Korean Tradition & Modernity: Korea Folk Village, Hwaseong Fortress & Starfield Library
Joined 2022
Firstly, explore Korea's cultural richness at the Korean Folk Village! Immerse yourself in traditional life, ancient customs, vibrant performances, and authentic architecture. A captivating journey awaits!
Secondly, step into history at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress! A UNESCO World Heritage site, it's a marvel of Korean architecture. Majestic walls, gates, and pavilions tell the story of Korea's past.
Lastly, you can explore the recently opened Suwon Starfield Library, a marvel in scale and design.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel or any designated place (in Seoul)
Korea Folk Village
Embark on a captivating journey into Korea's rich cultural tapestry at the Korean Folk Village. This living museum beautifully preserves the essence of traditional Korean life, offering a delightful blend of ancient customs, vibrant performances, and authentic architecture. Immerse yourself in the charm of a bygone era, where each step unveils the beauty of Korea's heritage. From ancient customs to dynamic cultural displays, every step is a journey through the centuries, offering a magical encounter with the soul of Korea's past. Come and discover the beauty that transcends time at the Korean Folk Village!
Lunch
Experience authentic Korean traditional foods at the restaurants within the Korean Folk Village, or explore a diverse range of cuisines based on customers' preferences.
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, located in Suwon, South Korea, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its architectural brilliance and historical significance. Constructed during the late 18th century by King Jeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty, this majestic fortress encompasses impressive walls, gates, and pavilions, spanning approximately 5.7 kilometers in length. Designed as a defensive structure and to serve as a tribute to the king's filial piety, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is a prime example of traditional Korean military architecture.
Visitors can explore its intricate design, picturesque scenery, and learn about its cultural importance through guided tours and cultural performances held within its grounds.
Suwon Starfield Library
The Suwon Starfield Library is a modern architectural marvel located in Suwon, South Korea. Opened recently, this state-of-the-art library boasts a stunning design and an extensive collection of books and multimedia resources. Its spacious interior features towering bookshelves arranged in a circular fashion, creating a visually striking and inviting atmosphere for visitors. Equipped with comfortable seating areas, study spaces, and reading books, the library offers a welcoming environment for individuals of all ages to explore, read, and learn. With its innovative design and diverse range of resources, the Suwon Starfield Library has quickly become a cultural hub and a must-visit destination for book lovers.
Back in Seoul
Ending Point
At your hotel or any designated place (in Seoul)
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
Guiding fee
Free transportation (11 seater KIA Carnival)
Fuel, toll, parking
Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off
Entrance Fees
Lunch
Traveler's Insurance
Tour Important Information
Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
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 2022
About Tour Guide 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.
Reviews
Sarah J.
“An Unforgettable DMZ Tour with Kevin”
Our DMZ tour with Kevin was a great experience, and we couldn't have asked for a better guide. From start to finish, Kevin was knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate about sharing the history of the Korean War and the significance of the DMZ. The descent into one of the 4 tunnels underneath the DMZ was spine tingling. Visiting the war memorial for the Gloucestershire Battalion was a particularly moving experience, and Kevin’s explanations helped us truly appreciate the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought alongside the South Koreans. The final stop at the Gamaksan Suspension Bridge was a perfect way to end the day, offering breathtaking views and a moment to reflect on the historical journey we had just experienced. If you're looking for a well-rounded and insightful DMZ tour, we highly recommend Kevin!
Kevin L.
Thank you so much for your incredibly detailed and thoughtful feedback, as well as your touching words of praise. I’ll continue doing my best to provide even better service in the future.
Sarah J.
“Seoul City Tour: A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Modernity”
From the historical grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the modern charm of N Seoul Tower, Kevin’s tour gave a perfect snapshot of Seoul’s rich heritage and dynamic culture. The first stop on the tour was Gyeongbokgung Palace, and it truly set the tone for the day. The sheer scale and beauty of the palace are breathtaking, and the detailed architecture reflects Korea’s royal history. Watching the changing of the guard ceremony was a particular highlight, offering a glimpse into the traditions that have been maintained over centuries. Bukchon Hanok Village is a charming neighbourhood where traditional Korean hanok houses are still lived in today. Insadong was our next stop, and it was an exciting blend of the old and new. The bustling streets are lined with art galleries, traditional tea houses, antique shops, and contemporary boutiques. One of the most unforgettable parts of the tour was a visit to N Seoul Tower, perched atop Namsan Mountain. The panoramic views of Seoul from the observation deck were amazing, giving us a sense of how vast and diverse the city really is. To wrap up the day, we headed to Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul’s oldest and most famous traditional markets. The atmosphere was vibrant, with friendly vendors offering samples of their goods. Kevin was a great help in steering us towards what local delicacies to try. Kevin put together a Seoul City Tour that provided an enriching and well-rounded experience of the city, showcasing everything from its royal history to its lively street markets. He created a tour that balanced both cultural exploration and modern attractions. We highly recommend this tour with Kevin.
Kevin L.
I truly appreciate your detailed and thoughtful feedback for each place. It was a real pleasure and an honor to guide such a kind and lovely couple—thank you so much.
Sarah J.
“Great Tour Blending Korean Tradition & Modernity”
We had an lovely experience on the Korean Tradition & Modernity tour in Seoul, thanks to Kevin. The Korean Folk Village was a wonderful glimpse into Korea’s heritage, and Kevin provided insights into traditional Korean life and customs. Hwaseong Fortress was equally impressive. To top it all off, the visit to Starfield Library was a perfect example of modern Korea’s innovation and beauty. If you’re looking for a well-balanced tour that showcases both Korea’s deep traditions and modern wonders, this is a must! Thank you again for the experience!
Kevin L.
Hello, I'm truly grateful to hear that you had a great trip. Thank you so much for your heartfelt and meaningful feedback—it really touched me.
$340/ per group
More tours by Kevin L.
Seoul City Tour-Korea
Seoul has been the capital for more than 600 years from the establishment of the Joseon Dynasty in the late 14th century to the present. Divided by the Han River, Seoul is adorned with many historical treasures such as royal palaces, fortress walls, traditional village, traditional markets, and modern architectural marvels like Lotte World Tower, Trade Tower. Seoul truly embodies the charm of coexisting past and present. It also serves as the birthplace of K-POP and Korean wave(Hallyu).
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.
Nami Island+Rail Bike+Garden of Morning Calm(Greater Seoul)
If driving out of Seoul for about 1~2 hours, you'll arrive at Nami Island, which resembles a floating leaf on a lake. Renowned as the filming location for "Winter Sonata," it's a place where people, animals, and trees share peace and love. The Rail Bike offers another delightful experience, allowing you to create lasting memories amidst this natural beauty. Garden of Morning Calm, nestled on the lush slopes of the mountain, offers a wonderful setting for a leisurly stroll in harmony with nature.
Marvel of Nature: Hiking in Bukhansan Mountain National Park
Another charm of Seoul is it is surrounded by beautiful mountains, providing excellent accessibility for hiking. Among them, Bukhansan mountain is one of the most favorite destination for Seoulites seeking hiking and trekking adventures. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to experience Buddhist temples along the trail. Lastly, enjoying pajeon(green onion pancake) and makgeolli(Rice wine) as a post-hiking tradition among Koreans helps alleviate the fatigue from the mountain excursion.
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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.
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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'.
Seoul Layover Private Incheon tour from Airport
Will you go straight to the hotel upon arrival at Incheon Airport? By applying for this product, we will safely take you from Incheon airport to your destination hotel. Before heading to the hotel, stop by Incheon to experience Korea's development story. Lastly, don't miss Songdo Triple Street, a favorite spot for young people. [If you request. the itinerary can be changed.] * This itinerary is subject to change at the request of the client.
