5 Top-Rated Seoul Wine Tours

Seoul isn’t just about high-tech skyscrapers and kimchi. The city offers a surprisingly rich array of wine experiences that blend traditional Korean flavors with modern wine culture. Whether you’re interested in learning how to make and pair kimchi with wine, tasting Korea’s storied rice wines like makgeolli and soju, or enjoying a hearty Korean BBQ paired with local wines, Seoul’s wine tours have something for all. One of our favorite picks is the Kimchi Dishes Cooking Class with Wine Pairing because it combines the hands-on experience of making kimchi with expert wine advice—plus, tasting four different kinds of kimchi makes it memorable. For a more relaxed, tasting-focused outing, the Rice Wine Tasting with Sommelier introduces you to Korea’s lesser-known rice wines, including makgeolli, from small local producers.

If you prefer pairing wine with local cuisine, the Wine & K-BBQ: A Perfect Pairing Dinner offers a casual yet insightful experience with an emphasis on Korean dishes and wine basics. For those seeking a day trip from Seoul, the Yeongdong Day Trip with Wine Tasting and Janggu combines wine tasting in a scenic region with cultural activities like playing the Janggu drum. These options illustrate how Seoul’s wine scene is evolving into a delightful mix of cultural discovery and culinary fun.

Quick Overview

Our list features five of the best wine tours in Seoul, each with its own distinct appeal:
– Kimchi and wine pairing class for a hands-on culinary adventure Learn more
– Rice wine tasting with a Korean sommelier specializing in makgeolli and soju Check it out
– Korean BBQ dinner with wine pairing in Sinchon, perfect for casual socializing See details
– Wine & K-BBQ dinner for a more comprehensive traditional experience View tour
– Day trip to Yeongdong featuring wine tasting and cultural activities like playing the Janggu drum More info

Now let’s dive into each experience and see what makes them special.

1. Seoul: Kimchi Dishes Cooking Class with Wine Pairing

At number 1 on our list, the Seoul: Kimchi Dishes Cooking Class with Wine Pairing combines the joy of cooking with the sophistication of wine pairing. For around $61, you learn how to craft kimchi pancakes, white kimchi noodles, or radish-bacon stir-fried rice, guided by a knowledgeable chef. What sets this tour apart is the chance to taste four different kinds of kimchi, gaining a deeper appreciation for Korea’s beloved fermented vegetables.

The highlight is the pairing of each dish with carefully selected wines, led by a sommelier. This is perfect for foodies who want an interactive experience that combines culinary skills, cultural insight, and wine education. The group sharing makes it a warm, social activity—like cooking with friends, but with the bonus of expert wine advice.

The value lies in the combination of hands-on cooking, culture, and wine tasting—something you won’t easily find elsewhere in Seoul. It’s especially suitable for those interested in Korean cuisine and looking for an engaging, all-in-one experience. A recent review called it “a fun, delicious, and educational experience.”

Bottom line: If you love Korean food and want to learn how to pair it with wine, this class offers an authentic, tasty, and well-guided activity.

2. Rice Wine Tasting with Sommelier – Finest Makgeolli (& Soju)

Second on the list is the Rice Wine Tasting with Sommelier, a 1 hour and 20-minute journey into Korea’s rice wines, hosted by Jay and Sam. For just over $42, you’ll sample Makgeolli, a cloudy, fermented rice wine that remains one of Korea’s most popular beverages, yet many outsiders don’t understand its nuances. The tour explores small, local producers’ bottles, which are often unavailable in stores, making this tasting a rare chance to discover exceptional flavors.

What makes this experience stand out is the storytelling—Sam shares fascinating tales about the history and cultural significance of these wines. The tasting includes both Makgeolli and the more familiar Soju, broadening your understanding of Korean alcohol beyond the green bottle. Reviewers love the personalized approach, with one noting, “Sam gave us a varied tasting with good stories and information.”

This tour is perfect for those keen to learn about Korea’s drinking traditions, especially if you’re curious about the lesser-known rice wines. Plus, the ability to purchase bottles to take home adds extra value.

Bottom line: If you’re interested in authentic Korean rice wines and want to learn their stories firsthand, this tasting offers an enlightening, flavorful experience.

3. Seoul: [Wine & K-BBQ] A Perfect Pairing Dinner in Sinchon

Third is the Wine & K-BBQ: A Perfect Pairing Dinner, a two-and-a-half-hour experience that combines Korean barbecue with wine education. For $52, you’ll not only enjoy delicious grilled meats but also learn about Korean drinking manners and wine basics from a friendly local guide.

What makes this tour distinctive is its relaxed, social atmosphere—perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a casual meal while gaining insight into Korean dining customs. During the tour, you’ll get a brief tour of Sinchon before settling in for the meal, making it a nice blend of sightseeing and dining. The guide offers recommendations on pairing and explains how Korean dishes like galbi and samgyeopsal work well with whites such as Riesling or Pinot Grigio.

One reviewer described it as “hanging out with an old friend,” emphasizing the friendly vibe and informational value. This experience is suited for those who want a laid-back, interactive meal that also teaches about Korean food and wine pairing.

Bottom line: If you prefer a social dinner that’s both educational and flavorful, this tour provides a relaxed atmosphere and tasty pairings.

4. Wine & K-BBQ: A Perfect Pairing Dinner

Next, the Wine & K-BBQ: A Perfect Pairing Dinner stands out for offering a comprehensive experience. For about $54, the tour features Korean-style grilled meats paired with a variety of wines and includes a discussion about Korea’s wine market, food, and culture.

The menu typically centers around Korean meat dishes, with an emphasis on how different wine styles complement local flavors. The hosts encourage you to share your preferences and allergies beforehand, ensuring a customized experience. Guests praise the personal touch and the educational nature of the tour, often mentioning the friendly and knowledgeable guide Taewoo Kim. One reviewer called it “an informal, insightful, and delicious experience.”

This tour is ideal for wine lovers looking to explore Korean cuisine in a relaxed, friendly setting. It balances food, wine, and cultural insights effectively, making it a good value for those wanting more than just a tasting.

Bottom line: If you’re after a casual, informative, and delicious introduction to Korean wine and food pairings, this tour delivers a friendly atmosphere and good value.

5. From Seoul: Yeongdong Day Trip with Wine Tasting and Janggu

Finally, the Yeongdong Day Trip offers a full-day escape into Korea’s countryside. For $92, it combines wine tasting at Sinabro Winery, a traditional Korean lunch of grilled fish and stone pot rice, and a fun session of playing the Janggu drum.

This trip is unique because it connects scenic wine tasting with cultural activities outside Seoul’s hustle. Visitors learn about the winemaking process and the history of Korean wine, which adds context not available in typical tastings. The visit to Okgye Waterfall and the Rainbow Healing Center enhances the day’s appeal for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

While reviews aren’t provided for this specific tour, the combination of wine, local cuisine, and culture makes it appealing to travelers wanting a multi-dimensional experience. It’s ideal if you’re looking to explore Korea beyond Seoul and combine wine with scenic and cultural sights.

Bottom line: For those interested in a comprehensive day trip that includes wine, nature, and cultural activities, this is a well-rounded choice.

How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Seoul

When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: Are you eager to learn how to cook kimchi and pair it with wine? Then the cooking class is a perfect pick. If your interest leans toward sampling authentic rice wines like makgeolli, then the tasting tour is ideal. For a more relaxed dinner experience, the K-BBQ with wine options provide excellent food and casual learning. Meanwhile, the day trip to Yeongdong appeals to travelers wanting an immersive experience outside Seoul.

Budget, time, and personal interests will guide your choice. For example, if you have limited time but want a focused tasting, the makgeolli tour offers great value. Alternatively, a foodie who loves cooking and wine might find the kimchi class the most rewarding. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.

Final thoughts

Seoul’s wine scene continues to grow, blending traditional Korean flavors with a modern appreciation for wine. Whether you want hands-on cooking, in-depth tastings, or dinner experiences, there’s a wine tour suited to your style. For a well-rounded trip, try pairing a tasting tour with exploring Seoul’s vibrant neighborhoods or historic sites. And remember, booking in advance ensures you secure your spot in these popular experiences. Cheers to discovering Korea’s wine culture—one glass at a time.