The Seoul Derby: The Summer Scavenger Hunt Event 2019

The Seoul Derby is an event I have been putting together for at least five years now… maybe six. When I started it was all about planning a fun way to get people out and about and see parts of Seoul that maybe haven’t and do it in a competitive way. Since it’s debut, there have been between 15 and 20 teams that rock up each time. Some years there is just one event in the beginning of the summer and some years there has been two.

Teams of four (or more) get together and run around with a scavenger hunt clue list of items that can really only be found in Korea and then stop off at a few spots for more intricate missions. It’s a bit like Running Man or Amazing Race with the added missions and ensure that people are on a good path and don’t get lost. I never want anyone to get lost… and so far, no one really has.

Missed the event? Don’t worry, you can buy The Seoul Derby – Personal Edition! Head out for fun with friends, family and set your own timeframe!

The teams kicked off at Sewoon Sangga in downtown Seoul. This building is a really underrated spot for views so my co-host Soju4Two and I thought it was the perfect place to kick off the fun. Not only would we have the area to ourselves more than likely, which we did, but we’d also be able to introduce the 15 teams to this awesome spot where you can see out over Jongmyo Shrine and see up to Namsan Tower. It’s a great spot and it’s FREE!

Teams rock up about 30 minutes earlier than kick off which is scheduled at 1:00. This allows us to meet the groups individually, make sure they’re set up and answer any questions they might have. Precisely at 1:00, we take a large group photo, hand out the clues and teams are off. Knowing my own competitive spirit, I know people aren’t really listening to directions once things kick off so meeting them before the event just ensures everything goes smoothly… and that it does. We take team photos and everyone gets to check out how the teams have dressed in team spirit. It’s pretty awesome.

Soju4Two put together an awesome video of the fun. Teams do everything from K-pop dances to miming in crowds, they have to find street food and relics from the past. There are teams that have come back multiple times which means I change up the route every time and produce new clues just for the teams in attendance each time. Mission change, clues are new so you can come join every time and be assured of a great time.

This year the sponsors include:
I Art Seoul: This is a great community space in the central area of Seoul near Itaewon and Noksapyeong. You can find various events like yoga classes, markets, and movie screenings. Definitely check it out.
KBeauty Collective: This is a new collective in Seoul seeking to share more information about KBeauty directly from Kbeauty lovers. Rather than getting all of the hype from the brands, head to these ladies to really here what is what and get the low down on the best things to try right now.
Dark Side of Seoul: Looking for something creepy and fun to do while you’re in Seoul? This is definitely a tour that is for that person looking for something different. Wander the back alleys downtown with some ghostly experts and hear some awesome tales of yore.
Aqua Planet Ilsan: This is one of our favorite spots to go just outside of Seoul. Check out an awesome aquarium and petting zoo complete with a mermaid show too.
Tour 08 – Foreigner Tours : If you want to head out of Seoul and see some off the beaten path spots, this is the tour company for you. They are always heading to smaller unknown festivals and cities that are super cool. Don’t miss a trip.
Sprout-Natural Healthy Whole Food Service: Looking for some healthy eats? Sprout has you covered and they’ll deliver right to your door. This has been a staple in the healthy eating community for some time. Check out their small business and support local.
Morococo Café: Another local business that serves up some of the best eats around. I can’t say enough good things about the food here and the owner can’t be beat.
Vineworks Korea: Vineworks has been a long time supporter of The Soul of Seoul and we love supporting him too. He holds unique wine tasting experiences that allow those in the know and those just looking for a drink a great time.
Team Mogo: Order boxes straight to your door with meals ready for you to make. This is a great way to branch out a bit and try cooking something new. My favorite in the Cincinnati Spaghetti.. or chili.
TRIS: This new startup is looking to change the game with some very fun experiences for tourists living in and coming to Korea. Follow them to see what’s new and what you can do too!
Maitri Shah Photography: If you need a local photographer for family portraits, head shots, or just some outdoor fun, look no further. Check out her site and you will be very pleased with what you see.
The Bakers Table: Last but certainly not least, this bakery and brunch spot in the Noksapyeong area is a must visit. Always serving up great eats, I always know where to go when I’m in that area… do you?

We can’t say thank you enough to everyone that came out for the fun. We had a blast checking out your pics and vids and hope you had fun participating. Don’t forget, there will be another in September so make sure you’re following to see when it is!