Inside Seoul's rapidly growing urban running scene
Park Eun-kyung, a former running club leader, recently joined a group session around Gyeongbok Palace organized by On Your Mark, a specialized running brand. "The Gyeongbok Palace loop is 2.5 kilometers, making it perfect for a 5 km run with two laps, and the flat, beginner-friendly terrain is a huge plus. Being a popular landmark, it's especially beautiful at sunset. It's also great for…
Recent developments in Seoul's rapidly expanding urban running scene have been shaped by a diverse range of initiatives and trends. Park Eun-kyung, a former running club leader, has joined a group session around the iconic Gyeongbok Palace, a 2.5-kilometer loop that is particularly suitable for a 5-kilometer run with two laps. The flat and beginner-friendly terrain makes it an ideal choice for those new to the sport.
One notable aspect of the scene is the rise of the "puppy run," a viral phenomenon that has captivated younger runners. Participants create a digital map of a dog by navigating alleyways in Seochon, Samcheong-dong, and Gwanghwamun, using GPS tracking apps. This creative "art run" showcases the evolving nature of running culture in the city.
Park also highlighted the growing popularity of non-competitive events, such as "My Pace Morning," which sees city streets closed to traffic from 7 to 9 a.m. This allows people to freely walk, run, or cycle without the usual distractions of traffic. The success of these initiatives underscores the expanding reach and adaptability of Seoul's urban running scene.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- Inside Seoul's rapidly growing urban running scene koreatimes.co.kr
