Seoul City Tour-Korea
Joined 2022
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).
Itinerary
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
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
> 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.
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
Richard W.
“Tour with Kevin L”
We've just got back from a tour with Kevin and we enjoyed every minute of it. He makes you feel very welcome in Seoul and knows loads about the city making an excellent day out and one guide i 100% recommend if you're coming to this amazing city
Kevin L.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm truly happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour — it was a real pleasure showing you around Seoul. I hope you take wonderful memories back home, and I’d love to see you again if you ever return to this amazing city! Thank you very much again!
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.
$300/ per group
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