Hit the Trails: A Friendly Guide to Hiking in South Korea

If you thought South Korea was all about neon lights, bustling cities, and spicy street food—well, you’re not wrong. But just beyond the buzz of Seoul and Busan lies an entirely different kind of adventure: hiking!

With craggy peaks, serene temples tucked into the hills, and trails that range from beginner-friendly to calf-burning, Korea is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re a casual stroller or a summit-chasing warrior, there’s a trail here with your name on it.

So lace up your boots, pack your snacks, and let’s get into the do’s, don’ts, and destinations of hiking in South Korea.

When to Go: Timing is Everything

Choosing the right season can make or break your hiking experience. Autumn is, hands down, the best time to hit the trails. The air turns crisp, the skies are clear, and the mountains explode into fiery shades of red, orange and gold. Spring comes a close second, with cherry blossoms and blooming azaleas lining the paths, although you may find yourself dodging crowds during festival weekends.

Summer is hot, humid, and often soggy thanks to monsoon rains. If you do brave a summer hike, start early, pack extra water, and check for any trail closures. Winter, meanwhile, turns the mountains into snowy wonderlands, but only attempt winter hikes if you're well-prepared and experienced—it’s beautiful but challenging.

What to Expect on the Trails

Korean hiking trails are wonderfully varied. Some lead you gently through shady forests and past quiet streams, while others demand a full-body effort, with steep climbs and the occasional rope-assisted section. Don’t be surprised if your fellow hikers—often sprightly retirees—overtake you with ease, dressed head-to-toe in brightly coloured gear. These ajummas and ajusshis are pros, and they’ve probably been doing this since before you were born.

Popular spots like Bukhansan, just outside Seoul, offer quick getaways with rewarding views over the city skyline. Down south, Seoraksan National Park is legendary for its jagged peaks and ancient temples, while Hallasan on Jeju Island offers a bucket-list climb up a dormant volcano.

The trails themselves are usually well-marked and safe, with plenty of signage in Korean and often English too. Some parks require you to start early and be off the mountain by a certain time—check in advance so you don’t get turned away.

What to Bring

You don’t need to kit yourself out like you’re off to Everest Base Camp, but a few essentials will make your hike far more enjoyable. Proper walking shoes or hiking boots are a must—many trails are rocky and steep. Bring enough water, especially in warmer months, and pack a few snacks or a packed lunch (kimbap and fruit are hiking favourites).

It’s also smart to carry sun protection, a lightweight waterproof jacket, and a small bag for your rubbish—bins are rare, and it’s good etiquette to take your litter home. If you're taking public transport to the trailhead, have a T-money card handy for buses or subways.

Hiking Etiquette: The Do’s and Don’ts

Korean hiking culture is polite, quiet, and respectful—very in tune with the natural surroundings. A friendly “Annyeonghaseyo” (hello) to fellow hikers is common, especially on quieter trails. Keep noise to a minimum—this isn’t the place to blast your Spotify playlist—and don’t veer off marked paths, as it can damage the environment and put you at risk.

Temples are common along trails and make peaceful places to rest, reflect, or quietly observe. Just be mindful of the space and the people around you. Smoking and open flames are strictly forbidden, especially during dry months, and some areas have designated quiet zones where you’re expected to whisper or stay silent. It might feel unusual, but it's all part of the mindful hiking experience.

The Joy of Hiking with Locals

One of the loveliest parts of hiking in South Korea is the people you meet. Don’t be surprised if an older hiker offers you a slice of apple, a boiled egg, or even a swig of makgeolli (Korean rice wine) from their backpack at the summit. There’s a real sense of community spirit on the trails. If you get chatting, you might find yourself with a trail buddy or even an impromptu lunch companion.

Hiking in South Korea isn’t just about the scenery—it’s a cultural experience, a workout, and a spiritual recharge all rolled into one. Whether you’re walking solo, hiking with friends, or tagging along with a group of cheery locals, the trails are welcoming and unforgettable.

So get your boots on, grab a bottle of barley tea, and see where the path takes you.

Build Your Own Korean Adventure

South Korea is made for exploring — ancient villages, buzzing markets, neon nightlife, and mountains that beg to be hiked. If you like to travel your own way, we’ll design an itinerary that balances iconic sights with off-the-beaten-track finds, giving you the freedom to experience Korea like a local.

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