Hi Randy,
Just saw your post.
Have been to SEL several times but not in the last 5 years, and nowhere else in the country unfortunately.
Agree that guide books seem few and far between.
Suggest the KNTO which has offices in CHI. Website is not bad but a bit slow at times.
<a href="http://english.tour2korea.com" target="_blank">http://english.tour2korea.com</A>
Maybe even some KE staff in CHI could give you some tips.

Have always had lots of fun in SEL, but met up with Korean colleagues each time. My recommendation would be to find a local contact thru friends or colleagues at home before you go if you are able.
You can always have more fun in a place with a local contact.
Don’t expect to find many people who speak English outside the major cities, and often not in the cities either, so make sure you have a phrase book with you.
Hotels in SEL are often very full with conventions etc, and aren’t cheap either.
The food is fantastic, if you like lots of chillies and garlic.
The local firewater (soju), a bit like sake, is good, but creeps up on you.
The mountains are beautiful according to an Italian friend of mine (married to a Korean).
Have a great trip!