing. She didn’t just take me places. She gave me the context and stories that made everything come alive. From the palace to the baseball game, every part of the day felt thoughtfully planned around what I asked for and would enjoy. She even surprised me with a customized birthday cake, which I never expected and was such a special touch. We ended the night in a photo booth taking some seriously fun photos, and by then it honestly felt like I had spent my birthday with a close friend rather than a tour guide. Juhee put so much time, care, and preparation into making my birthday special, and she absolutely succeeded. It was one of my favorite days in Korea and a birthday I will always remember. If you want someone who will genuinely care about creating an amazing, personalized experience in Seoul around what matters to you, book with Juhee. I can't recommend her highly enough.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94631/895ec523-142b-48f1-ab0b-380ae1820bb3.png)
Juhee K.
Thank you so much for such a heartfelt review! Reading this honestly made my day. I had such a wonderful time celebrating your birthday with you in Seoul, and I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed all the little details we planned throughout the day. Thank you again for trusting me with your birthday and letting me be a part of such a special day. I had so much fun with you, and I really hope we get to see each other again someday!
Ross and jennifer K.
“Amazing Day in Seoul with Sally”
Sally provided us with an incredible tour four our family of 4 on our first day in Seoul. Sally was communicating with me before we left for Korea, confirming the logistics, and working to personalize our upcoming experience. She met us promptly at our hotel, helped our family set up a full-day taxi rental (it was a rainy day so very needed) , and guided us ALL over the city. She made sure we saw so much of Seoul’s history, culture, food, cafe culture and shopping all in one day! Sally was so knowledgeable, friendly and thoughtful as well. She even sent us pictures she had taken of our family, as well as recommendations for the rest of our Korea trip. This experience was a 10/10 and I would highly recommend Sally for your Seoul experience!
Sally K.
Thank you so much for spending a time to leave a thoughtful review! It was a true pleasure to guide a lovely family and the day was very meaningful and unforgettable for me as well. I am glad to hear that my photos and recommendations made your trip memorable and enjoyable. Thank you again for the perfect 10/10 score and for your warm recommendation. I wish you all the best, and I hope to welcome you back to Korea in the future! Warm regards, Sally
Carolyn M.
“Incredible VIP tour”
Thomas is an expert on Seoul and Korean history. He was cery efficient in getting us to different destination. He has a true love for Korea and Korean history, which made the tour even more special. We were thankful for the variety of photos he took with his professional camera, and are excited to keep those memories. Thank you so much for this amazing day!
Thomas K.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. It was a pleasure spending the day with you and your sister and sharing Seoul and Korean history with you both. I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour and the photos. I hope they will bring back many wonderful memories of your time in Korea. Thank you again, and I wish you and your sister all the best!
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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/posts/6091/9068100e-fba9-49dd-a17a-d0ffd2b0405c.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/61132/66c39fba-06c0-4a4a-b9b5-27a0f76f25cf.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/posts/6084/b83d9c3a-9fd0-4f4d-b664-1a1cf1d2a5c2.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/84464/5c0fd838-68e2-4df6-ace2-b93327ba57fa.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/posts/6079/7694b68e-d788-463f-b007-729200a907a6.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/posts/6077/5f7bd3ae-82f9-4844-9777-c827569d66ae.jpg)
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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/gowithguide/assets/collections/unity_guides.jpg)
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.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/cities/2195/92651.jpg)
Book a Customizable Seoul Private Tour
Browse Seoul tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite Seoul tour.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/gowithguide/assets/collections/cars.png)
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.
/fit-in/gowithguide/assets/collections/airport-transfer.avif){kind=spacer}