I don't recommend day-trips to the DMZ -- the JSA remains off-limits due to North Korean policy, and anyway most of what you see is just barbed-wire fences and various monuments; a trip there does not give insight into North Korea nor about the 1950-53 war. The long trip driving up there & back is not worth your precious time. There is a very good alternative, which is this gigantic compound in the middle of Seoul -- a large museum of the Korean war & outdoor display of weaponry from that era.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
your hotel, or a metro subway station exit
- It is in southern downtown Seoul, the Yongsan District, near the Samgakji metro subway station.
Entering Museum
we meet at hotel or elsewhere, get to the museum and walk in past the several large front monuments.
Korean War Museum
We tour through the Korean War Museum and the spiritual memorial, with my detailed explanations and colorful storytelling.
The Outdoor Weaponry Lot
We walk all through their amazing collection of tanks, artillery, planes and war-boats that were actually used in that era by all sides, with my commentary.
Extension -- History of Warfare in Korea
If you wish to extend the tour for a small extra cost, perhaps after getting a lunch or snack, we will visit the extensive exhibit-halls of the entire History of Warfare on the Korean Peninsula, from ancient days through the 19th century.
Ending Point
Museum Exit, or back at your hotel, or a lunch/dinner site
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
guide fee, hotel meet-up, only.
there is no admission fee.
transportation fees, lunch, drinks, or other misc. purchases.
It is closed on Mondays.
I do this full-time now, any day -- but only in Spring & Autumn.
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!
Kerry B.
“Packed with information ”
What a wonderful time we had with David. The tour was packed with information about the foundations of South Korea and what has lead it to being what it is today. We saw the normal tourist stuff but it was with a personal twist. Thanks so much David see you next time
David a. M.
Thanks, Kerry! I really enjoyed showing your group around; such interested learners. I do hope you come back someday soon, for more & deeper! David
Alfonso S.
“An American professor with enormous experience ”
David has been an incredible guide for our three days we stay in Seoul, where he took us through deep experiences and teachings about this incredible nation and resilience. His vast knowledge and decades residing in Korea, has given him such acknowledge that made him become a professor and writer of several books about Korean people. Don't tho k twice to hire him as your guide in Korea.
David a. M.
Thanks for the kind words, Alfonso -- I really enjoyed showing your family around! I hope that you all return to Korea someday.... :-) David
Rocío B.
“All you need to know about Seul”
David was a perfect guide that answered all our questions about Seul. Took us to the nicest places and show us really special ones. We are glad Elle could be our guide! Thanks David.
David a. M.
I really enjoyed guiding your group, and am glad you got so much value out of these tours. I hope you return to Korea for more, someday! David
$345/ per group