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[Expert Historian] The Soul of Seoul: A Deep Dive into Old City (Gangbuk)

Old East gate

Royal guards changing ceremony of Joseon kingdom

Hall way at Gyeongbokgung palace

Bukchon Hanok village

Statue of King Sejong at Gwanghwamun square

Cheonggyecheon stream

Ihwa mural village

Old city wall of Joseon kingdom

Old city wall

National folk museum

Cheonggyecheon stream

Mural village

Gyeongbokgung palace

Bukchon Hanok village

Wedding ceremony

[Expert Historian] The Soul of Seoul: A Deep Dive into Old City (Gangbuk)

Art, Culture, & Historical

Joined 2025

Andy P.

5.00 / 5

(5 reviews)

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

Seoul

English, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean (Native), Vietnamese

8 hrs 30 mins

Private tour (only you and Andy P.)

Up to 6 people

"Discover the true essence of Seoul with a Certified History Expert & former business strategist."

I was born and raised in Seoul, studied here until graduate school, and have witnessed the city's dramatic transformation.

This tour is not just a walk; it’s an immersive storytelling journey through 600 years of history.

Why this tour?

I provide the 'Answers' you won't find in guidebooks. Join me for an insightful day covering the traditional heart of Seoul, known as "Gangbuk."

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

08:30 AM

Meeting Point

Your Hotel

- At the lobby (where the front desk is located)

09:00 AM

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Cheonggyecheon stream has become a resting place for Seoul citizens. You will learn about how this beautiful stream has changed throughout the history. Feel the beautiful scenery.

09:30 AM

Gwanghwamun square

A symbolic site for Korean democracy. I will introduce you to the two most respected figures in Korean history (King Sejong & Admiral Yi).

10:00 AM

Gyeongbokgung Palace & Royal Guard Ceremony

Witness the 14th-century architectural beauty harmonized with nature. I will guide you through the palace's dignity and the National Folk Museum.

12:50 PM

Insadong street

At Insadong handcraft street, you can look around various shops such as Calligraphy, Paintings, Traditional tea and Souvenirs and etc. We will have lunch time here.

02:20 PM

Bukchon Hanok Village

Historic tile-roofed houses on the hill. Please note: Bukchon is closed to tourists on Sundays to respect residents' privacy.

03:30 PM

Old City Wall & Mural Village

A scenic hike along the ancient fortress. Experience breathtaking views of the city while hearing the tales of the wall that once protected Seoul.

05:00 PM

Hyehwa subway station

You will get to Hyehwa subway station down the hill of the other side. There gather many art theaters for music and plays. Considering time spent and your next destination, our tour can be finished either here or at your Hotel.

Ending Point

Hyehwa Subway station or Your Hotel

Want to personalize this tour?

This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What‘s included

• Full-day Private Guiding Service (by an Expert Historian & former business strategist)

• Personalized Itinerary & Storytelling

What‘s not included

• Meals & Drinks

• Admission fees (Gyeongbokgung: 3,000 KRW/person)

• Transportation (Public transport or Taxi: approx. 15,000 KRW/person)

• Traveler's Insurance

Tour Important Information

■ Why this tour?

• Deep Insight: Learn the hidden stories of the Joseon Dynasty and Korea's rapid modernization.

• Local Perspective: Walk the paths where the past meets the present through an expert's eyes.

• Customized Experience: Flexible pace and content tailored to your intellectual curiosity.

■ Notice

• Comfortable Shoes: This tour involves significant walking (approx. 1km of gentle hiking at the City Wall).

• Palace Closures: Gyeongbokgung is closed every Tuesday. We will substitute it with Deoksugung or Changdeokgung Palace.

• Hanbok Experience: Hanbok rental is available nearby the palace (optional).

In case the day you choose falls on closed day of Gyeongbokgung palace (e.g. every Tuesday), this will be substituted by Deoksugung palace or Changdeokgung palace.

Bukchon close on every Sunday.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time

Joined 2025

Andy P.

5.00 / 5

(5 reviews)

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Andy P.

[Expert Historian & Your Knowledgeable Korean Friend]

"To truly understand a country, you need a guide who has lived its history and navigated its modern complexities."

Hi, I am Andy. I bridge the gap between Korea’s dynamic corporate world and its profound historical roots. While I am a Certified History Expert (1st Grade), my guests often describe me as a "knowledgeable and humorous Korean friend."

■ Why Choose My Tour?

• Intellectual Depth: I don't just list dates; I share stories. With a Master's degree and 20+ years of corporate experience, I provide a nuanced analysis of how Korea’s past shaped its present.

• Global Perspective & Empathy: With about 10 years of experience as an expatriate in Indonesia and Vietnam, and having explored over 16 countries (including the UK, USA, and Italy Assisi/Rome), I deeply resonate with the hearts of travelers. Whether you’re a history buff or a casual explorer, I close cultural gaps with ease and insightful storytelling.

• Premium Comfort: Travel in a brand-new 2025 Hyundai Staria Hybrid Van, ensuring a quiet, eco-friendly, and smooth journey.

■ My Philosophy

A great tour is a balance of insight, laughter, and personal connection. I use curated laminated cards for clarity, but my passion is making your trip unforgettable.

Beyond Seoul, I specialize in multi-day journeys to Gyeongju, Andong, and Busan. Let’s discover the real Korea together!

Sincerely,

Andy

[Qualification/License]:

Official English interpreting tourist guide (Korea Tourism Organization)

Korean History Evaluation Test 1st Grade certificate. (The highest level)

Driver's license(Sedan and Van)

[Academic background]:

Master's degree (Business & Administration)

Bachelor's degree (engineering chemical dept.)

Reviews

Kate F.

5 / 5

Jan 19, 2026

[Expert Historian] Suwon Hwaseong (UNESCO) & Folk Village Tour

Jan 19, 2026

Gyeonggi

9 hours

“Amazing Andy”

Andy P. has excellent knowledge of Korean history and world events. He is a great communicator, answered all our questions, and helped us to better understand Korean culture. The tour was very well organized. Unfortunately due to cold January weather many demonstrations at the Folk Village were not running but Andy was able to give insightful background information.

Andy P.

Hi Kate, thank you so much for your heartwarming review. To be honest, it was I who felt lucky to meet such a gentle and wonderful family like yours. Your keen interest in Korean culture and our deep conversations made the day truly special for me as well. Even though the weather was cold, your family's warmth made the tour a memorable one. I often reflect on my own life through the great people I meet, and your family gave me much to think about. I sincerely wish you and your family health, peace, and many more beautiful adventures. Please enjoy more Korean cultures. You are always welcome back to Korea!

Jeanette A.

5 / 5

Nov 20, 2025

7 days tour of The Greater Seoul

Nov 20, 2025

Seoul

7 days

Customized

“My tour with Andy P.”

Having done many overseas trips with different guides I found my best experience was with Andy. His attention to you always was kind, caring attentive & made you feel safe. his knowledge on the history, navigation etc about Sth. Korea was amazing. So with confidence when planning a trip to Sth. Korea & you need a Private guide I highly recommend him. Many thanks Andy for all your help & making my trip to Sth. Korea a great one, it will always be a good memory. Jeanette.

Andy P.

I'm so grateful for your compliments and for telling me it was a wonderful trip. I truly enjoyed the time with you too. Thank you again for your kindness and consideration. I wish you good health and peace. I will remain the same for the future. Cheers!! ^^

Nicola G.

5 / 5

Oct 26, 2025

Deep insight of Korea

Oct 26, 2025

Seoul

7 hours 30 mins

Customized

“Wonderful day with Andy”

We booked a last-minute tour with Andy, and he went above and beyond to make it an unforgettable experience. After we mentioned a few areas we were interested in, Andy promptly met us at our hotel—right on time—and took care of everything from there. He began by giving us a small booklet with the history of Korea and guided us through an incredible journey into the country’s past. We spent many hours together visiting historical sites, including the palace, and throughout the day he shared fascinating insights about Korean history, culture, and religion. His deep knowledge, combined with his experiences around the world, allowed him to draw thoughtful comparisons across different religions and cultures, which we found truly valuable. Andy was kind, diligent, and personable. He gave us great local tips, helped us buy ginseng, joined us for a casual meal at a convenience store, and even took many great photos of us along the way. We had a lot of fun and learned so much. We highly recommend Andy to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, engaging, and caring guide in Korea!

Andy P.

I also had a truly wonderful time with you all. I could catch your passion to learn about Korean history, culture, and religion, and I am truly grateful for that. I hope you experience Korea more deeply and create wonderful memories during the remainder of your trip. And wish you guys happiness! Cheers!