Making a traditional notebook & naming on it in Hangeul in Seoul

Making a traditional notebook & naming on it in Seoul: An authentic craft experience

If you’re looking for a creative way to connect with Korean culture during your trip to Seoul, this notebook-making workshop offers a truly special opportunity. Led by Jeongju Kim in a charming studio near Gyeongbokgung Palace, this class combines traditional Korean bookbinding with a personal touch—naming your notebook in Hangeul. The experience is intimate, engaging, and surprisingly rewarding, making it perfect for those wanting more than just sightseeing.

What we love most about this workshop is how it balances hands-on craftwork with cultural learning. You’ll gain insight into Korean craft techniques, create a meaningful souvenir, and even practice writing your name in Hangeul, the Korean alphabet. Plus, the value for money is quite good, considering how personalized and memorable this activity is. That said, it’s a 1.5-hour experience, so if you’re after a full-day tour, this might be best as a quick, meaningful addition to your itinerary.

One thing to keep in mind is the importance of reserve ahead, as only booked participants can join. The small group size means a more personalized experience, but it also means availability might be limited, especially during peak seasons. This workshop suits travelers who enjoy handmade crafts, cultural learning, and unique souvenirs.

Key Points

• Authentic Korean craft: Learn traditional bookbinding techniques rooted in Korea’s artistic heritage.
• Personalized experience: Name your notebook in Hangeul, making it a unique keepsake.
• Expert guidance: Jeongju Kim provides clear, friendly instructions, making the process accessible for all skill levels.
• Cultural insight: Practice writing your own name in Korean and create a cover title, deepening your cultural understanding.
• Compact but meaningful: At around 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable activity that offers a lot of value for its price.
• Reservation required: Only those with an advance booking can participate, so plan ahead.

Discovering Seoul’s Hidden Craft Gem

This workshop takes place in a cozy studio located on the third floor of a building on Insadong-gil, a neighborhood famous for its arts, crafts, and traditional stores. The setting is intimate, and Jeongju Kim’s warm guidance makes you feel at ease from the start. You’ll begin by selecting your favorite paper and thread color—an early step that helps personalize your masterpiece.

What makes this experience stand out is the focus on traditional Korean bookbinding. Jeongju guides you through folding 15 sheets of paper, carefully punching holes, and binding them with needle and thread. The process becomes almost meditative, with the rhythmic motion of folding and sewing providing a calming break from busy sightseeing days. Brendan_N, one of the reviews, mentions that her notebook “came out great” thanks to Jeongju’s clear instructions, and found the studio “lovely.”

The craft itself is surprisingly straightforward, even for beginners, but still offers enough detail to feel like a true handmade piece. You’ll learn how to make precise holes, secure the binding, and create a sturdy yet elegant cover. The finished product is a small, beautifully crafted notebook that’s perfect for jotting down travel memories, sketches, or storing tickets—something tangible that reminds you of Seoul.

Personalization and Cultural Touches

One of the most enjoyable parts of the workshop is personalizing your notebook with your Korean name. Jeongju teaches you how to write your name with a brush, letting you practice and then craft a beautiful title piece to decorate the cover. This step adds a deeply personal element, transforming your notebook from a simple craft into a meaningful token of your visit.

Reviewers have praised the “great teacher” Calli, noting her patience and clarity, which is crucial when learning to write in a new script. The ability to produce a neat, artistic rendition of your name enhances the feeling of ownership and pride in your finished piece.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The workshop lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it an ideal break or side activity during your sightseeing day. It begins at the third-floor studio on Insadong-gil, with a brief introduction from Jeongju. She’ll guide you step-by-step through the folding, hole-punching, and binding process, ensuring everyone stays on track.

After completing the binding, you’ll move on to the calligraphy part—practicing your Korean name with a brush, which adds a lovely artistic flair. Finally, you’ll create a decorative title piece to adorn your notebook cover, making your creation uniquely yours.

The entire process is relaxed and friendly, with Jeongju’s expert guidance making it accessible, even for those without prior craft experience. The workshop concludes with you holding a beautiful, personal keepsake, ready to document your Seoul adventures.

Pricing and Value

At just under $40 per person, this experience offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized nature of the craft. Unlike larger, more generic tours, this activity is private and intimate, allowing for more tailored instruction and attention. It’s a hands-on activity that produces a tangible, usable souvenir—something you’ll cherish long after your trip.

For travelers interested in crafting, culture, or simply wanting a memorable story to take home, this workshop pays off. You’re not just making a notebook—you’re creating a piece of Korean craft tradition, infused with your personal touch.

Authentic Reviews and Insider Tips

Reviewers consistently highlight Jeongju Kim’s warmth and clear instructions. Brendan_N describes her experience as “truly wonderful,” emphasizing how her studio near Gyeongbokgung Palace added to the ambiance. Vicki_K adds, “Calli is awesome! She is a great teacher and very sweet!” confirmed that the class was a “joy to meet her,” and her notebook turned out “amazing.”

Participants also appreciated the meditative process of folding and sewing, which provided a peaceful pause amid busy sightseeing. As one reviewer noted, the procedure of making precise holes and binding the paper was surprisingly satisfying, turning a simple activity into a calming craft session.

The Sum Up

This notebook-making workshop in Seoul is a perfect blend of culture and creative fun. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who love hands-on activities, want a meaningful souvenir, or are curious about traditional Korean craftsmanship. The intimate setting, expert guidance, and personalized touch make it a memorable part of any Seoul itinerary.

If you’re after a genuinely authentic experience that combines craft, culture, and personalization, this workshop is a worthwhile investment. It’s a chance to slow down, learn something new, and walk away with a beautiful, handmade item full of your own personality.

While it’s not a full-day tour, its value lies in the depth of the experience and the lasting keepsake you’ll create. Perfect for a quick cultural fix or a special date activity, this workshop promises a meaningful, fun, and creative glimpse into Korea’s artistic traditions.

FAQ

Is this workshop suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the instructions are clear, and the process is simple enough for most beginners. Kids who enjoy crafts should find it enjoyable too, as long as they’re comfortable with some fine motor work.

Do I need to bring anything?
No, all materials—including paper, thread, brushes, and tools—are provided by the instructor. Just bring your enthusiasm and a desire to learn.

Can I customize the color of the thread and cover design?
Yes, you can choose your preferred thread color, making your notebook more personal.

What is the meeting point?
The workshop starts in a studio on the third floor of a building on Insadong-gil, near Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 16 days in advance, as spots are limited and fill up quickly, especially during peak times.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

This workshop is more than just a craft class; it’s a chance to create a meaningful souvenir, learn about Korea’s traditional binding techniques, and practice your Korean writing skills—all in a cozy, friendly setting. It’s an experience that adds a personal, artistic touch to your Seoul adventure.