"Seoul, South Korea, with a population of nearly 9.6 million people, may not seem like a place that is home to high-quality trail running, but that would be an incorrect assumption. When I was teaching in South Korea for 16 months in 2006 and 2007, while not a runner - or a serious hiker for that matter - I was struck by the proximity of rugged mountain terrain close to the urban density of Seoul."
"Korea itself is quite mountainous and hilly, with only 30% of the land area actually flat. Buildings and city streets are often built steeply into the hillsides. Over the past few trips in 2018, 2023, and 2025 - now as a runner - I have had some incredible experiences on the country's trails. I wanted to share a little bit of what I have found"
Seoul sits amid rugged mountains with only 30% of South Korea's land flat, creating steep hillsides and easy access to wilderness from the city. The proximity of mountain terrain to urban density enables high-quality trail running close to metropolitan areas. Multiple visits in 2018, 2023, and 2025 recorded memorable trail experiences across the region. Eating and drinking are integral to trail culture, with elaborate picnics along routes and busy restaurants at trail exits. Weekend routes become crowded while weekday trails remain relatively empty. Notable options include mountain retreats, urban courses, and national parks such as Bukhansan.
Read at iRunFar
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