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South Korea Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Plan a Trip to South Korea with Local Tour Guides, and Seoul, Busan, Jeju and More.
Popular South Korea Tour Destinations
Popular South Korea Tour Guides
David a. M.
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!
Kwan J.
Hello, and welcome to Korea! My name is Kwan, and I have been an authorized tour guide with the Korean Tourism Organization (KTO) since 2019. My tour programs are designed to provide you with authentic and meaningful experiences of Korea, focusing on its rich culture, history, and traditions rather than fleeting trends. If you're looking for a leisurely and relaxed itinerary filled with captivating stories about our heritage and people, I am the guide for you! Additionally, I bring over 13 years of experience delivering exceptional service to VIP clients during my tenure at Cartier, the world-renowned jewelry brand. With this background, I ensure that your journey will be marked by an unparalleled level of care and attention.
Jae ha L.
Hi, I’m Jay, your local host in Seoul! This is a city that never fails to amaze me with its energy and beauty. From the breathtaking sunsets over the Hangang River to the vibrant streets buzzing with life, this city is full of charm and surprises. One of my favorite things to do is take in the stunning skyline from Namsan Tower – it’s a view that truly captures the spirit of Seoul. I have a deep appreciation for Seoul’s rich history and culture, and I love exploring its historic palaces, bustling local markets, and the newest hot spots around town. Whether we’re wandering through ancient landmarks or discovering trendy neighborhoods, I’ll share insights that connect Seoul’s past to its dynamic present. I’m here to make your visit fun, engaging, and memorable. Let’s explore the heart of Seoul together and uncover the city’s many stories!
Jeeseon C.
Hi! I’m Jeeseon, a licensed cultural tour guide based in Seoul. With a deep passion for Korean history, I specialize in designing private tours that are not only informative, but also warm, personal, and unforgettable. I hold multiple certifications including: Korean History Proficiency Certification Certified Korean Tour Interpreter Guide TESOL, Phonics, and English Reading Instruction Certifications Children's History & Cultural Education Instructor Over the past several years, I’ve taught Korean to travelers from all over the world—focusing on real-life expressions and practical cultural understanding. I’ve also guided guests through palaces, temples, hanok villages, traditional markets, and Seoul’s lesser-known local neighborhoods. Many of my guests say it feels like exploring the city with a thoughtful local friend. My tours are ideal for curious travelers who want more than just sightseeing. I specialize in: Korean history and culture storytelling Practical Hangul learning experiences Hidden gem exploration for repeat travelers Food, language, and everyday life experiences
New South Korea Tour Guides
Peter P.
Hello! My name is Peter, and I’m a licensed tour guide based in South Korea. I specialize in sharing Korea’s rich history, culture, and hidden gems with travelers from all around the world. With a mix of storytelling, humor, and local insight, I aim to make each tour not just informative, but truly memorable. Whether you're visiting royal palaces, scenic hiking trails, foodie spots, or modern neighborhoods, I’ll help you see Korea through the eyes of a local. Let’s explore together and have some fun along the way!
Sally K.
I am a government-certified tour guide, showcasing popular tourist attractions, breathtaking scenic spots, and hidden gems across Seoul and other major cities in Korea since 2018. I am passionate about sharing insights into Korean history, culture, traditions, food, politics, inter-Korean relations, and modern social trends. I truly value building genuine connections and intimacy with my guests. By creating a warm and engaging atmosphere during the tour, I promise you a joyful, meaningful, and unforgettable experience during your stay in Korea.
Ej K.
Hello! My name is EJ, a local tour guide based in the beautiful coastal city of Yeosu, South Korea. With a deep love for my hometown and years of experience in guiding, I specialize in crafting immersive travel experiences that reveal the soul of Yeosu and the wider Jeollanam-do region. My goal is simple: to help you connect with Korea beyond the surface—through nature, food, history, and local encounters. I speak English, and I’m always happy to adapt tours to your interests or pace. Let me show you a side of Yeosu you might never find on your own. I look forward to exploring with you!
Daniel K.
Hi! I'm Daniel, your tour guide in Korea. I was born and raised in Korea and studied and lived in America for a long time. I have a Korean official tour guide license and have guided many foreign tourists for many years. I will help you feel closer to many of Korea's historical sites, relics, and hidden local spots to keep them as precious memories. I always enjoy guiding every tourist with my best hospitality. See you soon. P.S.: We have two colleagues who may lead tours when I'm not available. Franky Yi & Kacy Jang also have 18 years of licensed tour guide experience.
Popular South Korea Private Tours
Full-day Intro to Seoul and Korean History
Full-day Intro to Seoul and Korean History
K-Food Trip Version 1: Black-bean noodle & Marinated blue-crab in Incheon
K-Food Trip Version 1: Black-bean noodle & Marinated blue-crab in Incheon
Seoul Downtown Walking Tour - the past and the present
Seoul Downtown Walking Tour - the past and the present
Evening Walk: Street Food, Hidden Alleys & a Glowing Palace
Evening Walk: Street Food, Hidden Alleys & a Glowing Palace
New South Korea Private Tours
A Serene Morning Walk in the Royal Palace and Garden
A Serene Morning Walk in the Royal Palace and Garden
Step Into Seoul: Where History and Modern Life Collide
Step Into Seoul: Where History and Modern Life Collide
Flavors of Seoul: A Walking Tour of Culture, Crafts & Street Food
Flavors of Seoul: A Walking Tour of Culture, Crafts & Street Food
DMZ: Witness the Last Cold War Frontier
DMZ: Witness the Last Cold War Frontier
Popular South Korea Private Cars
Private DMZ tour
Private DMZ tour
Nami Island, Petite France, Pinocchio & Da vinci tour
Nami Island, Petite France, Pinocchio & Da vinci tour
8hrs Cruise Shore Excursion - Jeju Private Sedan Taxi Tour with English Speaking Driver (up to 4pax)
8hrs Cruise Shore Excursion - Jeju Private Sedan Taxi Tour with English Speaking Driver (up to 4pax)
Airport Service: Seamless Transfers, Just for You! (Minivan 1-5 PAX)
Airport Service: Seamless Transfers, Just for You! (Minivan 1-5 PAX)
South Korea Tour Reviews
Heike R.
“Ari went Above and Beyond – Highly Recommended!”
We had an amazing experience in Seoul thanks to our incredible tour guide, Ari. Her English was excellent, and she was not only knowledgeable about Korean history and daily life but also incredibly kind and helpful throughout the entire day. Ari went above and beyond—after the tour, she helped us book train tickets and even arranged medication for us. She truly made our trip smoother and more enjoyable. A lovely, caring person and a fantastic guide—highly recommended! P.S.: Ari - if you come to London please let us know. We would love to meet you and show you our home city :)
Courtney M.
“Amazing Tour”
Kwan is the man! My son and I spent the afternoon with him. He knows the history very well - speaks excellent English and just delightful to be around. Don't pass this man up!
Kwan J.
Thank you so much for your kind review, Chris and Jake! It was truly a pleasure guiding you on the DMZ tour. Your genuine interest in Korean history inspired me to share everything I could with full passion and dedication. I really appreciated our meaningful conversations and the energy you brought to the experience. And what an awesome surprise to learn that all three of us graduated from the same college—Go Terps! That unexpected connection made our time together even more special. Hope your journey home was smooth, and may your curiosity continue leading you to fascinating places, near and far!
Blair L.
“Top-Notch Busan Tour”
Changwoo provided my five-person multigenerational family with members ages 12 through 75 with an excellent tour of Busan during our cruise's day at port in the city. Once he assessed my group was comfortable with stairs and walking at a moderate pace, he added several locations to our itinerary so that we could see more. His car was extremely comfortable for five passengers and air conditioned, which was much appreciated in the Busan summer heat. I am glad we toured with Changwoo as it would have been impossible to see so many attractions all around the city without a guide with a private car. Changwoo met us at our cruise ship terminal upon arrival, and he arranged for our return an hour before the all-aboard time so that we would not feel anxious about the timing of reboarding. Changwoo took us to "hidden gem" destinations as well as tourist highlights, provided a history of the city, and even made time for special request cosmetic shopping for my teenage daughter. We visited far more sites with Changwoo than we would have on a cruise ship excursion, simply due to being more nimble as a smaller group than on a bus of 40. Additionally, Changwoo happily took photos of my family at the various spots, which are great to add to our album! Changwoo's English is excellent, and he has an easy-going, upbeat disposition.
South Korea Private Tour Guide
From Suncheon Bay Wetland to Andong, South Korea’s rich past and vibrant future comes alive with a local private tour guide. Unlock the South’s beauty today.
Beyond Seoul and Busan lies a side to South Korea that few get to explore. With your private guide and personalized itinerary, you can travel as far as Jinan County where Tapsa temple awaits, or as close as Tongyeong where emerald waters cradle this small sea town. Opening yourself up to intimate experiences and new stories just got easier.
Worried about the language barrier? Perhaps you’re eager to learn from a local? Our dedicated guides offer both conveniences, maximizing your South Korea tour with insights from far reaching destinations such as Ganghwa island, to food suggestions within the bustling Gwangjang Market.
South Korea Frequently Asked Questions
Is it good to hire tour guides in South Korea?
Yes! South Korea is built for daily interaction and exposure through a local guide. With a local’s perspective, you can;
- Understand the layers of cultural nuance as a local resident translates that significance for you.
Unravel hidden gems and lesser toured areas that most “must-see” lists miss. There’s a lot more to South Korea than the DMZ or the fascinating Joseon Palaces.
- Avoid transportation hassles and confusion while commuting from one location to another, which saves you time.
- Interact with a local who can further explain what daily life is like for South Koreans, with ups, downs and everything in between. It opens you up to know more than what we see on the surface.
- Gain additional venues to visit as your guide combines your interests with what South Korea has to offer.
More Information: Hiring A Guide In South Korea: Pros & Cons
Yes! South Korea is built for daily interaction and exposure through a local guide. With a local’s perspective, you can;
- Understand the layers of cultural nuance as a local resident translates that significance for you.
Unravel hidden gems and lesser toured areas that most “must-see” lists miss. There’s a lot more to South Korea than the DMZ or the fascinating Joseon Palaces. - Avoid transportation hassles and confusion while commuting from one location to another, which saves you time.
- Interact with a local who can further explain what daily life is like for South Koreans, with ups, downs and everything in between. It opens you up to know more than what we see on the surface.
- Gain additional venues to visit as your guide combines your interests with what South Korea has to offer.
More Information: Hiring A Guide In South Korea: Pros & Cons
How do I get a Korean guide?
Head to our South Korea Tour Guides Page and click on one or more guides. Once you find a profile that you like, check the guide’s availability to see if it matches with your travel time.
If everything looks good, go ahead and reach out to the guide with a detailed message of the type of Korean tour you and your loved ones are looking for. From there, you and your guide will create your dream itinerary!
Head to our South Korea Tour Guides Page and click on one or more guides. Once you find a profile that you like, check the guide’s availability to see if it matches with your travel time.
If everything looks good, go ahead and reach out to the guide with a detailed message of the type of Korean tour you and your loved ones are looking for. From there, you and your guide will create your dream itinerary!
How much do you tip a guide in Korea?
Don’t tip guides or service workers in Korea. Why? Because it can be seen as insulting. In Korean culture, it’s perceived negatively. It’s as if you consider them as poor. So what can you do instead? Leave a glowing review for your guide, refer them to others traveling to South Korea and use their services again when the time comes.
Don’t tip guides or service workers in Korea. Why? Because it can be seen as insulting. In Korean culture, it’s perceived negatively. It’s as if you consider them as poor. So what can you do instead? Leave a glowing review for your guide, refer them to others traveling to South Korea and use their services again when the time comes.
How many days is enough for a South Korea tour?
7-14 days is ideal as South Korea is HUGE when it comes to things to do and places to see. From the beaches of Busan to the skyscrapers of Seoul and the history across the Han River, everyday is sure to be jam packed with activity. If you want to exhaust your South Korea bucket ist and have time to relax, partner up with an expert guide who will help you plan your days out.
7-14 days is ideal as South Korea is HUGE when it comes to things to do and places to see. From the beaches of Busan to the skyscrapers of Seoul and the history across the Han River, everyday is sure to be jam packed with activity. If you want to exhaust your South Korea bucket ist and have time to relax, partner up with an expert guide who will help you plan your days out.
Which month is best to visit South Korea?
May to June & September to November are often considered the best months to visit South Korea as the weather is warm, crisp and breezy. Springtime brings cherry blossoms while fall brings colorful leaves and warm waters.
Want to learn more about South Korea? Check out our South Korea Tourism Statistics 2023.
May to June & September to November are often considered the best months to visit South Korea as the weather is warm, crisp and breezy. Springtime brings cherry blossoms while fall brings colorful leaves and warm waters.
Want to learn more about South Korea? Check out our South Korea Tourism Statistics 2023.
Is English spoken in South Korea?
Yes, but not as frequently as English speaking nations in Europe or North America. South Korea has an English proficiency rating of 537 which is moderate, meaning a lot of people understand it, but are not as confident in fluently speaking it with English speakers.
Yes, but not as frequently as English speaking nations in Europe or North America. South Korea has an English proficiency rating of 537 which is moderate, meaning a lot of people understand it, but are not as confident in fluently speaking it with English speakers.
Latest South Korea Articles
Why Hiring A Private Tour Guide In South Korea Is Worth Every Won
Hiring A Guide In Busan: Pros & Cons
Hiring A Guide In Seoul: The Pros & Cons
Tourism In Busan Statistics 2023: The Ultimate Guide
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