Seoul: Cooking Class and Tour with Michelin-Trained Chef

Imagine wandering through the vibrant Mangwon Market, a hub of fresh produce, street foods, and local life, before rolling up your sleeves in a cozy kitchen to create authentic Korean pancakes under the guidance of a chef with Michelin-star credentials. For $87 per person, this experience offers a wonderful blend of culinary exploration, culture, and social connection. It lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable and highly rewarding addition to any Seoul itinerary.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances market exploration with a hands-on cooking experience, giving you a genuine taste of local life and cuisine. Plus, the chance to chat with a chef with a prestigious background adds an extra layer of authenticity and insight. On the flip side, some travelers might find the start point a bit tricky if they’re unfamiliar with Seoul’s subway system, as transportation isn’t included.

This tour suits food lovers, curious travelers eager to understand Korean culture through cuisine, and those who enjoy meeting fellow travelers. If you like interactive experiences that combine learning, tasting, and socializing, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Market Tour: Explore Mangwon Market, taste street foods, and shop for ingredients with a knowledgeable guide.
• Expert Guidance: Learn to make Korean pancakes with a chef who has Michelin experience.
• Cultural Insight: Gain a deeper understanding of Korean food culture through direct conversation with the chef.
• Inclusive Experience: All ingredients and supplies are included; no prep needed.
• Social Atmosphere: Meet fellow travelers and enjoy a photo memento.
• Value for Money: At $87, you get a full sensory experience combining market shopping, cooking, tasting, and learning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Mangwon Station and the Market Tour

The tour begins at the “Connecting Mangwon” sign in front of Mangwon Station Exit 2. From here, you’ll join a small group led by a guide, exploring Mangwon Market, a lively spot favored by locals for its fresh produce, street snacks, and everyday buzz. This isn’t a tourist trap—it’s a real glimpse into Seoul’s food culture. As you stroll through the stalls, expect to sample Korean street foods and learn about the ingredients that define Korean cuisine.

Travelers who’ve participated note how engaging and informative the guide is, with Yuka saying, “Shopping at the market was also fun!” and Yuri mentioning how the guide’s insights brought Korean culture alive. The market visit isn’t just about shopping; it’s about absorbing the sights, sounds, and smells that make Korean street food so irresistible.

Ingredient Shopping and Market Insights

While shopping for ingredients, you’ll get a chance to ask questions about Korean produce, spices, and specialty items. The guide (or chef) will highlight what’s used in traditional dishes, adding context that elevates your understanding. This part of the tour offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to taste some must-eat Korean street foods, setting the stage for what’s to come.

The Hands-On Cooking Class

After your market adventure, you’ll move to a nearby kitchen where the real fun begins. No prior cooking experience is necessary—everything is included, and the chef will guide you step-by-step. The focus is on Jeon (Korean pancakes), a popular dish that’s both comforting and fun to make. You’ll learn to prepare different types of pancakes, gaining practical skills and insider tips, such as the best ways to handle a knife or flip a pancake.

The kitchen is cozy, and the atmosphere is welcoming, making it easy to relax and enjoy the process. As Mevlüt commented, “We cooked some delicious food while learning about Korea,” and the chef shares interesting facts about each dish. Alongside the pancakes, a traditional Korean soup and side dishes will be served, rounding out the meal.

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Tasting and Socializing

Once your dishes are ready, you’ll sit down to enjoy your homemade Korean pancakes paired with Makgeolli (a traditional rice wine). This social element is a highlight—chatting with the chef about Korean cuisine and sharing your culinary creations with fellow travelers fosters a warm, communal vibe.

Yuri noted, “All the food was so delicious including the side dishes,” which shows how satisfying the meal is. The experience ends with a commemorative photo shoot, capturing your cooking triumphs and new friendships.

The Value and Practicalities

At $87, this tour offers a comprehensive package—market tour, ingredient shopping, cooking class, meal, and a chance to connect with others. All ingredients and supplies are included, so there’s no need to bring anything or worry about extra costs. However, transportation to the meeting point is not included, so plan accordingly if you’re staying farther away.

Reservations are flexible with a “pay later” option, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, making it easy to fit into your plans.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience resonates most with travelers who love interactive food experiences and want to go beyond the usual sightseeing. We’ve found that the personal stories shared by the chef, combined with authentic market visits, offer a much more genuine feel of Korean culture than a typical cooking class. The reviews reinforce this—Yuka called the instructor “very kind,” and Jordon appreciated the insights and tricks on the cutting board.

Since the tour is capped at a manageable group size, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions, get personalized tips, and truly engage with the food and culture.

Possible Drawbacks

While most find everything seamless, a couple of considerations include the start location—if you’re unfamiliar with Seoul’s subway system, finding the meeting point might take some planning. Also, since the experience is about making pancakes and traditional dishes, those expecting a full Korean meal with multiple courses might find it somewhat limited.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies, culture enthusiasts, and social travelers. If you enjoy hands-on activities, learning about local ingredients, and tasting delicious food you’ve made yourself, you’ll find this worthwhile. It’s also perfect for those who like meeting new people and sharing experiences in a friendly environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need any cooking experience to participate?
Not at all. The class is designed for all skill levels, and everything is guided step-by-step.

Are ingredients and supplies included?
Yes, all ingredients and supplies needed for the cooking class and market tour are included in the price.

Is transportation to the meeting point provided?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to get to Mangwon Station Exit 2 on your own.

What if I have food allergies?
If you have allergies, let the organizer know in advance. They can prepare alternative dishes to accommodate your needs.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes approximately 3 hours, covering the market tour, cooking class, and tasting.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the atmosphere formal or casual?
It’s a relaxed, friendly environment ideal for travelers of all ages and backgrounds.

What’s the best way to prepare for this experience?
Just come eager to learn and taste. No special prep is needed—everything is arranged for you.

Final Thoughts

Taking a cooking class with a Michelin-trained chef in Seoul offers more than just a meal; it’s an immersion into the local food culture, a chance to learn practical skills, and an opportunity to connect with others who share your love for food. The combination of market exploration, hands-on cooking, and social time creates a well-rounded experience that balances education and enjoyment.

This tour shines for its authenticity, informative guides, and delicious results—and it’s particularly suited for travelers who want to go beyond sightseeing and truly taste the soul of Korean cuisine.

If you’re a curious explorer eager to understand Korean food from its roots and enjoy making your own pancakes and side dishes, this experience is a great fit. It’s also a wonderful way to meet fellow travelers and leave with memories—and recipes—that last long after your trip.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this engaging, well-curated tour makes your Seoul visit all the more flavorful.

You can check availability for your dates here: