From office workers to ultra-marathoners, South Korea’s running boom is reshaping streets, travel and retail as millions hit the pavement
South Korea’s streets, parks and travel itineraries are being redrawn as a nationwide running trend shows no sign of slowing.
Once the preserve of a small group of enthusiasts, running has evolved into a mass hobby, with some 10 million South Koreans now identifying themselves as runners, according to industry and tourism data. That is roughly double the figure from 2015.
Marathons and road races are multiplying across the country, and “run trips” that combine travel and races are emerging as
a new form of leisure.
Office worker Yoo Jae-moon, 38, became part of the trend last autumn after a suggestion from a colleague.
“I used to struggle even with walking fast,” Yoo says. “Now I run 5km very slowly after work or on weekends, and just hitting 30 or 40 minutes feels like a big achievement.”
Running has helped him lose weight and feel stronger in his back and shoulders, and he is now considering his first half-marathon this year.