{
  "id": 16856737,
  "title": "Global trekkers climb Seoul's rocky mountain trails for scenic views, nature",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/28/global-trekkers-climb-seouls-rocky-mountain-trails-for-scenic-views",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-28T06:12:03.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Korea Times",
    "slug": "the-korea-times",
    "url": "https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/lifestyle/travel-food/20261028/global-trekkers-climb-seouls-rocky-mountain-trails-for-scenic-views-nature"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On a clear autumn day, a group of 18 international hikers from various backgrounds embarked on the inaugural day of the 2026 Seoul Hiking Week: Autumn. The event kicked off with a gathering outside Exit 1 of Gwanaksan Station, where participants were set to tackle the challenging route of Mount Hoam, one of the peaks atop the larger Mount Gwanak in southern Seoul. The three-week hiking festival, centered around three mountains in the city - Mount Bukhan, Mount Bugak, and Mount Gwanak, aims to showcase Seoul's rugged urban landscape.\n\nBefore starting their trek, the hikers visited the Seoul Hiking Tourism Center, conveniently located at the station. By scanning a QR code, they gained access to a complimentary equipment rental service, which provided essentials such as hiking poles, gloves, backpacks, windbreakers, and hiking boots.\n\nOnce equipped, the multinational group proceeded to the trailhead for a brief group stretch. As they began their uphill climb, the lead guide paused to point out a row of wooden statues lining the left side of the path. The guide explained that these sculptures served as cultural signposts, offering a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the area.",
  "summary": "Under a clear autumn sky, 18 international hikers from diverse backgrounds gathered outside Exit 1 of Gwanaksan Station on Monday to kick off the three-week \"2026 Seoul Hiking Week: Autumn.\" Their objective for Day 1 was Mount Hoam, one of the peaks on the larger Mount Gwanak in southern Seoul, an \"extreme course\" route designed to showcase Seoul's rugged urban terrain. Running through Nov. 15,…",
  "key_points": [
    "18 international hikers participated in Seoul Hiking Week",
    "Mount Hoam chosen for inaugural hike of the event",
    "Hikers received free hiking equipment at Seoul Hiking Tourism Center"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The introduction of organized hiking festivals and complimentary equipment rentals positions Seoul's rugged urban mountains as a primary destination for international travelers seeking a blend of nature and culture.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}