Tours/Seoul/Seoul History Walking Tour
Viator · group up to 8 pax

Seoul History Walking Tour

5.0(14)Seoul1 hour
VIATOR5.0(7)TRIPADVISOR5.0(7)

Description

Journey through Seoul's 630 years of history, step-by-step, with an Australian tour guide. This tour walks you through the historical center of Seoul, tracing Korea's evolution from the Joseon Dynasty to a modern, global powerhouse. Discover the legacy of pivotal figures like King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, and learn about South Korea's struggle for democracy against dictatorship.

Tour Options

Seoul History Walking Tour

Itinerary

15 min

Why did the city bells ring 28 times at night and 33 times in the morning?

40 min

What did this stream provide Seoul throughout the Joseon Dynasty, Korean War, and in modern times?

5 min

How is Seoul City Hall an architectural gem, both inside and out?

10 min

How does this plaza reflect the hearts of modern citizens?

10 min

How much of the palace and cityscape reveals itself from this perch?

10 min

Why do Koreans say that if you walk along this stone wall with your spouse, you will soon be divorced?

10 min

How did Imperial Japan force Korea to surrender its independence?

10 min

How did Korea's first school for girls change societal views on women's roles?

20 min

Why did Korea's penultimate monarch flee his palace in the middle of the night and stay here for a year?

10 min

How did this general save Korea and change the course of world history? (no exaggeration)

10 min

Why is Sejong considered the greatest king of the Joseon Dynasty?

25 min

How many protests does it take to change a democracy?

15 min

How much history can you see from the rooftop?

10 min

Why is this the site of the world's longest running protest?

10 min

How does the ringing of bells connect us with the universe?

Highlights

Traditional Korean snacks.
An informative memento of the tour.

What's included

Included
Traditional Korean snacks.
An informative memento of the tour.
Not included
Bottled water

Traveller Ratings

5.0
14 reviews
5
14
4
0
3
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2
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1
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Important Information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews(14)

J
Julie_C
May 20, 2026
Very informative tour

We had a fantastic time on this tour despite the rainy weather. Eric was friendly, knowledgeable and made the day both informative and enjoyable. The itinerary was very well planned, with a great mix of history, culture and local highlights. We especially appreciated the extra information and photo links provided afterwards, a very thoughtful touch. Highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting an engaging and authentic experience.

Operator response

Thank you Julie for your kind words. The photos will show you what landmarks are like on a clear day.

E
Erika_S
April 26, 2026
A sunny day in Seoul made...

A sunny day in Seoul made even better by an expert-led walking tour. Eric is remarkably knowledgeable, effortlessly bridging the gap between historic Korean heritage and contemporary life. His commentary turned a simple stroll into a fascinating masterclass on the city’s evolution.

Operator response

Thank you Erika for your kind words. We were lucky to have such great weather.

A
Ashwin_G
April 1, 2026
History tour with Eric

This was an incredible and in depth tour on the history of the different dynasty’s that ruled Korea as well as more recent history post the Korean War. Eric’s knowledge was extremely impressive and he had the most in detail oriented answer to almost every question we asked. He also made most of the tour in chronological order making it easy to follow and remember. Of all the tours globally I’ve done on history this is one of the top for sure - highly recommend.

Operator response

Thank you Ashwin for your kind words. I was happy to receive your insightful questions.

A
Anthony_E
March 17, 2026
The tour was great, I...

The tour was great, I learned a lot about the city and its history, as well as the history of South Korea. Eric is knowledgeable and passionate about history and made the tour fun while you learn more than just the headlines about the city. This was one of my favorite experiences of my trip. Would highly recommend.

Operator response

Thank you Anthony for your kind words. I'm glad it was fun.

S
Senead_B
February 22, 2026
Chilean in Korea

Eric knows a lot about the history of the city of Seoul and is able to supplement it with current data from the country. It is a very good tour for those who want to know more about the history of the city and the Korean people. I highly recommend it. Eric is a very attentive guide. English is not my first language and despite this we were able to communicate well in English, with very good explanations from you. The day of the tour was very cold and took me some Korean hotpacks to keep my hands warm.

Operator response

Thank you Senead for your kind words. It was a pleasure meeting you.

M
Mark_W
June 7, 2025
Outstanding History Tour

Book this history tour with Eric! I’ve visited many countries, had great experiences with all my walking tours, but can honestly say this tour with Eric was exceptional. From the start to the end the information gained has helped me have a greater understanding of the history and culture of Seoul South Korea and Korean Peninsula. As the tour progressed I began to feel immersed an able to understand what was being said, not always the case with all of my History Tours in the past. I felt very comfortable chatting with Eric as the tour unfolded. I very much appreciated being able to as for greater clarity on some of the issues. If you’re reading this review don’t hesitate book it, you won’t be disappointed. Thanks Eric usually the next day I’ve forgotten some of the dates that are given on tours. But seem to have remembered most that you gave me.

Operator response

Thank you Mark for your kind words. I hope to see you once more when you visit Korea again.

S
Susie_O
March 19, 2025
Seoul adventure.

I had a wonderful afternoon exploring parts of Seoul, with an excellent guide who answered many questions along the way.

Operator response

Thank you Susie for your kind words.

D
darronk2015
February 12, 2025
Well informed guide

Well versed in Korean history and culture with a passion. Was patient given my mistake in arriving at Bosingak Bell (Museum) instead of Bosingak Bell Pavilion!

Operator response

Thank you Darron for your kind words. Glad you eventually made it.

9
957trevorp
November 2, 2024
Fantastic Experience

Great for a first day in Korea. I did this tour at the end of my trip, but I wish I did it on day one. Eric presented an interesting overview of Korean history and even found vegetarian restaurants near my hotel.

Operator response

Thank you Trevor for your kind words. Glad it was helpful.

D
danaaW8135TM
October 30, 2024
Great time in Seoul!

Very interesting interesting and knowledgable guide, Eric did a fantastic job of taking us to some historical sites and telling us the history of Korea, with some fun anecdotes. We highly recommend Eric if you are interested in the history of Korea and the interesting party's of Seoul.

Operator response

Thank you Dana for your kind words.

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