/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/f54e9f07-20e5-4ee9-b9e1-e28ba0b3d237.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/69b2014b-bf06-47a0-a735-bf15fcb72fde.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/e6f6d6bb-8608-468a-8593-ed86eeb36c5c.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/c85b72c5-e4eb-4bce-b789-d82199a894cb.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/ffa905cb-c727-445f-a5ac-d3fea685e8e7.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/86b17748-fda8-400e-b98f-58eb14c42dfd.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/16efd488-764f-4bea-a1b4-8604d1ac15ea.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/3e2fe3f4-0226-4032-baf7-71cd276f20fb.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/a0688d07-d54c-49cc-96a4-b2fd70f51995.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/7d196cda-0678-4c8b-a549-11e90d0b680c.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/f6ec30c9-47cd-437e-a1b0-4c3ca9548b56.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/17a2db6c-b4c2-48b7-a785-2314e4f1feb5.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17464/7d0b0d6d-54b6-4c78-b3e5-4c4b6b4120d0.jpg)
Religion (Catholic) experience with local guide
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/66005/256759bf-e0dc-4d2a-a953-15d48bea709c.png)
Joined 2025
This tour will give you a chance to experience Catholic religious activities together with native Korean and understand the history of Catholic in Korean society. If you want, even you can attend Catholic mass together with me.
You will feel how the Korean catholic believers were struggling to keep the religion and what lead them to sacrifice of their lives.
You will also get some general understanding of Korean religion activities such as Catholic, Buddhism and Protestant.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At the lobby of your Hotel
- At the lobby of your Hotel where the front desk is located.
Yakhyen Catholic Church
You will visit Yakhyeon cathedral, the 1st western bricks Gothic style cathedral built in Korea in 1892. And, you can enter the exibition hall of martyr site.
You can attend the mass here If you want.
Seosomun shrine history museum & Seosomun history park
You will visit Seosomun shrine history museum and Seosomun history park where heads of many catholic believers were cut in 19th century during Joseon kingdom.
Year 1984 was the 200th anniversary of the Catholic Church in Korea. At that time, Pope John Paul II visited Korea, and 44 martyrs were canonized.
You can learn about the history of Catholicism in Korea at the museum, and there is a cathedral named after one of the Korean saints.
Seosomun Historical Park has a monument to martyrs and a well where the swords used to execute martyrs were washed.
Myeongdong shopping area
The Myeongdong area is basically known as a very popular shopping area. However, this area was actually the starting point of the Catholic Church in Korea.
You can enjoy walking at the shopping alleys at Myeongdong and getting some stuff if you want. There are cosmetics, suveniors, clothes, glasses, shoes, street foods and etcetera.
Myeongdong Cathedral
Myeongdong Cathedral is a bishop's cathedral completed in 1898. It is a completely Gothic cathedral in the Western style. The remains of martyrs are enshrined in the basement, including the remains of three French priests from the early days of Catholicism in Korea.
Considering time spent and your next destination, our tour can be finished either at your Hotel or here.
Ending Point
Myeongdong Cathedral
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
Guide fee
Private car for transportation (Hyundai Staria Hybrid Van, March 2025)
Fuel cost
Parking fee
Toll fee
* meal & drinks
* Travelers' Insurance (please subscribe it for you by yourself)
Tour Important Information
Depending on the mass schedule each cathedral, the order of the tour could change accordingly.
Seosomun shrine history museum closes January 1, Lunar newyear day(January 29 in case of 2025), Chuseok (Thanks giving day in Korea, October 6 in csse of 2025) and every Monday.
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
About Tour Guide Andy P.
I was born and raised in Seoul and completed my graduate studies here. Before becoming a tour guide, I spent many years working in the petrochemical divisions of major Korean conglomerates, developing international business projects and living as an expatriate in Indonesia and Vietnam for nearly a decade.
These experiences taught me how cultures interpret the world differently—and how meaningful communication can bridge those differences.
Over time, my passion for history, people, and storytelling grew stronger. I immersed myself in Korean history, reading extensively and studying how society, belief systems, and human relationships have evolved. This has shaped my guiding philosophy: a memorable journey comes from not only where you go, but who guides you through it.
My aim is to offer travelers an experience that is insightful, balanced, and grounded in real Korean perspectives.
Since obtaining my official tour guide certification in 2018, I’ve received many heartfelt reviews from travelers worldwide. One guest wrote:
> “Our guide Andy was exceptional. His deep knowledge of history and culture, paired with engaging storytelling, brought each site to life. His passion made our trip truly unforgettable.”
With me, you won’t just visit Korea—you’ll understand it. You’ll see the country through the eyes of someone who has lived its history, appreciates its complexities, and can connect it to the wider world with clarity and nuance.
I offer customized multi-day tours to Andong, Gyeongju, Busan, and other regions, tailored to your interests. Please contact me!
Sincerely,
Andy
*Qualification/License :
Official English interpreting tourist guide (Korea Tourism Organization)
Korean History Evaluation Test 1st Grade certificate.
Driver's license(Sedan and Van)
*Academic background :
Master degree (Business & Administration)
Bachelor's degree (engineering chemical dept.)
Reviews
Jeanette A.
“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.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/66005/256759bf-e0dc-4d2a-a953-15d48bea709c.png)
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.
“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!
Howard P.
“Seoul Guided Tour”
Andy was incredibly knowledgeable & accommodated what we wanted to see & do perfectly, but more importantly his enthusiasm energy & care he took to make sure we had a great time was second to none. I can’t recommend him highly enough, he’s a great guide & great guy. Thanks Andy for a great day in Seoul & Incheon. Howard & Heather
Andy P.
Thank you for the time sharing with me. I really enjoyed the timw with you. I Hope that you will have wonderful and unforgetable memories from your cruise trip! And, cheers all the best including your good health and happiness. Andy
$400/ per group
More tours by Andy P.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17457/824af7bf-3034-4d1d-bc15-f8fb5cb2d499.jpg)
Gangbuk Seoul (Northern district of Hangang River in Seoul) one day tour
I was born in Seoul, studied in Seoul until graduate school, and worked in Seoul for a long time. You can gain essential knowledge about Seoul and Korean history and culture in one day. You can ask me anything about Korea!! I have the answers! ^^ This is the highlight to cover the traditional district in Seoul(called "Gangbuk").
Gangbuk Seoul (Northern district of Hangang River in Seoul) one day tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17800/d3a79a1f-06ea-4963-8ea7-3b7d4e08b363.jpg)
UNESCO Hwaseong Fortress & Korean Folk Village
There are two must-see places in Suwon when visiting Korea. Suwon is about an hour away from Seoul by car. First, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress was built in late 18th century. The fortress is registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. You must see the traditional Korean martial arts performances here, too. At the Korean Folk Village, you can see traditional houses of 600 years ago, local government buildings, blacksmith work shops, watermills, village protecting tree, and handicraft workshops.
UNESCO Hwaseong Fortress & Korean Folk Village
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19433/5a784092-4de7-4188-8014-b6b1de0fc760.jpg)
Shore Excursion from Incheon - DMZ(De-Militarized Zone) Course
If you have only one day to travel, sign up for my tour. I will pick you up at Incheon International Cruise Terminal and safely take you to the ship before the ship's departure time. Want to learn about North Korea? Want to gain insight into inter-Korean relations? It has been 80 years since Korea was divided. How have the South and the North been? I was born in Seoul, studied in Seoul until graduate school, and worked in Seoul for a long time. I have all the answers. Come with me!
Shore Excursion from Incheon - DMZ(De-Militarized Zone) Course
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17474/f9cdbe82-42f4-4666-94de-b48acd7cd4b5.jpg)
Pilgrimage of K-Pop entertainment companies
If you are K-pop fans, why don't you visit the major 4 K-pop entertainment enterprises buildings! It will remain a good memory for you when you are back home later. The journey to the buildings will give you pleasant times. The major 4 are YG, HYBE, SM and JYP. You can take photos in front of the building and enjoy drinks at cafes in front of the buildings. For BTS's fan, ex-HYBE building, a BTS restaurant so called, and their ex-dormitory house currently being used as a bakery & cafe.
Pilgrimage of K-Pop entertainment companies
Other Popular Car Tour (driving guide) Tours in Seoul
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17871/e04ee1c6-433c-4d7e-b453-e3fcc9d8a2fa.jpg)
Nami Island, Petite France, Pinocchio & Da vinci tour
This is picturesque island located in Chuncheon, which is famous for its natural beauty and filming location for the Korean drama "Winter,Sonata". You will also visit the French and Italian style villages near by, and enjoy exotic atmosphere.
Nami Island, Petite France, Pinocchio & Da vinci tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/68406/759b193c-ce99-45f8-95c7-3a9e940f15ad.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/16841/fd2a10a5-2976-4ca2-86b3-a90ae0f242b2.jpg)
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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/63573/27605598-37fd-4a45-b8b8-15af92ab49bf.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18332/571b377b-89bf-47ff-938e-0e8b83017402.jpg)
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
/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/6816/110391.jpeg)
Seoul One-Day Private Tour & Free Photography Service – Capture Your Special Moments!
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!
Seoul One-Day Private Tour & Free Photography Service – Capture Your Special Moments!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/32992/84f196d0-65c7-456d-98a2-98c0a4c9b597.png)