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).
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace+Gate Guard Changing Ceremony
Gyeongbokgung Palace was the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty. The Joseon Dynasty was the last dynasty in Korean history, founded in 1392 and lasted until 1910. Gyeongbokgung Palace was established in 1395, following the foundation of the Joseon Dynasty in 1392. It is also known as the 'Northern Palace' because it is located further north compared to Changdeokgung Palace (the Eastern Palace) and Gyeonghuigung Palace (the Western Palace). There were five royal palaces during the Joseon Dynasty. Among them, Gyeongbokgung Palace takes pride in being the largest in scale and the most beautiful. 'Gyeongbok' means 'The new dynasty will be greatly blessed and prosperous' In addition, you can also have the opportunity to observe the gate guard changing ceremony taking place twice a day, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Buckchon Hanok Village(Northern Traditional House Village)
Bukchon Hanok Village is situated between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace (the secondary palace), and its streets are lined with traditional houses. Here, hundreds of houses sit shoulder to shoulder. The name "Bukchon," which literally translates to "northern village," originated because the neighborhood is located to the north of two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno. During the Joseon Dynasty, it served as an exclusive residential area for high-ranking court officials and nobility due to its strategic position between the two royal palaces.
However, these houses are not the ones that were inhabited by dignitaries during the Joseon Dynasty. They were remodeled during the period from 1920 to 1930 due to a significant influx of people to Seoul, many of whom were Japanese individuals seeking new opportunities during the Japanese Occupation period.
One noteworthy aspect of this village is that it was not created as a tourist attraction. Instead, Bukchon Hanok Village is a residential neighborhood where people actually live. Therefore, visitors are kindly requested to explore the area quietly, preserving the tranquility of the residents.
Insadong + Lunch at traditioal restaurant
Insa-dong, the name of the location, has occupied the very center of Seoul for the past 600 years, since the Joseon dynasty. Many historically famous officials and scholars lived here due to its proximity to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace. Additionally, there was a government office called ‘Dowhaseo’ responsible for artistic activities. This historical background naturally paved the way for today’s artistic district. During the Japanese colonial period, many dignitaries faced collapse, leading them to sell their furniture and antiques, which made this area famous for its antique products. Insa-dong is a place where the old and new seamlessly coexist. The main road in Insa-dong is flanked by alleys on each side. Within these alleys, you can find numerous galleries, traditional restaurants, teahouses, and cafes.
N Seoul Tower
The N Seoul Tower was established atop Namsan in 1971. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of Seoul's cityscape. The tower's name was changed from Namsan Tower to N Seoul Tower in 2005, with the "N" representing 'new,' 'Namsan,' and 'nature.'
N Seoul Tower has also gained a reputation as an auspicious place for love, making it a popular spot for couples. One of the most cherished activities at N Seoul Tower is the 'Love locks' event. In a gesture symbolizing eternal love, couples inscribe their names and wishes on a padlock and then hang it on the designated lock tree.
Gwangjang Traditional Market
Gwangang Market used to be one of the three major markets in the late Joseon dynasty, alongside Namdaemun Market and Jongno Market. Originally named Dongdaemun Market, it thrived during the 1960s-1970s, but experienced a slowdown in the 1980s due to the rise of large-scale discount stores. From the late 2000s, it has experienced a revival, thanks to the popularity of Eatery Alley, which has attracted foreign tourists. Famous foods in Gwangang Market include Yukhae (Korean-style raw beef), Sannakji (raw/live small octopus with wriggling tentacles), Mung Bean pancake, Mayak(drug)gimbap (small gimbap with mustard sauce), Makgeoli (Korean rice wine), and more. The market's second floor is filled with silk, satin, and linen products.
Taking a short walk in Cheonggyecheon Stream
Cheonggyecheon, which was a natural stream during the Joseon dynasty, has been transformed into an 11 km long modern artificial stream that runs through downtown Seoul. It was restored in 2003, reclaiming the space from traffic roads. It serves as an excellent destination for Seoul citizens to find relaxation by leisurely strolling along the stream, contributing to a harmonious balance between the bustling downtown environment and nature. Additionally, the stream offers the added benefit of providing a cooling effect, particularly appreciated during the summer season.
End of Tour
Ending Point
At your hotel
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guiding fee
Free transportation (11 seater KIA Carnival )
Fuel, toll, parking
Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off
Entrance Fees
Lunch
Traveler's Insurance
> Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed every Tuesday; therefore, an alternate palace will be visited on that day.
> The provided schedule is designed around the most popular attractions and timing, but it can be adjusted flexibly to accommodate the preferences and needs of the customers.
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.
Kenneth H.
“Seoul is jam packed with beauty and fun”
We enjoyed Kevin's services that we used him for our second day as well. We got a bigger vehicle that could hold all our luggage and us (family of 7) which he arranged in less than 24hrs. Seoul....I really wish we had more time to explore as that city is just wonderful from the grand palace, down to local markets. The grand palace, with the changing of the guard was quite a blessing to watch. We saw people dressed up everywhere in traditional wardrobe. The palace was grand, exquisite, and unique. We then saw a the north village where descendants still live in original traditional housing. Insadong showcased all the central theme of Seoul and the markets, well....that is a day just itself. There were so many shopping opportunities, just not enough time. The weather was awful but that didn't stop Kevin from ensuring we got to see all the sites. He was just wonderful both days. Ending the day, they dropped us off at the airport for our journey home. Thank you to South Korea and especially Kevin. Would highly recommend the tour.
Kevin L.
Dear Kenneth, Thank you once again for your incredibly kind and thoughtful feedback. It truly meant a lot to be able to guide you and your group for a second day in Seoul. I’m so happy to hear that everything went smoothly and left a memorable impression. Your appreciation and warm words really encourage me, and I’m grateful I could help make your time in Seoul as fulfilling as possible. It was an absolute pleasure spending those two days with your wonderful family. Thank you again for your trust, kindness, and recommendation of the tour. I truly hope to welcome you back to Korea someday for even more discoveries. Wishing you and your family continued happiness and good health! Warm regards, Kevin Lee
Kenneth H.
“Great tour, awesome guide!”
What's there to say, Kevin was a wonderful guide. He picked us up and drove to the dmz describing everything along the way. He was detailed in all aspects while guiding us through the different sites in the DMZ. We got to experience Korean "army stew". It was a long day but Kevin just kept going as long as we could. He even took us out of the way on the way back to do a little shopping. Then, even when the tour was done and my kids wanted to go back out, he offered to drive them to the place they wanted to go. He was an awesome person guide, and person. We were blessed to have him. Id recommend this tour and especially Kevin
Kevin L.
Dear Kenneth, Thank you so much for your kind and heartfelt feedback. It was truly an honor to guide you and your group during the DMZ tour. I’m so glad you enjoyed the experience — from the historical sites to the Korean army stew. It was a pleasure spending the day with such wonderful people. I’m also deeply grateful for your recommendation of the tour, and I sincerely hope to have the chance to welcome you back to Korea in the future. Wishing you and your family all the very best! Many thanks, Kevin Lee
Chen L.
“Great tour!”
Enjoyed spending the day on this tour. Kevin was both informative and flexible. Also good driver.
Kevin L.
Thank you very much for your kind feedback. It was a real pleasure spending the day with you, and I truly appreciate having had the opportunity to guide you on this tour. I’m glad to hear you enjoyed the experience. Wishing you all the best. Warm regards, Kevin Lee
$300/ per group