Legend of the Blue Sea & Running Man

Traveling through Seoul? This 9-hour tour offers a blend of pop culture, iconic landmarks, and local neighborhoods, making it a fantastic way to experience the city’s vibrant spirit. From catching spectacular views atop N Seoul Tower to walking along the streets made famous by K-dramas and variety shows, this experience is packed with memorable moments.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on authentic, TV-inspired sights—it’s not just about sightseeing but about stepping into the scenes that have captivated millions worldwide. The inclusion of a professional guide ensures you get insightful commentary, and the convenience of pickup and drop-off adds to the comfort, especially after a full day of exploring.

A potential consideration: the itinerary can be quite packed, meaning you’ll spend a good portion of the day on the move. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, some stops might feel rushed. Still, for fans of Korean dramas, pop culture, and lively neighborhoods, this tour hits a lot of high notes.

This experience is ideal for pop culture enthusiasts, first-time visitors wanting a rundown, or anyone looking to see key Seoul sights with ease—especially if you value viewing some of the best cityscapes from elevated viewpoints.

Key Points

• Authentic TV Locations: Visit the spots where popular dramas like “Legend of the Blue Sea” were filmed.
• Spectacular Views: The top of N Seoul Tower offers breathtaking city panoramas.
• Cultural and Pop Culture Mix: Combines modern neighborhoods like Hongdae with traditional markets and landmarks.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, guide, and lunch included, making it stress-free.
• Short, Efficient Tour: Perfect for those with limited time who want a broad experience.
• Group Size: Max 44 travelers, so it’s relatively intimate for a large group tour.

A Comprehensive Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point and Early Highlights

The day begins at 9:00 am with pickup service, which is a major plus for travelers staying in Seoul. The guide, likely a fluent English speaker, kicks off by setting the scene with a bit of background on the areas you’ll visit, adding context to each stop. This personal touch can make a difference, especially if your guide shares behind-the-scenes stories or filming anecdotes.

Your first stop is Cosmojin’s own “Legend of the Blue Sea” filming site, where you’ll visit a renowned restaurant that has been frequented by Korean celebrities. This isn’t just a regular meal spot; it’s a place where fans of the drama can imagine the romantic encounters of Lee Min Ho and Jeon Ji Hyun.

The trick art museum in Hongdae follows, offering fun, interactive photo opportunities. As Hongdae is known as Seoul’s youth hub, the streets are lively and colorful, filled with street performers, quirky cafes, and shops selling trendy fashion and accessories.

Exploring Seoul’s TV Fame

Next, the tour takes you to the Korean Wave Center in central Seoul. This is a hub for fans to learn about Korea’s entertainment exports, with exhibits that showcase how dramas and K-pop have taken the world by storm.

The highlight for many is a visit to the 63 Building and Aquarium—the site where Lee Min Ho and Jeon Ji Hyun’s characters supposedly reunited in the show. The aquarium is not just a typical fish tank; it features an actual mermaid show, a spectacle that delights kids and adults alike. Travelers have noted that this stop adds a bit of magic and immerses you in the fantasy world portrayed in the drama.

Traditional Markets and Modern Landmarks

As the day progresses, you’ll visit Mangwon Traditional Market, an authentic spot to browse local foods, snacks, and souvenirs. It’s a chance to see everyday Seoul life away from tourist-heavy areas.

Lunch is at a famous local restaurant—a highlight for many, as it offers authentic Korean cuisine in a setting that’s often visited by stars and shared extensively on SNS. The guide’s recommendations help you navigate the menu and make the most of the local flavors.

The World of Trendy Youth Culture

After lunch, your journey takes you to Hongdae (Hongik University) Street. Here, you’ll walk among trendy shops, street performers, and cafes, getting a real feel for Seoul’s youthful energy. It’s a neighborhood that constantly reinvents itself, and you’ll likely find small boutiques and street art that could feature in your Instagram feed.

A visit to the RedPine or Ginseng Center is included, giving insight into Korea’s health and beauty products—a popular stop for travelers interested in skincare or traditional remedies.

The Iconic N Seoul Tower

The crown jewel of the tour? N Seoul Tower, where you’ll ascend to enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline. The tower’s observation deck is renowned for its panoramic vistas—especially beautiful as the sun sets or at night when Seoul lights up.

Here, you’ll also follow in the footsteps of “Running Man” members, snapping photos and exploring the various entertainment zones. This blending of scenery and pop culture makes the Tower a perfect finale, offering both a visual feast and a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Returning to Your Hotel

The tour wraps up with a drop-off service, leaving you with plenty of time to process the day or explore more of Seoul on your own. The total duration is approximately 9 hours, making it suitable for travelers with a busy schedule but wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Seoul’s modern and cultural highlights.

What’s the Real Value Here?

For $145, the tour covers transportation, a professional guide, a substantial lunch, and entrance fees at key sites like the aquarium and N Seoul Tower. While it’s not a cheap outing, the convenience of an all-in-one experience reduces hassle and offers an efficient way to see several top attractions in one day.

The inclusions mean travelers don’t need to worry about navigating transport or language barriers—perfect for first-time visitors or those unfamiliar with Seoul’s public transit. Plus, the small group size (max 44 travelers) helps ensure you get personalized attention and opportunities for photos.

Authenticity and Fun

Reviews highlight the fun atmosphere, with guides sharing interesting tidbits and cultural insights. One review mentions that the mermaid show at the aquarium was a huge hit, adding a bit of fairy-tale charm to the day. Others appreciated the local restaurant choice, noting that it provided authentic flavors in a lively setting.

Potential Drawbacks

Some might find the schedule a little rushed, especially if they like to linger at each site. The time spent at each stop is balanced to maximize experience but may limit deep exploration. Also, the tour is heavily themed around pop culture, so if you’re not a fan of K-dramas or variety shows, some stops may feel less relevant.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for pop culture lovers, first-time Seoul visitors, or those who want a well-rounded introduction to the city’s highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, entertainment, and vibrant neighborhoods, all with the convenience of guided transportation.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, slow-paced day with plenty of time to explore on your own, this might not be the best fit. However, if your priority is to tick off major sights while soaking in some TV history, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Legend of the Blue Sea & Running Man tour offers a lively, fun-packed way to experience Seoul’s most iconic sights and pop culture treasures in just one day. The inclusion of scenic views from N Seoul Tower, visits to drama filming locations, trendy neighborhoods like Hongdae, and cultural sites like traditional markets makes it particularly appealing for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview.

While the schedule is somewhat tight, the value lies in the convenience, expert guidance, and the chance to see spots you might not easily access on your own. It’s especially suited for fans of Korean dramas, variety shows, or anyone eager to discover Seoul’s vibrant modern culture alongside its famous landmarks.

If you’re after a fun, efficient, and culturally rich experience that combines scenic views with pop culture, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation, a professional English guide, lunch at a well-known restaurant, and pick-up and drop-off services within Seoul. Entrance fees for the aquarium and N Seoul Tower are also covered.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, making it suitable for travelers wanting a full but manageable day of sightseeing.

Is there a minimum group size?
Most travelers can participate, with a maximum group size of 44 people, ensuring a balance between group interaction and personal space.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include the filming locations of “Legend of the Blue Sea,” the mermaid show at the 63 Aquarium, vibrant Hongdae streets, the Korean Wave center, and stunning views from N Seoul Tower.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Just bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and an eagerness to explore Seoul’s pop culture and scenic spots. The guide will handle the rest!

Are there any optional shopping stops?
While the tour includes visits to cosmetic shops and the Ginseng Center, it’s primarily designed to showcase cultural and iconic sights rather than shopping.

Can I customize this tour?
As a scheduled group tour, customization isn’t typical, but you can always discuss your interests with the guide if time allows.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Korean meal at a renowned restaurant is part of the experience, offering both convenience and authentic flavors.

What should I expect at N Seoul Tower?
The tower provides panoramic views of Seoul’s skyline, beautiful sunset vistas, and a chance to walk around and take photos. It’s also where you follow the “Running Man” footsteps for fun photo ops.

How do I book or get more information?
You can reserve through the provider, Cosmojin Agency, by contacting them via email or phone. Details are available on the booking page.

This tour strikes a great balance between cultural sites, pop culture highlights, and scenic views, making it a fulfilling way to experience Seoul in a single day.