Yonhap trail run invites participants to explore UNESCO site

Hanam, South Korea -- An international trail run event co-hosted by Yonhap News Agency, South Korea's primary wire service, will take place on December 12-13, 2022. The Yonhap News Hanam International Trail Run Festival will feature a 28-kilometer course, including Namhansanseong, a UNESCO World Heritage site that celebrates its 400th anniversary this year.

The fortress, built in 1626 during the Joseon Dynasty, showcases East Asian fortification technology and served as a crucial shelter during the Qing Dynasty invasion. Participants will commence their journey at Misa Boat Race Park, followed by a 28km trail through a dense pine forest and steep hills. After the demanding course, runners will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the Han River and Seoul.

The 15km course will traverse Mount Geomdan, a 657-meter-high landmark with a rich mythological history and views of the Han River and Paldang Lake. The course design was overseen by 1992 Olympic men's marathon gold medalist Hwang Young-cho, who aimed to incorporate elements such as the lake, river, forest, and fortress into the trail run.

Registration for the event closes on November 27, and the festival is open to the first 5,000 participants across four courses: 5km, 10km, 15km, and 28km road and trail runs.