Seoul, where modern urban life blends harmoniously with majestic natural beauty, is witnessing the rise of a new and exciting tourism trend: K-hiking (hiking Korean style). This "urban hiking" activity has quickly become one of the unexpected experiences favored by many international tourists, offering a very "Korean" approach to exploring the land of kimchi.
Mountain climbing in the heart of the city
What makes K-hiking so attractive is its convenience and ease of access. Visitors do not need to leave the bustling urban center or prepare too elaborately. With just a subway ride, they can easily visit hiking tourist centers, rent a suitable outfit and pair of shoes, and then start conquering the picturesque mountain roads right in the heart of the city. Seoul is one of the few cities in the world that has such a unique blend of nature and urban life, creating ideal conditions for K-hiking to develop.
New K-hiking experience is increasingly popular with international tourists
K-hiking is not just a physical activity but also a way to fully enjoy Korean culture. On the mountain trails, visitors will encounter very typical images: climbers stopping at high points to enjoy hot ramyeon noodles, sharing delicious gimbap rolls, sipping traditional makgeolli rice wine and taking souvenir photos together with the magnificent panorama of Seoul stretching out below. The combination of sports, cuisine and landscape has created a unique and authentic cultural experience that not all types of tourism can offer.
This activity has quickly become one of the most popular surprise activities among international tourists.
Experts say the main reason why K-hiking is quickly becoming popular with foreign tourists is the ease it brings. Tourists can enjoy hiking and admire beautiful natural landscapes without leaving the city or having to prepare too much. Moreover, K-hiking also gives tourists a new feeling and different impressions compared to traditional forms of tourism.
Discover the 3 famous "urban mountains" that make K-hiking so attractive
To help visitors experience K-hiking in the best way, Seoul Tourism Organization (STO) currently operates 3 Seoul Hiking Tourism Centers, located near the three most popular inner-city mountains. The proximity to the city and the unique natural beauty have made these mountains the Top 3 most popular K-hiking destinations today.
Bukhansan Mountain (Bukhan)
With a peak height of 836 m, Bukhansan Mountain, also known as Bukhan, is rugged but extremely accessible thanks to its convenient location near Bukhansan Ui Station on the Ui-Sinseol Line (Seoul Subway). K-hiking at Bukhan – the main mountain of Bukhansan National Park in Seoul – allows visitors to spend less time traveling and more time exploring.
Coming to this tourist destination, you will experience beautiful trails leading through many forests and architectural works to conquer majestic mountain peaks.
Mount Bukhan boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage with many ancient temples, fortresses and ruins dotting its steep slopes. It offers both trails with breathtaking views of the city, ideal for those looking for a gentle K-hiking experience, as well as more challenging routes for those who are more adventurous.
Bugaksan Mountain (Bugak)
Bugaksan Mountain, with an elevation of 342 m, is located near Anguk Station and Gyeongbokgung Station on Seoul Subway Line 3. What makes Bugaksan special is that it offers a unique opportunity for visitors to walk along sections of the Seoul City Wall, creating a tangible link to Korea's historical past.
Walking to the top you will have the opportunity to see the whole city of Seoul
A trip to Bugak Mountain in any season is considered as “Bugak Mountain Healing Therapy”, bringing peace to the mind and body. Here, visitors experiencing K-hiking will be amazed by the stunning view of downtown Seoul, including iconic landmarks such as Gyeongbok Palace, Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House – the residence of the President of Korea) and Namsan Tower.
Gwanaksan Mountain (Gwanak)
Gwanaksan Mountain, 629 m high, is located near Gwanaksan Station on the Sillim Subway Line. The mountain is famous for its dramatic granite peaks and unique rock formations, creating a striking and unusual geological landscape. Along with a variety of trails suitable for all levels, Gwanak Mountain is also home to a number of historic temples and hermitages, adding a cultural and spiritual dimension to the K-hiking experience.
Locals say it would be a shame not to experience this route when summer comes.
