Free tour
A Journey Through Late 19th–Early 20th Century Seoul
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Guru: Carl
Registered on 12 December 2025
I am a government-licensed Tour Interpretation Guide, and I have completed PhD coursework in History, specializing in Modern Korea–Japan Relations.
Free reservation and cancellation
Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free
Tour description
Discover how Seoul transformed during one of the most dramatic and dynamic periods in Korean history.
This 4-hour walking tour takes you through the heart of the Korean Empire, where diplomacy, monarchy, religion, and culture converged as the country opened to the world.
Our journey begins at the Seoul Museum of History, where we explore how Seoul evolved from a walled Joseon-era capital into a modern city.
We then walk into Jeong-dong, one of the most historically layered neighborhoods in Seoul.
Jeong-dong represents the moment when Korea began engaging with the outside world and experimenting with modern institutions.
At the center of Jeong-dong stands Deoksugung Palace, closely associated with King Gojong, the last king and first emperor of Korea.
Unlike other palaces, Deoksugung uniquely blends traditional Korean palace buildings with Western-style architecture, symbolizing Korea’s uneasy transition from tradition to modernity.
Our walk concludes at the Jeong-dong Observatory, offering one of the most meaningful views in Seoul.
From here, you can see Deoksugung’s palace roofs in the foreground and modern skyscrapers in the distance, capturing centuries of Korean history in a single panorama.
Additional costs: small entrace fee of about 0.70USD for Deoksugung Palace
Highlights
What will we see on this tour?
Meeting point:
Seoul Museum of History
I will be in front of the main entrance at the center of the Seoul Museum of History, wearing a black backpack.
1
Outside visit
Jeongdong-gil
Walk the historic path used by King Gojong, surrounded by 19th-century legations, mission schools, and the earliest modern institutions.
2
Entry not included
Deoksugung Palace
Explore the palace where Korea’s empire period began and ended, blending traditional and Western architectural styles.
3
Free entry
Jeongdong Observatory
Enjoy a panoramic view of Deoksugung and the historic Jeong-dong district from above.
How much does this tour cost?
Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end the amount they consider appropriate (amounts usually range from €15 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).
Who is this tour for?
Accessibility
Not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Does not accept large group bookings.
Pets
Not suitable for bringing pets.
What should I know?
Minimum attendees
Requires a minimum of 4 people to conduct the tour.
Additional costs
The tour requires payment for entries or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Cash payment only.
A Journey Through Late 19th–Early 20th Century Seoul
