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GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!
Seoul Private Tour -
Seoul Private Tour -
Seoul Private Tour -
Seoul Private Tour -
Seoul Private Tour -
Seoul Private Tour -
Seoul Private Tour -
Seoul Private Tour -
Seoul Private Tour -

Where Tradition Meets Innovation: From Changdeokgung to DDP

Art, Culture, & Historical
Seoul Tour Guide - Alice K.

Joined 2024

Alice K.
5.00 / 5
(15 reviews)
Identity Verified
Interview-Based Quality Checks
Seoul
English, Korean (Native), Japanese
9 hours
Private tour (only you and Alice K.)
Up to 4 people

A Perfect Seoul Tour Blending Tradition and Modernity.

Experience the past, present, and future of Korea by exploring Jongmyo, a site preserving deep traditions, and DDP, an representing cutting-edge technology.

Jongmyo & Changdeokgung Palace: Visit to these UNESCO World Heritage-

Bukchon Hanok Village: Stroll traditional hanok houses

DDP : futuristic architectural landmark where modern art and design coexist.

Myeongdong Street: Enjoy most famous shopping and food destinations.

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

08:00 AM

Meeting Point

At customer's Hotel

- At Hotel Lobby

09:30 AM

Jongmyo Shrine, the Sacred Heart of the Joseon Dynasty

Hidden in the heart of Seoul, Jongmyo Shrine is not just a historical site—it’s a living legacy of Korea’s royal past. This sacred sanctuary, built in 1394, enshrines the spirits of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). It is one of the oldest and most authentic Confucian royal shrines in the world, offering a rare glimpse into the solemn traditions of Korea’s past.

In 1995, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Are you ready to witness the whispers of the past in this sacred royal sanctuary?

11:00 AM

Changdeokgung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace, the most beloved palace of the Joseon kings, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.


Unlike Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung was designed in harmony with the natural landscape, following an asymmetrical layout that maximizes the existing terrain.

The buildings are arranged along the curves of the mountains rather than in rigid straight lines, emphasizing graceful curves over artificial symmetry.

This design highlights the beauty of nature while seamlessly integrating it with architecture.

The Huwon (Secret Garden), once an exclusive retreat for the king and the royal family, was designed to preserve the natural topography, creating a tranquil and secluded haven.

Changdeokgung is often regarded as "the most nature-friendly palace of the Joseon Dynasty", embodying the perfect balance between architecture and the natural world.

01:30 PM

Step into a Time Capsule: Bukchon Hanok Village

Tucked away between the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village offers a rare opportunity to walk through living history. Here, rows of beautifully preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses) line the narrow alleyways, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that transports visitors back to the days of the Joseon Dynasty.

Often called a “living street museum,” Bukchon is not just a place to see — it’s a place to feel. The name “Bukchon” (North Village) reflects its location north of Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno, but more than that, it tells the story of a prestigious neighborhood where Korea’s noble class, the yangban, once resided, drawn by its closeness to the royal palaces.

As you wander through its charming lanes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by tiled rooftops, wooden lattices, and the quiet hum of everyday life—a delightful blend of history and modern culture. Lose yourself in the maze of hanok, and discover why Bukchon remains one of Seoul’s most captivating hidden gems.

03:00 PM

DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) – Where the Future Meets Creativity

Imagine stepping into a scene from a sci-fi movie—DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) isn’t just a landmark, it’s an experience. This futuristic masterpiece, designed by the legendary architect Zaha Hadid, feels like a spaceship that has landed in the heart of Seoul. Its flowing curves and glowing nightscape make it one of the most photographed places in the city.


Since its grand opening on March 21, 2014, DDP has been the epicenter of innovation, hosting world-class exhibitions, fashion shows, and product launches. From Seoul Fashion Week and MAMA (Mnet Asian Music Awards) to exclusive BTS exhibitions, every event here is a spectacle.


But DDP isn’t just for the elite—it’s a place where anyone can dream, design, and play. Whether you’re admiring its iconic architecture, catching a cutting-edge exhibition, or simply soaking in the neon-lit skyline, this is one Seoul experience you don’t want to miss.


Ready for a journey into the future? DDP is waiting.

04:00 PM

Myeongdong Street – Seoul’s Fashion Playground

Myeongdong isn’t just a shopping district; it’s a bustling fashion playground where trends come to life. Stretching about 1 kilometer from Myeongdong Station (Line 4) to Euljiro and Lotte Department Store, this vibrant area offers a feast for the eyes and senses.

Here, you’ll find a blend of global brands, trendy boutiques, and high-end department stores all packed into one exciting space. Myeongdong is renowned as the ultimate fashion hub, offering everything from stylish clothing and chic footwear to statement accessories. Unlike Namdaemun or Dongdaemun, Myeongdong features a more refined selection of premium brands.

But it’s not just about shopping. Myeongdong is also a paradise for food lovers and entertainment seekers. You can’t visit without trying Myeongdong’s famous pork cutlet and the iconic Kalguksu (Myeongdong Kyoja), a noodle dish that has been beloved by locals for generations.

Don’t forget to explore Myeongdong’s unique attractions, including the stunning Myeongdong Cathedral, the vibrant Myeongdong Arts Theater, and the charming Myeongdong Jaemi-ro street.

Ending Point

At Hotel (Starting Point)

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

What‘s included

Private tour

Professional Tour Guide

Public transportation card (subway)

What‘s not included

Travel Insurance

Gratuities

Anything not mentioned in details

Lunch

Entrance fee (total 3$)

Tour Important Information

This package is not available on Monday.

The Secret Garden of Changdeokgung Palace requires an advance reservation. (If you want, send me a message.)

There is an additional fee of $4 (one person) to visit the Secret Garden.

It don't operate on Mondays.

Important message from the supplier

I can drive my own car to make customers comfortable.

My house is close to Incheon Airport.

I can pick up at Incheon Airport and take you to the hotel in my car.

When needed, I can invite a professional photographer to take photos.

I love history and travel.

So, I will make my customers' trips valuable.

In our country with distinct four seasons, I can guide joyfully at any time.

I lived in Gyeongju for a long time when I was young. I know a lot about Gyeongju.

I've traveled to Jeju Island dozens of times. I have a lot of knowledge about Jeju Island.

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
Seoul Tour Guide - Alice K.

Joined 2024

Alice K.
5.00 / 5
(15 reviews)
Identity Verified
Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Alice K.

Hello! I am Alice.

I live in Incheon, South Korea. It's very close to Seoul.

I want to guide my clients through the charming city of Seoul.

Especially when introducing the five grand palaces of Seoul, I would like to invite a professional photographer to capture beautiful moments.

I can help them dress in hanbok and create stunning life shots.

I also want to guide them through Kyeongju, a city that breathes with a long history. I lived in Kyeongju until my teenage years.

I want to introduce UNESCO-listed Kyeongju, a city of culture and history.

I have traveled to Jeju Island more than several ten times. I also want to introduce Jeju Island.

My clients can go anywhere they want in South Korea.

There are many well-preserved cultural heritage sites with a long history in Korea, and they can also experience the convenience of fast-developing Seoul.

Come and visit Korea. Let's explore Seoul and travel together anywhere.

Traveling in Korea will be a memorable and cherished experience.

Best regards. Alice.

Reviews

I did not mind the 12 hr layover!

Such a great experience during my ICN layover. I had never been to Korea before so what better way to spend those layover hours! I was a lone traveler and with Alice I felt comfortable and we did so much in 8 hrs! We could have done more but I was tired from 2 weeks travel. Alice was very knowledgeable on Korean history and added a special touch to the tour! I even had the chance to blend in with the locals and experience Korean culture. We enjoyed an authentic Korean lunch - the day was such a pleasant experience!

Lizzette S.

Alice K.

Hello Lizzette!! You already left a review. Thank you so much. The review is truly a valuable asset for me. After traveling for two weeks and visiting here, you must have been very tired. Still, thank you for enjoying the trip together with me. I hope you can rest well and sleep comfortably during the long flight back. I look forward to you visiting Korea someday with your family. If we meet again then, it would be such a pleasure. Have a safe and pleasant journey. Best regards. From Alice.

Coexistence of tradition and modernity

Alice tour shows the coexistence of tradition and modernity as a dynamic and ongoing process. It requires a willingness to adapt, to find common ground, and to appreciate the value of both the past and the present. In this tour you will experience both cultural heritage through gastronomy, traditional architecture and an "amazing tomorrow", all in one. I also want to thank Alice for her kindness and patience in showing me how to navigate the subway. It was such a thoughtful thing to do.

Sofia C.

Alice K.

Hello Sofia!! Since you have traveled to many countries and cities, I believe you will do well on your own in Seoul. Still, today I shared some tips with you for traveling alone in Seoul. I hope your trip will be filled with comfort and joy. If you encounter any questions or difficulties while traveling, please let me know. I will gladly guide and help you. Seoul is a wonderful city with beautiful places, lush forests, delicious food, and a rich heritage of long-standing traditions. I hope you can fully experience and appreciate all of it. Best Regards. From Alice.

A refreshing trip

Although the excursion involves a two-and-a-half-hour drive there and the same amount of time on the way back, I don't regret at all having started my stay in Seoul with this fantastic excursion to the East Coast of the South Korean peninsula. This trip combines history, scenery, and flavor. Alice's tour is skillfully organized, entertaining, and refreshing. In fact, I booked her for two more tours before leaving. I love her "guiding style". Thank you so much, Alice. I thoroughly enjoyed the day.

Sofia C.

Alice K.

Hello Sofia!! Thank you so much for leaving me such a wonderful review. I truly enjoyed traveling around beautiful Gangneung with you. You enjoyed the food I recommended, and you have such a remarkable way of seeing the world beautifully. You are an exceptional guest who can speak four languages fluently. With your positive outlook on life and your willingness to always stand up for what is right, you truly seem like a leader of our time. I hope you enjoy the rest of your trip as well. Best Regards. From Alice.

Want to Personalize?

$320/ per group

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