seoul tour guide fee

• South Korea ›

Seoul Private Tour Guides

Contact a private tour guide to plan your seoul itinerary and book online..

View all 44 reviews

Popular Seoul Tour Guides

Hello everyone, I am Paul, a tour guide in Seoul. Seoul is a fascinated destination that seamlessly blends the old with the new. I'm excited to show you some of the best things to make your trip fun and unforgettable memory, through my deep knowledge about culture and history of Korea and exuberant experiences in tour. My primary tourist destination is Seoul and metropolitan area, consisting of 5 palaces, Royal Ancestral Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village, National museum of Korea, War Memorial of Korea and other museums & galleries and contemporary architectures, and Namsan Mt. with N-Seoul Tower, traditional & trendy market places such as Gwangjang market & Hondae street, and also Korean Folk Village & DMZ tour. Center of culture and tour is architecture. Architectural style represents spirit of times. We can see as much as we know about spirit of times. For example, without knowledge about Christianity, the spirit of medieval Europe, we cannot fully appreciate beauty and value of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Confucianism was the spirit of Joseon Dynasty. Architectural style of Gyeongbokgung represents Confucianism. Confucianism culture of Joseon Dynasty is unique characteristic of Korean culture, compared to Chinese, Japanese and European culture. Hence, my tourist information is based on Confucianism. Thank you for your interest! As your guide, I hope to see you soon in Seoul.                                                                                                                                  

I am Thomas, a licensed tour guide in Seoul, Korea since 2016. I am optimistic, easy-going and open-minded. Before being a tour guide, I had worked at a major company as a personnel manager for almost 30 years. I learned how to get along with people through my job experience. Now, as a tour guide, If you let me know what you are interested in, for example, places to visit, activities to do, and food to eat. I will do my best to make everything you imagine come true. I offer the best services; High Quality and Customized tours, Free transportation service and Free photo service. I also guarantee a comfortable, pleasant, safe and memorable tour. Enjoy the moment at your own pace and time in Korea, I will capture it as a photo. Thank you                                                                                                                                  

Hello Everyone, My name is Hans, I've been living in Seoul Korea over 40 years and working as an officially certified English speaking tour & trekking guide since 2015. I have various experiences in city tours including history, culture, religion, foods and so on, and I met lots of tourists with Private and Group from the world, and understand of what they want to see and do. As a result, I can bring tourist to those major tourist spots and believe you will be satisfied with my tour, and back to home with forgettable memories after the time with me. My tour coverages are Seoul City tour with DMZ, Unesco world heritages, National park trekking, country side cycling tour, and nationwide multiple days tour with my van.                                                                                                                                  

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.                                                                                                                                  

Hello, I am Moises a cosmopolitan traveler with the ability to build strong relationships, I have lived in various countries for years. I like to enjoy opera, cinema, extreme sports, and history buff. My passion is traveling the world and I have been working as a tour guide since 2013, guiding in many of the most beautiful cities in the world; Valletta (Malta), New York City (USA), Vancouver (Canada), Valencia (Spain), Granada (Spain), Córdoba (Spain), Austin (USA), etc. My tours are specialized in historical and cultural routes. I believe that everyone should be given the opportunity to know the history and culture of a city, and I make this possible. Best regards, Moises.                                                                                                                                  

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                                                                                                                                  .

Hi, my name is Joe and I’m the founder of Makgeolli work shop studio. I’m also a Korean alcohol sommelier with a deep love for well-being and healthy food. I was born in Ecuador and raised in the United States, but I always felt a strong connection to my Korean roots. When I finally made my way to Korea, I knew that I wanted to find a way to connect with my heritage. That’s when I discovered the craft of making Makgeolli. Our book, classes, and online content have reached out to makgeolli enthusiasts all over the world, and it makes me happy when people have found help through us, and even start experimenting and making their own makgeolli creations. I’m passionate about introducing Korea’s rice wine culture to the rest of the world, so If you are interested in learning more about our services please do not hesitate to take part in our Makgeolli making experience.                                                                                                                                  

Jake (jong kyu) Y.

Hi, my name is jake. i love meeting new friends and traveling all over the world. that's why i'm working as a private tour guide in korea i also love taking pictures. that's why i'm also a professional photographer, and i don't mind sharing my photographic skills with you i will be happy to take photographs of you on tour and to help you with your photography when requested. i have plenty of experience giving private tours of korea having received my tour guide license in 2014. i love sharing the culture and history of my home country with my guests there are so many beautiful places to see in seoul, korea. seoul is the capital city of korea with over 600 years of history. it is the heart of korea's politics and economics as well as culture and education. seoul has many old historic places like gyeongbokgung palace and traditional culture places like bukchon hanok village, insa-dong, etc. the shopping and entertainment districts of myeongdong and korea's largest underground shopping mall, coex also a lot of tourists coming every year. the han river, which runs through the middle of the city, is also a beautiful landscape that offers resting areas for citizens. kwangjang market, which is the the traditional urban market over 100 years. seoul n tower, which is the famous tourist destination frequented by both domestic and international tourists. top of the tower, there is an observatory, you could see whole the amazing view of seoul and love padlocks, too. why don't you join my tour and have plenty of fun and memories during your visit to korea i'm looking forward to seeing you soon. thank you. jake                                                                                                                                  , seoul tour reviews.

7 days hidden gem tour of Seoul and Vicinity

“ 7 days in Seoul and the surrounding areas with a family of 6 ”

At first we think 7 days might be a little bit long to stay in Seoul and the nearby areas, but Hans suggested an itinerary which turns out to be perfect. All my family members enjoyed the whole period of stay and the touring/hiking/activities. Hans is excellent in guiding us around, and he showed us both good places and good food. Have no reservation to recommend Hans to anyone who is looking for an experienced and attending guide.

Thank you vey much, it was my honor to guide so lovely family. Even I learned a lot from you and your family members.. hope we can see again in the future and god bless you.

Security tour to divided Korea

“ DMZ and war history tour ”

We enjoyed our day with Paul who is very knowledgeable on Korean history. The tour did turn out to be quite long (11hours) as the DMZ tour took longer than expected and we got caught in a traffic jam getting back into Seoul. It was an interesting way to spend our last day in South Korea.

Guest and her children, Vida and Ruber were very patient despite of tough itinerary, that was started from 6:40 am to 6:00pm, and traffic jam of 2hour & 10min on way back to accommodation. Guests paid to Korean history and reality of diviede Korea. Guests enjoyed beautiful weather of spring season.

Cruise Tour

“ Seoul day tour ”

Thomas is a very knowledgeable guide. He showed us the most interesting places in Seoul. He is a good photographer. He made sooo many pictures. We would definitely recommend him to our friends

Thank you for your excellent review. It was my pleasure to guide your group. I am very happy to hear that you enjoyed the Seoul City Tour. 5 hours were not enough to go many places. If you come to Korea again, I will show you more places with delicious korean food. I hope everything goes well with you. Thank you very much again.

The best tours and activities

With a real local of your choice

The option to personalize your tour

Just contact your favorite local

Only private tours!

So no group tours with strangers

Related Seoul Tour Guide Pages

Local tour guides in seoul.

Get on the Seoul train with a local guide and discover the intricacies of the city through self-curated private tours. Leave the heavy lifting to your guide.

Ready to take on the sweetly scented twists and turns of Mangwon Market? Perhaps you’re curious about the technological marvels at the Samsung Dlight Museum? Let your guide know where your passions lie and they’ll craft your tours around what makes your travel-loving heart beat.

Bypass awkward social encounters and heavy language barriers with a local guide that’s in tune with everyday customs and etiquette. From drink pouring protocols to greeting norms, you’ll never be at a loss when it comes to information.

Korea Tour Guide

Private tour in seoul, fully customised private tour in korea.

We provide private tours in Seoul and Korea that are 100% tailored around you. Already have a plan, itinerary or a few ideas of places to visit in mind? Great! We’ll help turn it into reality. Prefer to leave it to us, or simply want to play it by ear? No problem, we’ve got you covered!

Best Tour Guides in Korea (No Middle Man!)

We operate all our private tours using our own fully licensed and experienced South Korean tour guides. There are no middlemen or intermediaries, so you can be assured of the highest level of quality, experience and comfort.

Transparent Pricing & No Hidden Charges

We aim to be as transparent as possible with our pricing. Except for charges outside of our control, such as entrance tickets, meals and parking fees, there are no hidden charges. See our pricing table below.

Complete Flexibility

Need only a tour guide for half a day, a full day or require extra hours? Need private transportation and a driver? Want to change the tour itinerary on the day? We always do our best to accommodate your needs.

Securely Book Online

Book and pay online using a secure payment gateway, or pay your guide at the start of the tour with cash or card. We do not store any payment details on our website.

Private Tour Reviews

I was so worried about traveling with my newborn and elderly parents that I decided to book a private tour with VIP. Well, it was the best decision I could have made. Our tour guide Moon ensured everyone was looked after and she was so knowledgeable, kind and entertaining too. She even laughed at some of my dad’s terrible jokes.

We only had 48 hours stopover at Incheon Airport but wanted to see the main sites in Seoul and visit Namsan Tower at nighttime. We booked the full day private tour with Equus sedan. Our trip was very organized and we visited many places including palaces markets and a cruise down Han River. We are both very satisfied and will book again next time with VIP.

As our family have temporarily located to Korea to be with my actively serving husband we already had access to a car. But not knowing much about Seoul I wanted to book a tour guide for the day. We all had a fantastic time and So Young even introduced us to a few local Korean delicacies. Gamsahamnida…

Fares for Tour Guides in Korea

Starting from just

Up to 10 people

4 hours: 250,000

8 hours: 300,000

More than 10 people

4 hours: 300,000

8 hours: 400,000

Additional hour : 50,000

Airport transfer : 150,000 (one way)

chinese/japanese

Other languages.

4 hours: 400,000

8 hours: 700,000

4 hours: 500,000

8 hours: 800,000

Additional hour : 100,000

The above fares only include a tour guide in Seoul. Other costs for food, accommodation and transportation are not included. The minimum number of hours for the private tour service is 4 hours. When the tour exceeds 4 hours, the fare for 8 hours is applied. If the tour exceeds 8 hours, an additional hourly charge will be applied. When cancelling on the day of the tour, the cancellation charge is 100% of the booking cost. The company is not responsible for cancellation on the day of the tour due to the customer’s schedule changes or the weather. We accept Korean Won, US Dollars, Japanese Yen, and credit cards. The above fares do not include taxes. When required to issue a tax invoice, 10% tax will be added. Payment by credit card replaces a tax invoice.

Fares for Transportation

8 hours: 500,000

Additional hour: 70,000

Airport transfer: 300,000 (one way)

Capacity: 2 Recommend

Additional hour: 50,000

Airport transfer: 200,000 (one way)

Capacity: 4 Recommended

Airport transfer: 400,000 (one way)

Capacity: Up to 12

Charter bus

4 hours: 600,000

Additional hour: 100,000

Airport transfer: 700,000 (one way)

Capacity: Up to 40

The above fares include a driver, vehicle, and fuel. Other variable costs, including parking, toll gates, meals for the driver, and accommodation when travelling outside Seoul, are not included. The minimum number of hours for the private tour transport service is 4 hours. When the tour exceeds 4 hours, the fare for 8 hours is applied. If the tour exceeds 8 hours, an additional hourly charge will be applied. When cancelling on the day of the tour, the cancellation charge is 100% of the booking cost. The company is not responsible for cancellation on the day of the tour due to the customer’s schedule changes or the weather. We accept Korean Won, US Dollars, Japanese Yen, and credit cards. The above fares do not include taxes. When required to issue a tax invoice, 10% tax will be added. Payment by credit card replaces a tax invoice.

Just need private transportation?

Then check out our driver and transport only services.

Book a Private Tour in English Online

Book your half-day or full-day private tour in Seoul with one of our English speaking fully licensed tour guides in Korea.

Need more help?

Looking for a private tour in South Korea run by a tour guide speaking your language? Need more help, have very specific requirements or have some questions? Get in touch below:

We can help with:

Tour guides in Korea who speaks different languages

Planning / organising for an event or special occasion

Large groups (families, schools, visiting guests etc)

Private tours in South Korea (outside of Seoul)

Overnight tours and accommodation

Simply fill out our Private Tour Enquiry Form , and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Private Tour Enquiry Form

600 characters remaining.

By clicking the "Send Message" button you agree to us processing your data in accordance with our privacy policy .

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Guide to Public Transportation

Neighborhood Guide

48 Hours in Seoul

Day Trips from Seoul

Things to Do in Seoul

Amazing Temples

Where to Go Shopping

Best Museums

Foods to Try

Best Restaurants in Seoul

Nightlife in Seoul

Seoul Guide: Planning Your Trip

A capital city for more than two millennia, Seoul draws in visitors with its food, culture, history, and highly-coveted cosmetics, among other things. Whatever the reason for your visit, you won't be disappointed by your trip to South Korea's bustling, vibrant capital. Get ready for your vacation with this complete guide including what to do, where to stay, and essential travel tips.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : While crowds are bigger, the weather in Seoul is at its most pleasant during spring and fall.
• Language: Korean
• Currency: Won   . 1,100 won is equivalent to $1.
• Getting Around : The Seoul Metro is fast, reliable, and covers a majority of the city and surrounding areas. What the subway doesn't reach, above-ground trains and buses do.
• Travel Tip: Buy a tourist T-money card, you get discounts on dozens of attractions, and it's good on the subway, buses, KTX trains, and in convenience stores.

Things to Do

Shopping, eating, and exploring the city on foot are the most common things to do in Seoul, as in any major city. Because of the city's extensive history, there are several palaces and historic neighborhoods ready to explore. Seoul is also filled to the brim with cosmetic stores where you can get very cheap, high-quality skincare products. The primary commerce areas also have dozens of street stalls selling cute socks and trendy clothes.

• Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of Seoul's five grand palaces. It was the former home of Joseon kings, and after being painstakingly restored, it's an incredibly popular tourist attraction. It's free to enter the first gate of the palace and to walk around the surrounding parks, but there is a fee to access the inner palace walls. Many visitors put on hanboks (traditional Korean dress) to walk around the palace. After visiting Gyeongbokgung, continue your tour of Korean history by walking to Bukchon Hanok Village. The neighborhood is filled with traditional homes and is free to visit.
• Namsan Tower is one of Seoul's most recognizable landmarks. The tower is at the top of a mountain and can be reached by hike or funicular. There, thousands of love locks are attached to fences and tree-shaped metal sculptures. It's exceptionally beautiful at night when you can see the sparkling city below, but be aware that you'll be sharing your view with dozens of couples.
• Olympic Park was built when Seoul hosted the 1988 Olympics   . It is a massive park with museums, walking trails, and the eternal flame. Sports and nature lovers alike will Olympic Park.

Add to your itinerary with our articles on the best things to do in Seoul , the top temples, and the best museums .

What to Eat and Drink

Foodies will love eating their way through Seoul. Whether it's trying cheesy egg bread, chowing down on ddeokbokki and fish cakes, or tucking into some Korean barbecue, Seoul has dozens of options, ranging from traditional Korean fare to international cuisine. Side dishes called banchan are served with all restaurant meals. The exact number of banchan that you will receive varies, but some sort of kimchi is guaranteed. While Korean cuisine is very meat-heavy, vegetarians and vegans will still be able to find restaurants that fit their needs.

As far as alcohol goes, South Korea is most well known for soju. It's readily available at almost all restaurants and convenience stores for less than 2,000 won (around $2). Soju pairs especially well with barbeque and fried foods. For a very Korean mixed drink, add a shot of soju to your glass of beer to make somaek . Makgeolli is another popular Korean alcohol. It is a type of rice wine and while it's not as widespread at soju, it's worth a try.

Find out where to eat with our article on the best restaurants in Seoul .

Where to Stay

Gangnam: Made famous overseas by PSY's viral hit "Gangnam Style," this neighborhood has tons of restaurants, high-end stores, and is home to the largest underground shopping center in Asia, COEX Mall .

Hongdae: Hongdae is a hot spot for live music, bars, restaurants, and boutiques. The neighborhood is close to several universities, so the crowds skew younger, and it's no surprise for streets to be bustling well into the early morning.

Itaewon: This area is home to a lot of expats, and as such, this is where you can find international restaurants and clothing in larger sizes. There are plenty of bars, cafes, and street art to check out. The Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art is in the area and has an impressive collection of traditional Korean and contemporary art.

Myeongdong: Myeongdong is a shopper's paradise. There are massive department stores along with smaller street shopping and dozens of cosmetics stores. It's also an ideal place to taste some Korean street food.

Learn more about the city's different neighborhoods and the best hotels.

Getting There

Seoul has two major international airports to choose from, but a vast majority of international flights from the U.S., Europe, and Canada fly into Incheon International Airport, the newer of the two. Gimpo International Airport is still a viable option and is closer to the city (although, since both are accessible on the same train line, the 30 minutes saved may not be a significant deciding factor).

Culture and Customs

• While Seoul is an international city and the number of foreign tourists is only growing, fluent English is not widely spoken or understood. That doesn't mean that you need to know Korean to enjoy the city; pointing and pantomiming is more than enough. However, some menus do not come in English, so having a translation app on your phone or knowing the Korean alphabet will come in handy.
• Air quality in Seoul has worsened over time. Fine dust (called "hwang sa" in Korean) used to only be an issue during the spring, but now it's a year-round threat. Purchase an air filtering face mask in convenience stores or pharmacies and keep an eye on the air quality for the neighborhoods you'll be in each day.
• Foreigners aren't held to the same cultural standards as Koreans, but it is considered rude to give or receive something, like money or a credit card, with one hand   . You'll notice that store workers will hand your card back with two hands, and it's polite to receive it with two hands. Most employees will also bow when greeting customers. When that happens, you should return the bow.
• Don't expect people to say "excuse me" when passing you on the street or when pushing past you on the train. It's just not a common practice in Seoul.
• When you want to ask for more water or side dishes at a restaurant, you should call out for an employee. Saying " sajangnim " (boss) or " yogiyo " (over here) is sufficient and is not considered rude. Some restaurants have a call button you can press instead.
• If you don't see any spoons or chopsticks on your table, check the sides. There is usually a drawer on the side of a table filled with chopsticks, napkins, and spoons.

Money Saving Tips

• When shopping at street markets, bring cash with you. While most places will accept cards, you will pay a 10 percent service fee.
• A tourist T-money card is an excellent investment. It costs slightly more (4,000 won instead of 2,500 won and is cash only), but it also gives discounts to popular attractions. Look for a card that says "Korea Tour Card" on it at the airport or in subway stations.
• It's very easy to have an excellent meal at a low price in Seoul. Street food stalls sell rice cakes, fried foods, sweet and savory hotteok , dumplings, and the list goes on. Restaurants in university neighborhoods like Hongdae or Sinchon also tend to be cheaper than in say, Itaewon or Gangnam.
• Many stores offer VAT refunds for purchases over 30,000 won ($25), and some will process the return on the spot—rather than at the airport. Make sure you bring your passport and save your receipts to get the refund.
• Some attractions like Gwanghwamun Palace have nominal entrance fees, but it's free to walk around the main gate.

Learn more about how to enjoy the city without spending a fortune by reading our guide to a budget trip to Seoul.

Seoul Tourism Organization . "All about Money in Korea."

Korea Tourism Organization . "Olympic Park."

Seoul Tourism Organization. "Etiquette."

Getting Around Seoul: Guide to Public Transportation

A Complete Guide to Drinking in South Korea

Getting Around Busan: Guide to Public Transportation

48 Hours In Seoul: The Ultimate Itinerary

Nightlife in Seoul: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

The 12 Best Day Trips From Seoul

Your Trip to Busan: The Complete Guide

The Top Things to Do in Seoul, South Korea

Your Trip to Bangkok: The Complete Guide

The Ultimate Guide to the Neighborhoods of Seoul

The 11 Best Places For Korean BBQ in LA

The Essential Guide to Seoul's Incheon International Airport

One Week in South Korea: The Ultimate Itinerary

Cooking With the Ajummas in Dubai

The Top 15 Things to Do in Daegu

The Top 14 Things to Do in Incheon, South Korea

TheKoreanGuide is a reader-supported site. Purchases made through links may earn a commission.

Seoul Travel Guide: What To Do and Must-Visit Attractions

With airports opening back up and tourism increasing in the past year, there’s plenty of destinations for you to choose from.

One of those places is Seoul, South Korea, which is home to brilliant exhibits of culture and art. What is there for you to do in Seoul, and is it worth it?

Seoul, South Korea is a large city filled with culture and tourist activities that make it worthwhile. Not only is Seoul a very safe city to visit, but it is rising in popularity due to the impacts Korean culture, entertainment, and business has had on the rest of the world. Seoul is among the most visited cities in the world. 

The rest of this article will cover what to do in the city, where to stay, what Seoul is known for, and a brief conclusion.

What To Do In Seoul

Seoul (서울) is a vibrant city with gorgeous sights and culture you have to see. But before we get into that, we have to talk about one of the most important parts of South Korean culture: the food. Between side dishes, street food, and stews, South Korea has a versatile cuisine!

Side Dishes

A staple of Korean culture are the side dishes served with each meal. Called Banchan (반찬) by Koreans, side dishes is an idea that dates back to the Korean royal court cuisine, which consisted of anywhere between 2 to 12 side dishes.

Cheaper restaurants tend to serve less, but each side dish is tasty and compliments the meal. Banchan arrives before meals, but don’t confuse them with an appetizer. 

They are included in the cost of the meal, and the best part: they have free, unlimited refills!

Some common side dishes are: kelp noodle salad (cheonsachae salad or 천사채), spicy Korean coleslaw, sweet and salty soybeans (kongjabean or 콩자반), sweet and salty lotus roots (yeonkeun jorim or 연근조림), and Korean style sausage stir fry.

Street Food

If you’re looking for an alternative to dine-in restaurants, street food is just for you! Street food is ready-to-eat food you can buy from local vendors. 

Even better: vendors are easy to find and are lined up and down the Seoul streets, all you have to do is find the one that suits you!

There are plenty of foods to choose from, so get your chopsticks ready. For starters, you have to try Korean style fried chicken. It’s a must when you’re in Seoul. 

Street vendors will absolutely sell Korean fried chicken, and you should at least try them while you’re there!

There’s also bibimbap (비빔밥). Bap (밥) in Korean literally means rice, or meal. Therefore, bibimbap translates to mixed rice. 

Bibimbap has warm rice and sauteed and or seasoned vegetables. A raw or fried egg and sliced meat, normally beef, are included as well.

Korean dumplings ( mandu or 만두) are another commonly served street food dish. There are many different types of dumplings you can get such as vegetable dumplings, beef dumplings, and or pork dumplings. These foods are all super tasty and super affordable!

With Seoul having a cool climate, soups and stews are a significant portion of a Korean’s diet. One popular stew is known as Army stew. 

This stew has American processed meat such as Spam, ham, bacon, and hot dogs. Those meats are mixed into a Korean stew with kimchi .

Kimchi-jjigae (김치찌개) is a stew made with kimchi and various other ingredients such as pork or seafood, scallions, onions, and diced dubu. This stew is a popular choice in South Korea, and it’s a common stew to find in Seoul.

Lastly, another popular stew is Korean crab stew (kkotgetang 꽃게탕). This stew is pretty self-explanatory. It’s a stew with a flower crab as the primary ingredient. 

There’s also Korean radish, garlic, dried anchovies, and other ingredients that vary by the recipe.

The Sights In Seoul, South Korea

Seoul itself is an architectural landmark. There are specific sights in Seoul that are places you have to visit while you’re there. 

A few of those places are: N Seoul Tower, the Ansan Starlight Village, and the Jogyesa. There’s also entertainment like underground shopping.

N Seoul Tower

The N Seoul Tower is famous for its location and height allowing access to the gorgeous skyline of Seoul. 

Back in 1969, it was utilized as Korea’s first general radio wave tower. TV and radio broadcasts would play from the N Seoul Tower to the surrounding metropolitan area.

This tower is 236 meters high and is the second-highest point in Seoul. It is a communication and observation tower on Nam Mountain. 

The N Seoul Tower is in the center of Seoul, which is why the height and location is so perfect for tourists looking to get amazing pictures.

Ansan Starlight Village

Perhaps the brightest pick on this list, the Ansan Starlight village is a radiant garden along the expressway of Ansan. 

It is known for being festive and romantic all-year-round, and displays of over 200 animals are there. These animals include: owls, cranes, swans, elephants, and more.

Not only does it provide an astonishing atmosphere for relaxation and Instagram posts, but it’s also an area that sparks romance. 

Marriage proposals are a common occurrence there due to the perfect lighting and activities.

The Jogyesa (조계사) is a Korean Buddhist temple. It is the chief temple of the Jogye Order. The building itself dates back to the 14th century, becoming the chief temple in 1936. It is located in central Seoul, and it is known for its zen environment.

Not only is the architect magnificent, but the nature surrounding it is fresh and preserved, just like the temple. 

The Jogyesa is a common tourist site for experiencing royal palace life. You can tour the building with a guide and see all the history and architecture with your own eyes.

Underground Shopping

A famous activity in Seoul is underground shopping. Two examples of underground shopping areas are the Express Bus Terminal Underground Center and the Gangnam Underground Shopping Center. 

These shopping areas are perfect for good finds, even on a rainy day.

Many of the shopping centers, both above ground and underground, are located in Myeongdong , the shopping district of Seoul. 

Underground shopping centers don’t risk putting a large dent in your budget. They’re cheap yet fashionable and useful.

Some tips for underground shopping are to bring cash with you and check out the trendy stores. Some items require cash, no credit. 

As for the trendy stores, you can find the latest fashion trends at underground stores for more affordable prices, so be on the lookout for that!

Where To Stay In Seoul

When it comes to the size of South Korea, it’s not as large as other countries like America. So, their compromise was to build their buildings upwards to make more space, not side-to-side. This means there are many apartment buildings and hotels all around Seoul.

There are 5 main districts in Seoul you should consider staying near: Myeongdong , Hongdae , Gangnam , Itaewon , and Jamsil .

Prices and quality depends on which area you choose. There’s Myeongdong (명동), which is known for being a huge shopping district. 

The Westin Josun Seoul Hotel is only a 5-minute walk away from the bustling life of Myeongdong. It’s a highly rated hotel with many activities inside.

The shopping district has everything you’ll need from body care items you misplaced to trinkets and K-pop albums. There are department stores, shoe stores like Adidas, perfume shops, skincare stores, H&M, and many more for all your traveling and souvenir needs.

Hongdae (홍대) is for those craving an adventure more indie and fashionable. It’s a creative district with plenty of cafes and Korean BBQ. Mono House Hongdae is a minimalist housing property that’s affordable and only 5 minutes away from the Hongik University Subway Station.

The entertainment value at Hongdae is incredible. The Tricky Eye Museum Seoul relies on visual tricks to keep you on your toes and show you various art. There’s also clubs for dancing and music. Hongdae as a whole values urban arts, indie music culture, and entertainment.

Gangnam (강남구) is a wealthier district of Seoul, meaning higher quality living, but at the cost of much higher prices. The Park Hyatt Seoul is an expensive 5-star hotel that has a relaxing spa and gorgeous views of Gangnam. It’s worth the price for the views alone!

There’s also the Aloft Seoul Gangnam. This is a cheaper, 4-star hotel that’s the better option for those wishing for a taste of the high life without losing a significant amount of money in the process. It includes business services, an on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and a lounge.

If you were called the life of the party growing up, Itaewon (이태원) is for you. It’s nicknamed the “Western Town” of Seoul due to the variety of international cuisine and entertainment offered there. It has multiple unique bars, restaurants, and activities around town all worth visiting.

The Grand Hyatt Seoul is a 5-star hotel with over 600 rooms and over 50 suites. It’s close to both Itaewon and Myeongdong, but it is expensive. However, it may be worth it since some amenities include an on-site restaurant, an indoor pool, and free Wi-Fi.

Jamsil (잠실동) is the best spot for families. It’s also great for those who love sports. Jamsil is home to not one, but two professional Korean baseball teams: the LG Twins and Doosan Bears. It’s rich with K-pop culture, and it’s also home to Lotte World, an amusement park.

The Lotte World Hotel is right beside the amusement park of the same name, and it is a 5-star hotel that also sits on top of Jamsil Subway Station. 

It’s the perfect hotel for your family to travel across Seoul and Jamsil, experiencing the amusement park as well as the culture.

What Seoul Is Known For

It would be impossible to talk about Seoul without mentioning the entertainment industry that has brought us popular K-dramas such as Squid Game, and the K-pop industry that brought us the worldwide superstars BTS. Seoul is overflowing with creativity and art.

Fun fact: Seoul is the birthplace of K-pop. Although the term wasn’t coined until 1999 by Cho Hyun-jin, Korean music groups rose from Seoul. 

History and culture is thriving in the city, and that’s what tourists go to visit. Places like the Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) are famous destinations.

One of the most famous aspects of Seoul is the street food. Street food is cheaper than restaurant food and it still tastes yummy. It’s a perfect alternative to when you don’t want to spend a lot of money, and you want to wander around the streets of Seoul while eating.

South Korea is known for its beauty standards and skincare . Koreans use natural ingredients to keep their skin clean and smooth. In the west, Korean skincare products and routines are popular because of the glowing skin they cause. Many of these products come from Seoul.

Lastly, Seoul is known for the preserved royal temples around the land. There are more than 900 traditional Buddhist temples that are centuries old. In total, there are over 20,000 temples in Seoul.

Seoul is a beautiful and safe city for tourists that has grown in popularity over the years. It is known for its rich culture, entertainment, skincare, K-pop, and preservation of traditional Buddhist temples.

The food is a must-have. There are various types of food such as side dishes, street food, and stews that will keep you invested in the culture surrounding you. There’s also the sights of Seoul like the N Seoul Tower, and those sights encourage you to snap countless pictures.

Lastly, the 5 main districts of Seoul you should consider visiting are: Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, Itaewon, and Jamsil.

Each individual place has its own lifestyle and culture. There’s the shopping, the indie culture, the wealthy, the partying, and the amusement park.

Don’t forget to check out Ulsan , Sejong , and Daejeon .

Enjoy the article?

You'll love my daily email! Learn something new about South Korea every single day. It's completely free. <3

About The Author

You May Also Like

10 Best Korean Toners for Dry Skin (2024 Updated)

The 8 Best Korean Essences for Dry Skin (2024 Updated)

24 Best Korean Skincare Brands of All-Time

Is Korean Skincare Cheaper in Korea?

How Long Does It Take for Korean Skincare to Work?

Is Korean Skincare Similar to Japanese?

© 2024 TheKoreanGuide.com | As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Complete Guide to the 5 Grand Palaces in Seoul

Last Updated: Nov 12, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

When we think of palaces in the west, we tend to think of the royal palaces of England and Spain, but for many people, Asian countries like South Korea spring to mind. That’s because much like their Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Malay neighbors, Koreans took the initiative to care for the magnificent palaces of Seoul .

There are five Seoul palaces open to the public:

• Gyeongbokgung
• Changdeokgung
• Changgyeonggung
• Gyeonghuigung

All five Seoul palaces are best seen during spring, when the surrounding flora reinforces the palaces’ dancheong designs , or the color schemes used on wooden buildings and artifacts in pre-modern Korean architecture. Dancheong can either come in red, blue, yellow, black, and white, and these aren’t just random patterns. 

There’s a reason they seem to be everywhere when you visit historical sites in Korea. These spots have stories, and as a traveler, it’s fascinating to unravel the meanings of each colorful piece.

The largest palace in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung, actually just reopened the majority of their grounds in spring 2022, after more than half a decade of renovation. So for whenever you set foot into any of the royal palaces in Seoul, here is our guide to taking a respectful trip back into the past. 

9 Tips for Visiting Palaces in Seoul

Coming to any of the royal palaces in Seoul may seem to require a lot of preparation. The areas around the grounds can get hot & humid (most especially during the Summer ), and walking from one site to another may take a while.

A couple of the 5 Seoul palaces are much like a maze, and others are easy to navigate. Overall, it’s most important to dress for comfort (keeping the weather in mind), and don shoes that are perfect for walking.

• Wear a Hanbok to Get in for Free

If you don’t know what a hanbok is, it’s a Korean traditional outfit often worn during holidays or special occasions – but you don’t have to have a special reason to wear them. There are plenty of hanbok rental shops outside every Seoul palace, and you can rent these for an affordable price (₩13,000 to ₩15,000 for the afternoon).

If you want to skip the lines, there’s an option online that lets you borrow hanboks for a whole day. Since 2013 you've even been able to come in for free, because the Cultural Heritage Administration has waived admission fees to anybody properly wearing a hanbok to any palace in Seoul.

By properly, they mean that tourists are expected to follow the requirements on how to respectfully don this traditional garment. Unfortunately, this means that women should strictly wear the skirt ( chima ) above their waists, despite how uncomfortable and inconvenient it can get in the summer.

The chima can get really billowy and heavy, so people have actually been trying to contest this rule since 2017, but until then, you can save bucks by just wearing the hanbok properly.

• Royal Palaces in Seoul are Free on Major Holidays

If you’re not keen on wearing the hanbok, there’s another way to get in for free, and that is to time your visits during major holidays like Chuseok (week-long fall harvest festival) or Seollal (Korean Lunar New Year) .

Cultural events are plentiful in any of the Seoul Palaces during these holidays, and sightseers will be treated to performances like the pansori (musical storytelling) , ganggangsullae (traditional circle dance) and samulnori (percussion dance). 

• Come See Seoul’s Palaces on the Last Wednesday of Every Month

Here’s another cool tip: the fee to the royal palaces in Seoul is waived during “ Culture Day ,” also known as the last Wednesday of each month. This event is created to boost the approachability and accessibility of Korean culture to the public.

On this day, cultural sites other than the Seoul palaces also offer free or heavily discounted admission to locals and tourists. Their goal is to help bridge the cultural gap with opportunities that teach visitors about this wonderful country, so expect to meet lots of locals.

• Don’t Come on Mondays (or Tuesdays for Gyeongbokgung)

The downside of the Seoul Palaces are that they’re not open every day. What if you decide to wear a hanbok to get in for free only to realize that these places are closed? Save yourself from the trouble by researching when the palace closes beforehand, and planning to do other activities that day.

Note that all palaces are closed on Mondays, except Gyeongbokgung (which is closed Tuesdays).

• Join a Seoul Palace Tour

What may aid in your discovery is to sign up for a tour to understand the royal palaces of Seoul even better. These guided tours not only will provide you with a lot of information, but they’ll also show you the optimal walkways to cover all the main parts of the grounds, which is especially important at Gyeongbokgung. 

Whether paid or unpaid, these tour opportunities can thoroughly educate those who are genuinely interested in Korean history. Unfortunately, the official tours are only offered once a day in English, which is why many opt to join a paid tour.

Luckily, many of these tours also come with fun activities, like a stop in at a traditional tea tasting within the palace grounds, or photoshoots in special areas that normally require additional charges to get in. 

Speaking of tours, Gyeongbokgung Palace offers a free guided tour in English at 2PM every day, and you can register yourself on their website or inquire about it onsite. 

• There are Night Tours Too!

Many tourists are surprised to know that the palaces are even more breathtaking at night, and there are actually tours that let you enjoy a romantic walk around the palace gardens at night.

Evening photoshoots in a hanbok is a popular couples’ activity in Korea, and you can often hire photographers nearby in the most popular spots to take romantic pictures of you and your loved ones.

• Get an “Integrated Ticket of Palaces”

Jumping from one Seoul palace to another may be cheap (because cultural sites don’t really charge much), but it can be even more affordable if you acquire this special pass that lasts for a month. That gives you enough time to carefully plan your trip to the five palaces in Seoul without rush from one to another.

Simply visit any one of the five royal palaces in Seoul and ask for the Integrated Ticket of Palaces.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes

If you’re going to walk around the palaces, it wouldn’t make any sense to wear heels or boots. Keep in mind that you’ll be walking for hours on soft, uneven ground, and even though there are plenty of places to rest, most of the areas are already crowded with people.

If you must bring a bag, pack light, because you'll be walking quite a bit.

• Follow The Dress Code

While we are on the topic of what to wear, there is no formal dress code for any of the Seoul palaces. But it is an unwritten rule that you should show respect by wearing something that covers your shoulders, as this is a cultural site. You don’t want to get scolded by a random older Korean while you’re enjoying your visit.

Fun Fact : 'gung' is Korean for palace, which is why all the palaces' names end in -gung.

The 5 Remarkable Royal Palaces of Seoul

Gyeongbokgung palace.

Hours : closed on Tuesdays; 9AM to 6PM

Season : best in spring

Entrance Fee: Adults: ₩3,000; Children: ₩1,500

How to Get There : Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 5)

My advice is, before you visit other royal palaces in Korea, come see Gyeongbokgung first. This is because before you get to the palace grounds, you can visit a free museum full of well-preserved archaeological digs that date all the way back to the Joseon Dynasty, making it the perfect place to feed your inner history buff.

You’ll also get a good foundation of knowledge before wandering the large grounds; bring a water bottle if the weather is warm. Afterwards you can head over to the actual palace, just a quick walk outside and around, to truly explore the large swath of land that it occupies.

As soon as you enter Gwanghwamun Gate, you will truly understand why it is called the “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven.” The immense Geunjeongjeon Hall – also known as the largest wooden structure in Korea – used to be where grand coronation ceremonies were held.

You can join the long queue to peer inside and admire the detailed ceiling dancheong , with stories representing the regal authority of the King. 

While the entrance is already serving you much of the good stuff, behind this large wooden palace is a walkway to the building floating on a man-made pond. This small structure is called the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and it’s a site created to hold lavish banquets to impress foreign delegates whom the King wishes to do business with.

You do have to pay extra to get in, but the panoramic views of the Seoul cityscape will quickly convince you that this is worth it. While in the middle of your visit, you might stumble upon tea ceremonies, reenactments, and traditional instrument performances.

But the most consistent show you’ll ever get is the “Changing of the Guard Ceremony” that takes place at 10AM and 2PM, right by the entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Within Korea, Gyeongbokgung Palace is famous as the place where King Sejong the Great created the first Korean alphabet, called hunmin jeong-um, which was later renamed hangul .

This is because he realized that his subjects had difficulty expressing terms in written Chinese characters. True to the King's promise, 'til today hangul has been widely recognized as the world’s easiest writing system .

Changdeokgung Palace

Hours : closed on Mondays; 9AM to 6:30PM

Season : best in spring & autumn

Entrance Fee: Adults: ₩3,000; Children: ₩1,500; Secret Garden entrance fee : Adults: ₩5,000; Children: ₩2,500

How to Get There : Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 3); Jongno 3-ga Station (Line 1, 3, & 5 Exit 6)

Also known as donggwol , or the Eastern Palace, Changdeokgung Palace was built after Gyeongbokgung Palace was constructed. This is also considered the most beautiful royal palace in Seoul, since this houses the not-so Secret Garden ( huwon) .

It’s known for its small pagoda with an impressive take on Korean garden architecture, overlooking a large pond called the buyeongji, which is usually covered in leaves during fall . Moreover, this is said to be the pond where King Jeongjo took his friends to fish.

Changdeokgung used to be the favorite villa of Joseon kings and princes, since its gardens were built to have a therapeutic vibe, meant to ease them from the burdens of running a kingdom. Furthermore, the building itself truly feels like an extension of the earth and trees, creating the vibe of being one with nature.

This royal palace also houses plenty of artifacts dating all the way back to the ancient period of samhan (or the era of the Three Kingdoms of Korea). This was the perfect setting for these cultural treasures, because unlike the resplendent Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung felt muted and blended in well with the surroundings. 

Nowadays it is also known as the most well-preserved palace in Seoul, and was the only Seoul palace that made the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997. 

Fun Fact : during the Goryeo and the Joseon period, this is where the gwageo , or national civil service exams, took place. Sadly the examinees and palace officials in charge of the event couldn’t wander beyond the restricted area to admire the garden without obtaining the King’s permission. If you’re curious to see what this looks like, sometime every October there’s a reenactment of the gwageo siheom process at this palace’s Injeongjeon Hall.

Gyeonghuigung Palace

Hours : closed on Mondays; 9AM to 6PM

Season : any season

Entrance Fee: Free

How to Get There : Seodaemun Station (Line 5, Exit 4)

Found on the west side of Seoul, this royal palace served as the King’s shelter whenever an emergency occurred. It used to be inconspicuous, hidden behind the slanted geography of the surrounding mountain, which made it the perfect hideout.

Now it’s the perfect area to view N-Seoul Tower without getting bothered by the raucous noises of Seoul. Too bad we couldn’t see how huge it used to be, because Gyeonghuigung used to have over a hundred halls and a bridge that traveled all the way to Deoksugung before the Japanese destroyed most of Korea’s palaces during the Imjin War (1592-1598).

That’s why, somewhere near the palace and the museum, almost near the parking lot in fact, there lies a concrete structure that used to be a Japanese bunker in World War II. Sadly, current restoration efforts were not given priority, and only a third of the palace grounds have been fixed.

Also, unlike the other Seoul palaces, this one feels more abandoned rather than its namesake; “serene.” Furthermore, some locals say that nobody really wants to come see it because it was so neglected, to the point that mountain tigers used to visit long ago and use it for rest.

Don’t worry about tigers coming now, though. Korean officials finally took care of the grounds and still use it for events like the recreation of the gwageo .

The number of people coming to see the nearby Seoul Museum of History has thusly increased the number of people wanting to see this palace, as well as understand the role it played in sheltering ten Joseon kings. The museum remains a great source of understanding how Korea has developed into the metropolis we know today.

Deoksugung Palace

Season : best in fall

Entrance Fee: Adults: ￦1000; Children: ￦500

How to Get There : Sicheong Station (Line 1, Exit 1)

After the Imjin War, King Seonjo used this as a temporary place to stay. Years later, King Gojong thought it would be a brilliant idea to legalize it into a legitimate palace before stepping down to make way for the last King of the Joseon Dynasty: Sunjong.

Perhaps what’s so fascinating about Deoksugung palace is that it has a lot of foreign architecture incorporated into the design. There’s even a European-style stone wall that surrounds the entire palace.

Specifically the Jeonggwanheon Pavilion, for example, was designed by a Russian architect that used Western styles to give foreign banquet guests a feel of being acknowledged and welcomed. Local officials marveled at the infusion, thinking that this is a way to quietly view the world without leaving Seoul.

Gojong’s reasoning as to why he increased the Western influence is to make Korea seem like a modern and forward country, with the hopes at the time of keeping the Japanese at bay. Seokjojeon Hall is a far cry from Korean architecture; instead of wood it is made of stone, and is known as Korea’s first European-style building . 

What a lot of people don’t know is that there’s a 45-minute tour of Seokjojeon Hall that lets you see the reception room on the first floor, and then take you to the upper floors where the central hall and the private bedrooms (including royal bathrooms) are located.

If you firmly believe in superstitions, I've been told by locals not to bring your lover near the stone wall, because the ghosts of the palace servants hated to see couples happy, and would curse them to eventually break up. 

Changgyeonggung Palace

Hours : closed on Mondays; 9AM to 9PM

How to Get There : Hyehwa Station (Line 4, Exit 2), ride the Bus 301 at the Hyehwa Station-Marrionier Park Bus Station (혜화역.미로니에공원 정류장(01220)) then get off at the Changgyeonggung Palace – Seoul National University Hospital Bus Station (창경궁.서올대학교병원 정류장(01002))

Found in the middle of Seoul, this was erected by King Sejong as a gift to his father, King Taejong. Most of the people housed here over the years were queens and concubines. Eventually, this place was renovated during the time of King Seongjong, to ensure the comfort of his mother and grandmother as well as the other elders in his family.

This is why the living quarters in this palace are bigger compared to the other Seoul palaces. However, this was also the source of many royal family issues, like the brewing hatred between the king and the crown prince, and the queen’s nasty attitude towards the royal consorts.

Other horrible secrets include the death of Prince Sado after his father, King Yeongjo, ordered to have him locked up in a rice chest. Sado was also not a good guy, either – but hey, all of these are just some of the fascinating tales you'll learn on your visit here.

Sadly, this was also one of the palaces attacked during the Japanese occupation, turned into a botanical garden and zoo. Said botanical garden was also patterned like a famous one in France, which is why it’s so elaborately Western and huge – huge enough to be considered the largest botanical garden in Asia at the time.

Only the botanical garden remains standing today. Just a short walk from this place is Jongmyo Shrine, where the ancestral tables of kings and queens of Joseon Dynasty are entombed.

Special Mention: Unhyeongung Royal Residence

Hours : closed on Mondays; 9AM to 7PM

How to Get There : Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 4)

This is not a Seoul Palace per se, but it could qualify as one for many, because it’s widely known as the residence of King Gojong’s father: Heungseon Daewongun. The reason it’s featured here is because most historically important events of the Joseon period took place within the walls of this residential home. 

If you're a fan of historical K-Dramas, you've probably seen some part of this residence. That’s why, if you come see it in person, you’ll be treated to informative details on how royalty used to live in relatively recent times.

Every room in here contains a mannequin of people dressed in various types of hanboks that displayed their social status. Other events also feature the royal wedding ceremony reenactment, which allows you to have a glimpse of how King Gojong and Empress Myeongseong were wed. 

Best Tours of Seoul Palaces

Walking around the palaces is better if you have a guide educating you thoroughly about what you are seeing and experiencing. It’s also fun to hear inside stories and facts about the area that may even make you want to do more research on Korean history and the lives of the people who resided there.

• Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace

Visit the most beautiful palace in Seoul at night—even though the garden is gorgeous during the day, it is ten times more breathtaking at night. Book your tour on Changdeokgung’s website.

• Seoul Historic Walking Tour

This tour allows you stop at Changdeokgung during the day, and even witness the Changing of the Guards Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung. This is an easy tour of Seoul’s palaces that tells you all the fun and hilarious shenanigans the royals got themselves into, plus a bit of history. More details are included in this website .

• Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanok Village

The Hanok Village tour lets you imagine how people from the Joseon Dynasty traveled from the Bukchon Hanok Village to Gyeongbokgung Palace. The beauty about it is that it has activities you and your friends or family can do during the tour.

These include trying on the different hanboks , making your own hanji (traditional paper art), and trying local delicacies of the season. Also, your guide will give you a detailed explanation of Korean architecture as you move from the village to the palace; see the itinerary and the full details on this website .

• Seoul Palace Snap Shooting Tour

Bring a professional photographer along with you as you visit three out of five ancient palaces in Korea! While enjoying the tour, you’ll also be taken to the best spots that truly capture – not only you – but also the intricate Korean architecture serving as your backdrop.

At the very least you can rest reassured that after this tour your photos will definitely be nice. Learn more about this tour here .

FAQ About Palaces in Seoul

There are five palaces in Seoul, all of which were built during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).

Also known as the largest and grandest, it is not a surprise to know that Gyeongbokgung Palace is the most well-known out of the royal palaces in Seoul.

Aside from being known as the most well-preserved palace in Seoul, the beauty about Changdeokgung is that it has a secret garden called the Huwon.

It depends on your preference, but a lot of locals recommend Changdeokgung due to its vibrant scenery and tranquil vibe. But I also feel that Deoksugung is just as wonderful, and most of its elements feel elegant and modern.

Sharing is caring!

Reader Interactions

Personalized says

December 09, 2022 at 3:39 am

Thanks for the recommendations. I'd like to visit here as soon as possible!

December 09, 2022 at 10:57 am

You're very welcome!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

2024 N Seoul Tower Guide: Our Experience, Tickets & Tips

Perched on Namsan Mountain, Namsan Seoul Tower or N Seoul Tower is a famous attraction in Seoul where you can take in the beauty of nature and see sweeping panoramic views of the city. The tower itself is actually a functioning radio wave tower which is still broadcasting signals for Korean media companies like KBS, SBC, and MBC up to now.

BUY N SEOUL TOWER TICKETS

Namsan Seoul Tower became even more popular over the years as it’s been featured in many K-dramas including our all-time favorites Boys Over Flowers (2009), My Love from the Star (2013), The Legend of the Blue Sea (2016), Hotel Del Luna (2019), and Itaewon Class (2020).

Many K-drama fans flock to N Seoul Tower to relive the kilig (romantic) scenes. And as avid K-drama fans ourselves, we regretted not visiting it on our winter trip to South Korea . So, this time, we made sure to add it to our Korea spring itinerary .

We’re so lucky to have a fellow K-drama enthusiast friend who didn’t mind going back to N Seoul Tower for the N-th time (pun intended) just to let us experience this iconic Seoul landmark.

Now, allow us to share our N Seoul Tower experience — from the Namsan cable car ride and love locks up to the observatory tower itself.

N Seoul Tower tickets

N Seoul Tower entrance fees 2024

Here are options to buy your N Seoul tickets:

Option 1: Klook

You can get your N Seoul Tower ticket on Klook for ₩18,900 (₱811 / US$14.15) if you want to access the observatory only. You may also avail of other packages that are inclusive of the cable car ride and other bundles like padlocks and meal sets. See table below:

GET ADMISSION TO N SEOUL

• You have to present your Klook e-Voucher and exchange it for a physical ticket at the Observatory Deck Entrance of N Seoul Tower PLAZA 5F.
• Children two years old and below are free to enter the attraction.

Option 2: Waug

You may also get your Namsan Cable Car ticket on WAUG for ₩10,900 (₱455 / US$8.06). It is the number one activity booking platform in Korea so you’re guaranteed to get the best price for activities and tours in Seoul and beyond.

Option 3: Onsite

If you want to buy onsite, you can get your tickets on the first floor of the N Seoul Tower plaza and at the lobby of the information desk. However, you may have to queue and wait, especially when there are many visitors during your visit.

Also, the N Seoul ticket price is ₩21,000 (₱883 / US$15.70) for adults and ₩16,000 (₱672 / US$12) for children and seniors, which are relatively more expensive than buying the tickets online.

Namsan Seoul Tower operating hours

N Seoul Tower is open daily but the operating hours vary during weekdays and weekends:

• 10.30am to 10.30pm (Weekdays)
• 10am to 11pm (Weekends & Holidays)

Do note that the operating hours may change depending on factors such as weather and maintenance. Be sure to check the updated schedule before your visit.

How to get there

N Seoul Tower is located at 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu in Central Seoul, South Korea .

To get there, you may take the following public transport:

Take the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus No. 01 and alight at Namsan Yejang Bus Transfer Parking Lot. Then, transfer to Nam Mountain Shuttle Bus.

By train + cable car

If you want to ride the cable car going to N Seoul Tower, you should first take the subway to Myeong-dong Station (Line 4). Exit 3 and find the Pacific Hotel. Follow the street on the right side and walk for about 10 to 15 minutes uphill until you reach the cable car boarding point. This was what we opted on our trip.

Namsan Tower floor guide

View the N Seoul Tower map and get acquainted with the different sections, attractions, and shops here. We recommend that you do your planning ahead so you don’t waste your time navigating the area.

Our actual experience

We took the cable car to Namsan Tower and here’s our experience:

On our way to Namsan cable car

After exiting Myeong-dong Station, this colorful Seoul sign welcomed us. At the back of it, you’ll find the Pacific Hotel (light brown building) where you’ll start your walk to Namsan Seoul Tower Cable Car Station.

Our knees were not so prepared for the semi-uphill walk, but we saw some cool cafes, guest houses, and artisan shops along the way. It was worth it, after all!

Finally, we arrived after a 15-minute mini-cardio walk.

Our N Seoul Tower cable car ride

We got our tickets and waited for our turn to ride the cable car.

BOOK N SEOUL + CABLE CAR RIDE

And up we went!

Exploring the love locks

When we arrived, we went up the stairs to check out the famous N Seoul love locks first. You can see them just outside the actual tower. You can either choose to explore the love locks area before entering the observatory or vice versa.

We saw thousands of padlocks on the walkway walls, benches, and even on lamp posts. We wondered how people got to put padlocks on the lamp posts, though.

Legend has it that when couples lock a padlock here and throw away the key, their love will be locked forever . Do you believe in it? May forever ba talaga ? (Is there really a forever?) You better test it by coming here with your one true love. *winks*

We spotted some padlocks with sweet messages and promises of love — some we find romantic, others a bit too much? Haha!

Going up the observatory

While waiting for the elevator that’ll take us to the observatory, there’s this media art space featuring Korean culture and art in a kaleidoscope of colors. You have to see it for yourself!

We finally reached the observatory! Here, we saw a breathtaking 360-degree view of Seoul and the surrounding area. There are also shops selling Korean souvenirs and sweet treats.

How often can you find a toilet with a view? The toilets here have transparent glass windows that let you see stunning views from above. This is by far the most IG-worthy toilet we’ve ever used!

You may find it awkward at first, but trust us, no one can see you at such a high altitude.

On the glass panels of the observatory, you’ll find some capital cities and their distance from N Seoul Tower. Cool, right? Of course, we had to look for our very own Manila, Philippines.

Dining at N Seoul Tower

If you’re already feeling peckish, you can eat at any of N Seoul Tower cafes and restaurants . As for us, we had lunch at Owl’s Cutlet and ordered different flavors of donkkaseu (pork cutlet). Yum!

As always, it’s Kevin’s treat. We really don’t know how to repay him for everything.

Friendly reminders

• You’ll be walking most of the time, so make sure that you wear a good pair of shoes and comfy clothes fit for the season. We came here in spring, and it was still windy and freezing cold so we had to layer up.
• Expect to spend at least 3-4 hours to fully enjoy this top attraction in Seoul.
• Food and drinks are not allowed inside, but you may eat at any of the cafes and restaurants or have a picnic at the square in front of the Palgakjeong pavilion.
• Pets are also not allowed inside Namsan Seoul Tower.
• Smoking is strictly prohibited as it is within the National Parks Act.

That’s it! We’ll leave the rest to your own exploration. 즐기세요 (Jeulgiseyo)!

VISIT N SEOUL TOWER!

If you are already planning your Korea trip, check out our other Korean articles:

• Best Korean street food in Seoul
• Best Korean souvenirs
• Korea SIM card and pocket WiFi guide
• Korean words and phrases for travelers
• Korean visa guide for Filipinos
• Korean visa guide for self-employed Filipinos
• Korean visa in Cebu

Popular experiences in Seoul

Premium hotels in seoul.

*Special thanks to Kevin, our good friend who went the extra mile to take us to N Seoul Tower and other parts of Seoul we haven’t explored before. 고마워요 (Gomawoyo)!

The 5 Best DMZ Tours From Seoul [2024 Reviews]

It’s no secret that Seoul has become one of the hottest travel destinations in recent years, from the explosion of K-POP to the centuries-old temples and rich history. Of course, just like everywhere else in the world, South Korea also has its fair share of tourist traps.

One thing’s for sure, though, you won’t regret taking a DMZ tour! This journey into the heart of Asian history takes you to the edge of two very different worlds, with palpable tension and stories forever etched into the landscape.

Whether you’re a history buff or would simply like to explore the “path less traveled”, you’re going to be fascinated by these top tours of the DMZ from Seoul! Let’s jump right in!

Best DMZ Tours From Seoul

Quick answer: the 5 best rated dmz tours from seoul for 2024.

• Private DMZ the 3rd Tunnel Tour from Seoul (No Forced Shopping)
• DMZ Full day with Gloucester Memorial & Suspension Bridge Tour
• From Seoul: DMZ, 3rd Tunnel & Suspension Bridge Guided Tour
• Best DMZ 3rd Infiltration Tunnel Tour from Seoul (No Shopping)
• Free Style Private Tour(Seoul/DMZ)

DMZ Tour Reviews

1. private dmz the 3rd tunnel tour from seoul (no forced shopping).

• Duration: 8 hours
• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off available
• Departure Time: 7:30, 8:30, 9:30 AM
• Includes: Professional English-speaking guide, transportation, all taxes & fees

Let’s start things off on the right foot with one of the most unique tours one can take in South Korea!

The Private DMZ the 3rd Tunnel Tour from Seoul  will lead you through this incredibly important historical site with an expert guide who will provide you with cultural context throughout your time with them.

If you have a full day available and would like to see the country in a different perspective, look no further than this excursion. The Korean Demilitarized Zone, more commonly-known as “the DMZ”, is the most heavily-fortified border on the planet.

It’s definitely not all fun and games, but this “real deal” experience will get you as close as possible to experiencing the tension, mysteries, and stories that have unfolded between these two divided nations.

Around 4km wide, this modern-day “No Man’s Land” doesn’t allow any  military personnel, activities, and much less, civilians. The only exception to this rule is a place called the “Joint Security Area”, which is a neutral ground where soldiers from both sides come together for talks and negotiation.

Expand To See More See Less

One of the highlights of the tour was climbing the heights of the Dora Observatory, complete with high-powered binoculars for you to see the North’s propaganda village.

When the weather is clear, you may even be able to see the bronze statue of Kim Il-sung, casting a watchful eye over the divide.

Then, you’ll get to see the Third Tunnel subterranean passage discovered in the 1970s and stretching nearly 2,000 meters long. This secret conduit screams espionage and conspiracy, with North Korea having built it then denying it.

Oh boy, there are a ton of interesting stories surrounding it and your guide will fill you in on some of the most captivating.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. dmz full day with gloucester memorial & suspension bridge tour.

• Duration: 9 hours
• Departure Time: 7:00 AM
• Includes: Full-day tour of the DMZ and suspension bridge, professional guide, all fees and taxes

Next up, we have a full-day tour that will take you for an immersive experience through some of the most iconic locations around South Korea.

The DMZ Full Day with Gloucester Memorial & Suspension Bridge Tour is full of thrills, intrigue, and incredible views to the unknown. With a guide to share historical accounts and plenty of personal stories with each location visit, you’re sure to view the country from a different viewpoint!

Starting off at 7:00 am, you’ll be picked up right from your hotel by your professional guide in a climate-controlled coach with plenty of legroom and big windows.

Upon arrival to Imjingak Park, you’ll get to see the Freedom Bridge and old steam trains, which was pretty cool by itself. The guide was there to teach us about the Korean War and the sacrifices that needed to be made, which only enriched the experience.

While I enjoyed the entire tour, the most memorable part for me was seeing the Gloucestershire Regiment “Gloster Hill”, which commemorates the actions of the regiment and C Troop, 17th Mortar Battery, Royal Artillery of the British Army during the Battle of the Imjin River.

Nearby is the incredible rope bridge known as the “Gloucester Heroes Bridge” which was a bloody battle field during the Korean War. Today, it stands as the longest suspension bridge in the country, sitting over 700 meters above sea level!

Finally, you’ll get to see the DMZ exhibition hall and learn about the old weapons, which was pretty cool! Next, make the walk over to the Third Tunnel which was made by North Korea, who actually claimed the South had constructed it with the intention of a guerilla attack!

The Dora Observatory was crazy to see, showing you a peek into North Korea’s propaganda village with the high-powered telescopes.

3. From Seoul: DMZ, 3rd Tunnel & Suspension Bridge Guided Tour

• Departure:  65-6 Chungmuro 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
• Departure Time:  7:00 AM
• Includes: Licensed professional guide, roundtrip transfer from Seoul, admission fees to DMZ, monotrail tour in 3rd tunnel or walking tour for shared tour option

This next tour is one of my favorites, seamlessly combining incredible nature views with the rich and varied history of South Korea. If you consider yourself an adventurous person who enjoys those “more unique” tourist sites, this one’s for you!

The DMZ, 3rd Tunnel & Suspension Bridge Guided Tour  is one of the only ways you can actually see a glimpse of North Korea in person, offering a deep dive into the history of the area.

First things first, though: you’ll have to pick either the private or the shared tour option. For the private tour, you’ll travel with only your party and go on a monorail tour in the Third Tunnel.

For the shared tour option, you’ll obviously be traveling with strangers and will instead go on a walking tour in the Third Tunnel – either way, they’re great options!

After being picked up from your hotel, you’ll arrive and get to see the Freedom Bridge, Mangbaedan Altar, as well as an old steam locomotive that was destroyed during the Korean War.

Your guide will be there to tell you all about how the Korean War affected the country and landscape – particularly on the border. You’ll then visit 4 different locations at the DMZ, starting with the Third Infiltration Tunnel.

Whether you’re walking or monorailing in, you’re sure to get a bit of a creepy vibe as you enter this “lair”. After, check out the Dorasan Observatory, which allows you to see into North Korea from their superpowered binoculars!

You can also choose to explore some Unification Villages located in a buffer zone and is civilian controlled by the government. Then take a hike around 15 to 20 minutes and appreciate the Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, which has quite the intense history of its own.

If time allows, you’ll even get to see the Majang Suspension Bridge located right at a glass-like lake perfect for taking some photos.

4. Best DMZ 3rd Infiltration Tunnel Tour from Seoul (No Shopping)

• Duration: 7.5 hours
• Departure Time: Varies
• Includes: Professional English-speaking guide, all taxes and fees

You know what’s really annoying when you’re on a trip and trying to maximize your time by seeing as many interesting things as possible?

When your tour guide “forces” you and your group to go shopping at specific stores and markets. There’s none of that nonsense with this next tour – the Best DMZ 3rd Infiltration Tunnel Tour from Seoul is all about learning in a fun and interesting way!

This is another one of my top recommendations if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Seoul. You’ll get picked up in the morning by your guide and make the trip on a comfortable, air-conditioned coach with plenty of unobstructed views along the way.

Right from the get-go, I did notice that our guide did a fantastic job at providing detail and easy-to-digest historical accounts and personal anecdotes which made it that much more fascinating.

Upon arrival, you’ll get to see the Imjingak Pyeonghoa-Nuri park and learn about how it was constructed to house the refugees who left North Korea during the Korean War.

After that, check out the Bridge of Freedom which was also made to free almost 13,000 prisoners during the war. It’s not only incredibly moving to learn about, it’s set in one of the most beautiful natural settings ideal for photo ops!

After that, it’s time to head to the DMZ Theater where you’ll watch a short film about the war, and the South Korean perspective on it. You’ll learn how the DMZ came to be what it is today, as well as get time to walk through the creepy Third Infiltration Tunnel.

It definitely gives you a deeper understanding of just how serious this situation is, and the photos and artifacts only help.

5. Free Style Private Tour(Seoul/DMZ)

• Duration: 7 to 8 hours
• Includes: Air-conditioned vehicle, private transportation, English-speaking guide

One thing that many people may be turned off about tours, is that you’re obligated to go on one set schedule. The great thing, is that many tours offer the option of creating a custom itinerary designed around your specific interests!

The Free Style Private Tour (Seoul/DMZ) is one of my favorites, catering to your tastes to ensure you’ll see the things you’re most captivated by!

If you’re a history buff, or really into Korean culture or food, you can tell your guide and they’ll create a personalized agenda just for that. While the tours will never be exactly the same, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Start off with your guide picking you right up from your hotel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle made to transport only you and the rest of your party.

As you do get to choose, it’s quite possibly the best way to maximize your time in Korea – especially if it’s your first time there and/or you are there for only a couple of days.

While it’s not necessary, I definitely recommend going to the Gyungbokgung Palace, which is the most popular of the 5 in total in the city. You can then head up by car to the top of the mountain peak, whick offers some of the most breathtaking views of Seoul possible.

After that, head to a local eatery for a delicious, traditionally Korean lunch which has been reviewed by some of the top publications in the world. Follow it up with a trip up to the N-Seoul Tower by cable car, or head over to the DMZ, of course!

The DMZ, as you already know by now, is a must-see and is the one way to really gain insight into the tension between these two neighboring nations.

FAQs About the Korean DMZ

Q: what is the dmz in korea.

A: The DMZ or Demilitarized Zone, is a strip of land the is about 2.5 miles wide the runs across the Korean Peninsula near the 38th parallel north. It’s a buffer between North and South Korea, that are still technically at war because the war ended with an armistice and not a peace agreement.

Q: Do I have to take a tour to visit the DMZ?

A: Yes, you can only go to the DMZ on a guided tour. You can book them online or through travel agencies. You can take a half-day, full-day, or private tours, that show you different sites and activities in the DMZ. The most popular attraction is the Joint Security Area (JSA) which is where negotiations took place. The Third Tunnel of Aggression, was dug by North Korea to infiltrate South Korea and the Dora Observatory where you can see North Korea with a telescope.

Q: Is it safe to visit the DMZ?

A: You may be wondering if it’s safe to visit the DMZ. While the Korean DMZ is considered “the world’s most dangerous border”, there is no danger to visitors. Just make sure you follow the rules and instructions of the tour guides.

Tour Guides

The Private DMZ the 3rd Tunnel Tour from Seoul is our Editors Choice for the best DMZ tour from Seoul.

Richard Remick

Related articles, the 5 best taj majal tours from new delhi [2024 reviews], the 5 best halong bay cruises [2024 reviews], ▷ the 5 best hanoi city tours [2024 reviews], ▷ the 5 best mekong delta & cu chi tunnels tours [2024 reviews].

Salem tour guides could soon be required to pay licensing fees

The proposed fee, paid annually, would cost tour guides with groups of 10 or less $150, groups of 11 to 29  $250, and groups of 30 to 40 $350, by jericho tran • published april 18, 2024 • updated on april 18, 2024 at 8:10 pm.

While tourism can be a real treat in Salem , Massachusetts, the city says the costs are tricky. 

“Costs are starting to get close to a point where they’ll exceed the direct revenues the city brings in from things like parking and license fees,” said Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo. 

The city can draw tens of thousands of visitors a day during the busy Halloween season . With more licensed tour guides in the city as the area continues to grow in popularity, a change in license fees was proposed during the city council meeting last week. 

According to a letter from the mayor to city councilors, there are 175 licensed tour guides in the city, up from 28 in 2006 when the original ordinance went into effect.

Get Boston local news, weather forecasts, lifestyle and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC Boston’s newsletters.

Tour guides who spoke with NBC10 Boston say the proposal came as a surprise.

“We found out about this on a Wednesday night and the city council meeting was on a Thursday and so we have less than 24 hours to put our ducks in a row,” said Jeffrey Lilley, a tour guide at Salem Uncovered. 

The proposed fee, paid annually, would cost tour guides with groups of 10 or less $150, groups of 11 to 29  $250, and groups of 30 to 40 $350. It also includes a discount of $50 for guides who don't use any form of amplification.  It also increases fees for violations.

“This year, my license cost me $10. Next year they want me to pay $350. I employ a few guides in the season so that would be $1,400 that I would then I have to spend on guide fees,” said Lilley. 

While Pangallo says this should only be the difference of adding a few extra cents to ticket prices, tour guides disagree.

“To say it's just a few cents on a ticket well then that would mean me imposing on a ticket which is technically not legal.”

If passed in the public hearing, the proposal would go into effect as soon as January 2025. 

“Hopefully we come out with a resolution that fits everyone's needs, and is something we can shoulder and something that's gonna benefit the city,” said Lilley. 

More from Salem

Man charged in pipe bombing of Satanic Temple in Salem

Salem weighs ‘no camping' order to ban homeless people's tents

Where's Hannah? Exploring the Harbor Sweets Factory in Salem

This article tagged under:.