Essential Korean tour
An Immersive Dive Into Korean Culture
We’re back with an Experience-Based EK Tour this fall, offering a rich blend of cultural and culinary adventures! Immerse yourself in authentic slices of Korean culture and live them fully through our EK Fall Tour programs.
Each tour has been thoughtfully designed by Kay샘 alongside her friends, —Hannah, a certified cultural tour specialist with a passion for unique spaces, photography, and travel, and SoHee, an EK Friend known for sharing her home-cooking experiences with the EK community. They will guide and host the programs, providing personal attention and sharing their genuine enthusiasm for introducing you to the rich tapestry of Korean culture.
We are proud to say that the EK Tour programs have been crafted with love and care, ensuring that all participants leave with fond and warm memories of their experiences.
Custom Eyewear, Lunch, & Local Boutique Stamp Tour
Dates: 10/8, 10/15, 10/22
Meeting Point: Exit 5, 회현역 Hoehyeon Station, Line 4
Program Hours: 10 AM - 2 PM
Price: $80-$70 (for additional friends or family)
Lunch included in the price, featuring a delicious bibimbap-noodle combo!
You’ll step into the vibrant heart of Seoul with this unique, experience-based program at Namdaemun Market. During the half-day adventure, you’ll have an opportunity to dive into the culture, craft your own style, and engage with local artisans while getting custom-made eyeglasses, which Korea is known for with quick and exceptional service at affordable prices!
Tour Highlights:
Interactive Language Experience: Start with a brief but impactful language lesson, complete with a handout prepared by Essential Korean, preparing phrases you can use to engage with the local shopkeepers. Our guide, Hannah, will assist with translations, allowing you to be as independent as you wish.
Custom-Made Eyeglasses: Obtain high-quality, fast-service eyeglasses. Depending on your country of origin, you'll find the prices in Korea to be very competitive, with the added benefit of having your complete pair crafted within just a few hours, including eye exams.
Local Boutique Stamp Tour: Explore unique boutique shops near Namdaemun Market. Collect stamps and experience a different vibe from the bustling market while discovering distinctive local products.
Korean Lunch Experience: Enjoy a traditional Korean lunch featuring a bibimbap-noodle combo, one of Namdaemun Market’s iconic dishes.
Photography by Hannah: Capture your adventure with wonderful snapshots taken by our guide, Hannah. All photos will be shared with participants in a folder for you to cherish and remember.
Our tour programs are dedicated to providing an authentic and immersive experience, completely independent of any commercial ties to the venues we visit.
Custom Hanbok & Street-Food Sampling at Namdaemun Market
Dates: 10/8, 10/15, 10/22
Meeting Point: Exit 5, 회현역 Hoehyeon Station, Line 4
Program Hours: 3 PM - 7 PM
Price: $80-$70 (for additional friends or family)
Sampling of street-food items included in the price!
Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Namdaemun Market, where tradition meets modernity. Engage with skilled local artisans to order a custom-made Hanbok tailored to your personal style and preferences. Whether you seek a traditional design or something with a modern twist, our guide will assist you in communicating your vision to the vendors, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. Please note, your custom Hanbok will be ready for pickup in a few days at the shop or delivered to your hotel, allowing you to continue your journey without delay.
In addition, you’ll be on a culinary adventure through the market's food stalls. Sample a variety of popular Korean street foods. Each bite offers a taste of Korea’s vibrant street food culture.
Tour Highlights:
Interactive Language Experience: Begin the tour with a brief language lesson, complete with a handout from Essential Korean, to help you navigate the market and interact with vendors, enhancing your understanding and enjoyment of Korean culture.
Custom-Made Hanbok Experience: Design and tailor a traditional Korean dress.
Street-Food Exploration: Delight in the tastes of Namdaemun as you try various popular Korean street-food items.
Photography by Guide Hannah: Continue to capture your journey with photographs taken by our guide, Hannah. All photos will be shared with participants in a folder for you to cherish and remember.
Our tour programs are dedicated to providing an authentic and immersive experience, completely independent of any commercial ties to the venues we visit.
Traditional Korean Percussion at Yonsei University
Dates: 10/10, 10/18, 10/24
Meeting Point: Yonsei University Main Gate
Tour Hours: 10 AM - 2 PM
Price: $80-$70 (for additional friends or family)
Lunch in the campus cafeteria included in the price!
This program is a hands-on percussion workshop at Yonsei University, renowned for its vibrant academic atmosphere and rich history. You’ll learn to play kkwaenggwari (꽹가리), janggu (장구), buk (북), and sogo (소고) while gaining an understanding of their cultural significance.This tour offers a deep connection to traditional Korean music, set against the backdrop of one of Korea’s most prestigious universities.
Program Highlights:
Interactive Language Experience: Begin with a concise and engaging language lesson complete with a handout from Essential Korean. This introduction will boost your confidence in using basic Korean phrases during the workshop and throughout the tour.
Pungmul Instrument Session: Participate in a 90-minute session led by a Yonsei student expert in traditional Korean percussion instruments.
Lunch at Yonsei: Enjoy a meal in the campus cafeteria, frequented by students, offering a slice of daily university life.
Yonsei University Tour: Explore significant landmarks and hidden gems across the campus.
Photography by Guide Hannah: Our guide, Hannah, will document your tour experience, capturing dynamic photos of your activities.
Explore Gwangjang Market's Delights & Unwind in Ikseondong
Dates: 10/10, 10/18, 10/24
Meeting Point: Exit 5, Jongno 5-ga Station, Line
Tour Hours: 4 PM - 7 PM
Price: $70
Note: Price includes all food items sampled during the tour, but beverages and desserts at the café are not included.
You’ll experience the vibrant flavors of Seoul with this Gwangjang Market Culinary Tour, offering a glimpse into the heart of traditional Korean cuisine. Step into a world of Korea's most beloved street foods at the bustling Gwangjang Shijang, one of Korea's oldest and most famous markets. And conclude your culinary exploration with a relaxing tea time at a traditional hanok café in the historic Ikseondong neighborhood.
Program Highlights:
Interactive Language Experience: Kick off the tour with a short, engaging language lesson, complete with handouts from Essential Korean. Get ready to order food and interact with vendors, enriching your culinary adventure.
Culinary Sampling at Gwangjang Market: Taste your way through Gwangjang Market with samples of iconic Korean foods.
Tea Time in Ikseondong: Enjoy tea time at a traditional, serene hanok cafe in the historic Ikseondong neighborhood and reflect on the day’s experiences.
Photography by Guide Hannah: Document your gastronomic journey with beautiful photos taken by our guide, Hannah. Participants will receive a digital folder of images, capturing the flavors and moments of the tour.
Urban Hiking in Ansan and Culinary Adventures in Seoul
Dates: 10/14, 10/21
Meeting Point: Ansan Mountain Trailhead
Tour Hours: 10 AM - 2 PM
Price: $80-$70 (for additional friends or family)
Note: Price includes a delicious lunch during the tour, but beverages and desserts at the café are not included.
Dismissal Point: Hongik University Station, to explore the vibrant Hongdae area at your leisure.
This curated tour blends nature and cuisine in Seoul’s vibrant districts, beginning with a refreshing hike on Ansan Mountain, suited for both novice and seasoned hikers, and concluding with culinary delights in Yeonhui-dong and Yeonnam-dong, where tradition and modernity coexist in a fashionable harmony.
Program Highlights:
Interactive Language Experience: Kick off the tour with a short, engaging language lesson, complete with handouts from Essential Korean, to boost your confidence to interact with locals and enhance your cultural immersion.
Ansan Light Hike: Take a leisurely hike along the scenic trails of Ansan Mountain, offering city views and a serene natural environment. This activity suits all fitness levels and provides a peaceful escape.
Culinary Tour with Lunch in Yeonhui-dong: After the hike, enjoy a delicious lunch in Yeonhui-dong, where local culinary treasures await.
Dessert in Yeonnam-dong: Continue to Yeonnam-dong for a delightful dessert at a trendy café in this fashionable neighborhood.
Photography by Hannah: Capture your moments with wonderful snapshots taken by our guide, Hannah. All photos will be shared with participants in a folder for you to cherish and remember.
Discover Historic Suwon City: Capital of Gyeonggi Province
Dates: 10/17, 10/25
Meeting Point: Exit 5, Jeongja Station (Shinbundan Line)– we will depart by vehicle.
Tour Hours: 10AM - 9 PM
Price: $200 USD (Additional family/friends receive a $20 discount: $200 + Family/Friend $180)
Lunch, dinner, and transportation included in the price!
Spend a day in Suwon, the historic capital of 경기도. Begin with a visit to Ilwol Arboretum, a recent addition to Suwon's attractions and a filming location for the drama "Queen of Tears." Learn more about Suwon's rich history at Bugukwon, where you can dress in traditional clothing and engage in an escape room game themed around local history. Wander along Nammoon Rodeo Street, lined with buildings from the modern era, providing a unique backdrop. Later, visit Changnyongmun inside the Hwaseong Fortress for archery experiences and enjoy a stroll along the fortress walls. End the day with a relaxing tea time, dinner at Janganmun, and a beautiful night-time stroll around the illuminated Hwaseong Haenggung Palace. You can complete the day with a media art show available only on October 17.
Program Highlights:
Ilwol Arboretum: Recently opened and famous as a filming site for "Queen of Tears."
Bugukwon: A cultural heritage site that offers a deep dive into Suwon's history with various interactive experiences.
Nammoon Rodeo Street: Enjoy lunch and explore the area known for its modern-era buildings.
Changnyongmun: Partake in archery inside the historical Hwaseong Fortress and enjoy a picnic.
Tea Time & Dinner: Have tea time and dinner against the backdrop of historic gates.
Hwaseong Haenggung Palace Night Tour: Experience the palace in spectacular night lighting and enjoy a special media art show (on October 17 only).
Photography by Guide: Capture the essence of your experience with help from our guide, Hannah, who will document these memorable moments. Photos will be shared with participants to treasure.
Autumn Camping Vibes in Gogiri: Discover an Autumn Escape from the Bustling of Seoul
Dates: Saturdays 10/19, 10/26, 11/2
Meeting Point: Exit 5, Jeongja Station, Shinbundang Line
Tour Hours: 3 PM - 10:30 PM
Price: $170 USD (Additional family/friends receive a $20 discount: $170 + Family/Friend $150)
Note: Earthen Jar BBQ dinner and the cover charge at Minor Swing included but alcoholic beverages, drinks, or desserts are not included.
Step away from the urban rush and immerse yourself in a day of nature and authentic Korean experiences at an eco-friendly Cafe in Gogiri by a stream, where the ambiance of coffee in the wild redefines relaxation. This unique outing simulates a camping trip complete with a meal of Korean pork belly cooked in traditional earthen jars (‘항아리 삼겹살’), served in a tent, providing a special touch to your Korea travel memories. As night falls, enjoy a sophisticated jazz performanceat Minor Swing, creating the perfect backdrop for a sublime autumn evening.
Program Highlights:
Cafe at Gogiri: Enjoy the tranquil sound of the valley's waters and view the autumn foliage in an eco-friendly cafe at Goriri.
Earthen Jar Barbecue (항아리 바베큐): Dine on samgyeopsal (three-layer pork belly) cooked in traditional Korean earthen jars (항아리) over charcoal, mimicking a true camping experience.
Enjoying Jazz at Minor Swing: Experience high-quality jazz music that enhances the evening, set in a venue perfect for enjoying Korea’s cool autumn nights. (Before the jazz performance, we’ll utilize the well-appointed library for personal reading or language study, adding a touch of tranquility to your cultural adventure!)
Photography by Guide: Capture the essence of your experience with help from our guide, Hannh, who will document these memorable moments.
Join us for a day that combines the spirit of Korean autumn camping with cultural immersion, set against the soundtrack of live jazz.
Authentic Korean Cooking at Home: Master Traditional Dishes with an EK Friend Chef
With this special cooking program, you can explore the rich flavors and techniques of Korean cuisine through two distinct cooking sessions hosted by a passionate culinary enthusiast and an EK Friend from our community. These classes are perfect for those eager to witness firsthand and learn about everyday Korean dishes in an interactive, home-based setting.
Please Note: The cooking sessions will be conducted primarily in Korean, with limited English support, providing an authentic immersion into the culinary culture. Please note that if we do not receive a minimum of three sign-ups one week prior to the event date, the event will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.
PROGRAM 1: Cooking Adventure with Korean Classics in the Kitchen 떡볶이, 오뎅탕, 만두
Dates: Wednesday 10/23, Tuesdays 11/5, 11/19
Location: Host’s Home Kitchen
Time: 10 AM - 2 PM
Price: $80
Participant Limit: A minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 people
This interactive class takes place in the warmth of a home kitchen, offering a personal and engaging experience. You'll assist in preparing and tasting two types of Tteokbokki—spicy Gochujang-based and savory soy sauce-based—alongside ready-made Mandu. This session not only allows you to see the preparation of these dishes but also involves you in the cooking process, providing insights into the techniques and stories behind each dish. Conclude the class by enjoying the dishes you've helped create, paired with traditional Korean tea, making for a truly immersive culinary journey.
Register for Korean Classics
PROGRAM 2: A Complete, Authentic Korean Home Meal - Vegetarian Delights
Dates: Wednesday 10/30, Tuesdays 11/12/, 11/26
Location: Host’s Home Kitchen
Location: Host’s Home Kitchen
Time: 10 AM - 2 PM
Price: $80
Participant Limit: A minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 people
Step into the kitchen for our second cooking session, focusing on a vegetarian Korean meal, rich in both flavor and tradition. You’ll explore a menu consisting of rice, wild-sesame seaweed soup, a choice of traditional Korean pancakes (potato, kimchi, or seafood), and three different vegetable side dishes. You’ll watch and assist the host as she cooks, and have the opportunity to engage deeply by asking questions and learning about the ingredients and methods used. The session concludes with a tasting of all prepared dishes, complemented by a soothing Korean tea, providing a fulfilling and educational culinary experience.
Experience Hwadam Forest and Traditional Village Charm
Dates: 10/31, 11/7
Meeting Point: Exit 9, Yangjae Station
Tour Hours: 10 AM - 9 PM
Price: $230 USD (Additional family/friends receive a $20 discount: $230+Additional family/friend $210)
*EK Premium Members: please contact Admin for a special discount code.
Lunch, dinner, and transportation included in the price!
This tour will take you to one of the most beloved places to appreciate Korea's beautiful autumn foliage - Hwadam Forest. But that’s not all – the day will begin at Saeogae-gil Hanok Village, where traditional Korean architecture meets contemporary life through studios, cafes, and a pottery exhibition. We’ll then head to the highlight of the tour, Hwadam Forest, showcasing a breathtaking array of fall colors in an eco-friendly park designed for conservation and beauty. Advance reservations are necessary due to the popularity and limited access of this location, making this an exclusive opportunity. (We can flash our tickets earned through fiercely competitive, limited online purchase!)
Program Highlights:
Interactive Language Experience: Start the tour with a short, engaging language lesson, complete with handouts from Essential Korean. Prepare to interact and appreciate the cultural nuances during your visit.
Saeogae-gil Hanok Village: Explore this quaint village that mimics a folk village, offering a unique blend of historical and modern elements.
Traditional Lunch at Ibaji: Relish a traditional Korean meal that showcases seasonal specialties.
Mermaid Cafe: Visit this cafe known as a filming location for a popular music video, adding a touch of modern Korean pop culture to your tour.
Hwadam Forest: Delve into the heart of Korea’s quintessential autumn beauty with a guided tour through themed gardens.
Dinner: Enjoy your day at a famous knife-cut noodles restaurant.
Photography by Hannah: Capture your adventure with wonderful snapshots taken by our guide, Hannah. All photos will be shared with participants in a folder for you to cherish and remember.
Special Invitation to EK Members: Autumn Escape to Nonsan City
We're thrilled to offer EK members an exclusive invitation to join us for a special two-day retreat on October 28 and 29.
Let's journey together to the charming Nonsan City in Chungcheongnam-do, a scenic spot located approximately 170km from Seoul.
What’s Included:
Transportation: Travel in comfort to and from Seoul.
Meals: Enjoy one dinner and one lunch, showcasing local flavors.
Accommodation: Relax in unique and historic lodgings.
Activities: Post-dinner beer party to unwind and socialize.
Entrance Fees: All site admissions are covered.
Meeting Point: Exit 9, Yangjae Station– we will depart by vehicle.
Tour Hours: 10 AM - 9 PM
Price: $250 (Additional friends and family: $150)
Lunch, Dinner, and Transportation is included in the price!
Accommodation Details: Stay in a quaint, charming lodging within Nonsan. Our accommodations include small buildings over 100 years old, with one transformed into a cozy guesthouse. Each of the five two-bedroom units features one room with a queen-sized bed and another with traditional Korean-style bedding on tatami mats, ideal for sharing among 2-3 people.
Here’s what we’ll explore:
Sunshine Land
1950 Studio
Baekje Cultural Land
K-Pop Lyrics & Dance Challenge: Dive into Korean Pop Culture with Kay샘!
Dates: 11/4, 11/20
Meeting Point: TBA
Program Duration: 10 AM - 4 or 5 PM
Price: $90 USD
Note: Price includes lunch! But beverages or desserts at the cafe are not included.
Program Flow:
(Optional) Korean Egg Toast & Coffee at Issac Toast shop (40 minutes)
Korean Language Session with Kay샘 (1 hour): Kick start your day with Kay샘 as she leads a language session where you'll learn and understand the lyrics of the K-Pop song you’ll dance to today. You’ll learn not just the words but the meaning behind the lyrics, setting the stage for a deeper connection with the dance.
K-Pop Dance Challenge Class (90 minutes): Learn a pre-selected popular K-Pop dance from a top-class dancer, teacher, and choreographer. Chosen for her passion and exceptional teaching skills, she provides a fun, supportive environment that is perfect for all skill levels.
Korean Lunch (1 hour): After dancing, enjoy a well-deserved Korean lunch at a nearby restaurant. This is your chance to unwind, discuss your experiences, and delve deeper into the culture behind the music and dance.
Visit to the neighborhood park and Graveyard for Hampoonggun (1 hour)
Local Market Tour (1 hour)
Tea Time, Reflection & Review (1 hour): Following lunch, unwind and enjoy tea time at a cafe where we'll reflect on our day and review the song lyrics. This is a great opportunity to consolidate what we’ve learned and relax with new friends.
Highlights:
Accessible Dance Instruction: No matter your age or dance background, learn exciting K-Pop choreography in a welcoming atmosphere.
Language Skills Enhancement: Deepen your understanding of Korean through music and lyrics, with tangible takeaways to continue your language journey.
Cultural Connection: Enjoy an authentic Korean meal and a serene tea time, fostering a deeper appreciation for Korean traditions.
🎤🕺✨ Unlock the vibrant world of K-Pop with our engaging K-Pop Lyrics & Dance Challenge! Join Kay샘 for a unique and immersive experience that bridges language learning with the energetic pulse of Korean pop culture. This program is designed for enthusiasts of all ages looking to dive into K-Pop, whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking to step into something new.
Register for K-Pop Lyrics & Dance Challenge
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