Tours/Viator
Viator · group up to 10 pax

My Brandnew Old Seoul: Bukchon Native Storytelling Walk

5.0(30)1 hour
VIATOR5.0(27)TRIPADVISOR5.0(3)

Description

☀️ JULY & AUGUST ONLY! ☀️ SUMMER SPECIAL DISCOUNT ⏰ NEW EARLIER START TIME: 9:00 AM (Changed from 10:00 AM) Beat the heat. Beat the crowds. Enjoy more of your day. I grew up in Bukchon, long before it became one of Seoul’s most visited neighborhoods. In February 2025, I began the Bukchon Storytelling Tour with nervous excitement. Since then, I’ve met guests from around the world, and their generous reviews and kind feedback have been deeply rewarding. This walking tour explores Bukchon, a neighborhood once at the center of Korean politics, economy, and culture from 1392 to the 1980s. Guided by a storyteller born and raised in Bukchon—now a filmmaker and university screenwriting professor—you’ll walk its winding alleys and discover the stories hidden within them. Please note before booking: • Recommended for participants aged 13 and above, as the tour focuses on storytelling and historical context.

Tour Options

Bukchon Plus: Craft & Secrets
  • Experience hands-on traditional Korean crafts and visit one of the most beautiful hanoks — and more. Duration: 3 hours: Includes a traditional handicraft workshop and extended hidden hanok walk
Bukchon Classic Walk
  • Bukchon Classic Walk : Guided walk through Bukchon’s alleys and traditional hanok.

Itinerary

20 min

When the king dies without a crown prince, an 11-year-old royal boy born and raised here becomes the 26th king of Joseon. For the next 10 years, the boy's father would rule the country from here. Learn about the fascinating history of Unhyeonggung Palace and marvel at the outstanding architecture of the time.

10 min

Admire historic architecture from 600, 100, and 50 years ago and learn the stories behind them.

10 min

Learn about and appreciate the hanoks of the Yangban, the ruling class, who usually lived in Seoul.

10 min

I'll tell you stories about the wells you heard as a child and what history has revealed about them.

10 min

The high school is known for filming countless dramas and music videos, but it's actually a historic space that helped shape Korea into the country it is today. Here's the story behind its secret history.

20 min

We trace the dramatic rise and fall of powerful politicians and business tycoons who once held land in Bukchon — a district chosen as the capital under the principles of feng shui. Revered as an auspicious site, this coveted land became both the foundation of their wealth and influence, and the backdrop to their eventual downfall.

15 min

The man who changed the face of Bukchon in the 1920s and 30s

Highlights

Traditional Korean handicraft experience (available with the Plus Tour only)
Professional guide from Bukchon

What's included

Included
Traditional Korean handicraft experience (available with the Plus Tour only)
Professional guide from Bukchon
Not included
Travel Insurance
Hotel pick-up service
Personal expenses
Coffee and/or Tea

Traveller Ratings

5.0
30 reviews
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Important Information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • While we welcome everyone, please note that the storytelling walking tour may be challenging for children aged 12 and under. We kindly recommend that they refrain from participating.
  • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level

Reviews(30)

5.0
Based on 30 verified reviews
Read all 30 reviews on Viator →