Free tour

Gwanghwamun & Gyeongbokgung Palace + Bukchon Option : Through the heart of Seoul

5.00

Excellent(5)

Seoul

Duration: 2 hours

Languages: English

Guru: Stella

Registered on 13 February 2026

After 31 years working at a foreign embassy, I became a licensed tour guide to follow my lifelong passion for travel and culture. This newly launched tour is led by a licensed guide with years of experience welcoming international visitors to Seoul, blending professional knowledge with a warm, personal approach. On this tour, we’ll explore the heart of Seoul, from the historic Gwanghwamun and majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace to hidden local gems that only a city insider knows. Along the way, I’ll share Korea’s rich history, fascinating royal stories, and the connections to popular K-dramas that many travelers love. My greatest joy is helping visitors feel at home, savoring Korea’s authentic cuisine, and experiencing the city’s vibrant culture firsthand. For me, a good walk is not just about sightseeing, but about healing, connection, and meaningful stories that you can carry home with you. Let’s discover Seoul together, like friends, and see the city through the eyes of someone who knows it intimately.

Free reservation and cancellation

Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free

Tour description

Discover the cultural heart of Seoul on this relaxing 2-hour walking tour from Gwanghwamun Square to Gyeongbokgung Palace + an optional Bukchon Hanok village with a licensed local guide.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to understand Korean history and culture or explore K-drama filming locations in an easy, engaging, and meaningful way.

At Gwanghwamun Square, you will discover the stories of the Joseon Dynasty, King Sejong, and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, and experience how Korea’s past and present come together in one dynamic space.

As we walk toward the palace, your guide will share stories about royal life and traditional architecture, while also offering helpful tips for traveling in Korea and insights into Korean food and local culture.

Inside and around the palace area, you will discover beautiful photo spots and hidden details of Korean design, including palace gates, rooftops, and courtyards.

We can continue walk towards and through the Bukchon hanok village based on your interests. (Tour hour can extend to 3 hours depending on your interests or pace of the walk).

Discover Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional homes and local daily life exist side by side.

Enjoy a respectful walking tour through hidden alleys while learning the stories of this living heritage from your local guide.

This walking tour is ideal for first-time visitors and those who prefer a relaxed pace with time for questions and photos.

At the end of the tour, your guide can recommend local restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy authentic Korean food on your own.

Join this tour to experience Seoul’s history, culture, and stories with a friendly local guide.

Please note: This tour is offered in English only. Automatic translations are for information purposes.

Payment: This tour operates on a pay-what-you-feel basis. Most guests typically contribute USD 20 /KRW30,000 – USD50/KRW75,000 per person in cash at the end of the tour.

Entrance ticket for the Gyeongbokgung palace 2£ (KRW3,000) is not included and should be paid on site.

Cancellation: If you need to cancel, please let me know at least 24 hours in advance whenever possible.

Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:

the King Sejong the Great statue at Gwanghwamun Square.

I will be waiting in front of the Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin at Gwanghwamun Square. I will contact you in advance with exact details.

Outside visit

Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace - Gwanghwamun Grand Gate

The grand main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace and a symbol of Seoul’s history.

Entry not included

Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace - Main Throne Hall

Geunjeongjeon is the main throne hall of Gyeongbokgung Palace. It symbolizes royal authority and state ceremonies of the Joseon Dynasty.

Outside visit

Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace - Gyeonghoiroo Banquet hall

A royal banquet pavilion built on water, showing the elegance of Joseon palace architecture.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and $50 per participant.