Private Tour

Carving a Korean Stone Seal with Jeongju in Insadong Seoul.

Overview

Available languages

Korean

English

1 hour 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

After retiring from banking, I discovered the arts of calligraphy and seal carving, which gradually transformed my life. My work has been recognized with prestigious awards at the Seoul Women's Craft Exhibition and the KT Corporate Competition.

For the past 18 years, I've been teaching calligraphy at a women's professional education institute supported by the Seoul Metropolitan Government. Since January 2018, I've had the privilege of introducing Hangul and Korean traditional culture to over 3,000 international visitors at my studio in Insadong. I also conduct traditional culture workshops for international corporations.

I published "The Strength of Calligraphy" in 2018 and "Hello World!" in 2024. This book is a collection of memories and experiences from seven years of becoming with wonderful guests from a stranger to a closer.

***Please be advised that only those with reservations can attend the workshop.***

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Hello I'm Jeongju Kim. Welcome to my seal carving workshop, where you'll discover the art of creating your own personalized stone seal. This workshop offers more than just beautiful craftsmanship—it's an opportunity to experience the meditative joy of traditional Korean seal carving. I'll guide you through the entire process of creating your own seal, beginning with two distinct carving techniques. You'll learn how to handle the engraving tools properly as we practice making straight lines, circles. Then, I'll help you design your name in a style that perfectly suits. Once you've completed your design, I'll teach you how to carefully carve it . After the carving is finished, you'll experience the satisfaction of applying traditional Korean ink and making your first stamp. Your elegant seal case protect and display your handcrafted seal. This creative process often helps people rediscover the deeper meaning of their names—something we sometimes forget in our busy lives. As a special touch, I'll write a calligraphy message of your choice on a card for you to take home. Your handcrafted seal will serve as a lasting reminder of your time in Seoul, far more meaningful than any thing.

What‘s Included

A seal stone, A high quality seal stone case, Engraving knife and tools

Camellia tea or Coffee and Snacks.

Options

Carving a Korean Stone Seal with Jeongju in Insadong Seoul.

Reviews

4.94

127 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

123

Make this a part of your 🇰🇷 experience
Grace R,,Dec 16, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Class was interesting, informative and enjoyable. Appreciated the instructors guidance and patience while crafting my stamp. Would definitely recommend this experience as part of your Korea 🇰🇷 experience!
Fantastic Workshop with Jeongju
David C,,Dec 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
We absolutely loved this experience. Jeongju was an excellent instructor patient & friendly. She explained the history and meaning behind traditional stone seals, then guided us step by step through carving our own personalised designs. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique and memorable activity in Seoul!
Uniquely Korean
samalex907,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Had an incredible time doing something uniquely Korean in Jeongju's studio. We learned to carve a stone stamp (seal). If you wanted your name converted to Hangul (Korean characters), she was able to show you how to do it. The tea and cookie was a nice little snack. We got a beautiful post card in which she translated any quote into Korean to display our completed seal. We also received beautiful boxes to store them in. Recommend for anyone creative or looking to do something unique during their trip to Seoul.
Great take home souvenir and a fun experience
shannonpH6252UK,,Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This was an amazing experience and one we will do again when we come back. Invading area is easy to get to by bus or subway. The building was easy to find and once you climbed the stairs there was a large studio with comfortable chairs and large tables to sit at. Everything was provided that we needed, including tea and cookies. The instructor and assistant were helpful having us start with elementary carving strokes to deeper cuts into the stone. They also helped with full design assistance for non artisans. We were sat in a group with other English speakers and it was fun to meet new people. She had great communication when we had questions before we arrived and answered many questions during our experience.
Beautiful, Hands-On Korean Stone Seal Experience
antoinettemims,,Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
This Korean stone seal class was such a memorable and unique experience. Our instructor was excellent – they walked us through the history and cultural significance of stone seals and clearly had so much expertise in the craft. We each had the option to get our names written in Korean and choose between two carving styles, which made the activity feel really personal. The carving process was guided, approachable, and surprisingly easy to complete, even for beginners. At the end, we packaged our finished seals in a small decorative box to take home, which made it feel even more special. Overall, this was a great hands-on crafting activity and a meaningful way to learn about Korean culture. I’d definitely recommend this class to others!
A fun cultural experience that gives you a lifelong souvenir
X5664XEjoshual,,Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
A fun well moderated experience. Highly highly recommended for young adults to adults. She is a wonderful teacher who explains each step thoroughly and is attentive to all participants
Fun bit of history and creativity
jordandQ8828LI,,Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Fun, unique experience in Seoul. A little bit of history and a little bit of creativity, Jeongju made it a very memorable experience. It's nice bringing a souvenir home that has a little bit of history and an experience and a story behind it.
Great experience
Ki Charm John K,,Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Ms. Kim provided an amazing experience all around. I enjoyed it very much. The only thing that would have made it better is if there was a jewelers magnifying glass and light to see the pieces
So nice!
blakebH1407RE,,Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Jeongju was amazing. She helped us all make such an unforgettable souvenir that I hope I can use sometimes. Lovely experience!
Very pleasant
683calem,,Oct 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Very pleasant experience - relaxing and great tea. Rewarding leaving with something personalised that you created. Would recommend if you want to make something to take home with you.