How I Lost 60 Pounds Hiking in South Korea

I never thought I would love hiking. I started hiking in South Korea because I wanted to lose weight. I ended up losing 60 pounds, but I got a lot more out of it. Hiking became something I looked forward to doing with my husband and friends. We climbed mountains, visited temples, met people, and usually stopped for something good to eat afterward. Some hikes were easy, while others had me wondering why I agreed to go. But I kept going, and eventually, I was planning our next hike. Living in Daegu gave me plenty of opportunities to get outside. Soon, we were hiking all over South Korea. These are some of my favorite trails, along with a few weight-loss tricks I learned along the way.

Table of Contents

Jump to a section

• Why I Recommend These Hikes to Foreigners
• Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
• Hallasan Mountain (Jeju Island)
• Apsan Park (Daegu)
• Bukhansan National Park (Seoul)
• Palgonsan (Daegu)
• Daedunsan
• Gayasan National Park
• Geumosan (Gumi)
• Biseulsan (Daegu)
• Jirisan National Park
• Seoraksan National Park
• Hiking in South Korea
• Barefoot Hiking
• On the Trails
• Wildlife
• Soju and Safety
• Common Things to Bring on a Hike
• What Happens If You Get Hurt on the Trail
• Tips for Hiking in South Korea
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Why I Recommend These Hikes to Foreigners

When I first started hiking in South Korea, I didn’t know much about the trails. I didn’t speak Korean well, and I wasn’t an experienced hiker. I wanted beautiful views without worrying about getting lost or choosing a trail beyond my abilities. After hiking all over the country, I learned that some mountains are easier for foreigners to navigate. These are a few reasons I recommend starting with these trails.

Easy to Follow Trails and English Signs

One thing I appreciate about hiking in South Korea is the trail signs. Popular places like Seoraksan and Hallasan National Parks have maps and signs in English. That makes a big difference when you don’t speak Korean. I also use hiking apps like AllTrails to check distances, difficulty levels, and routes before heading out. I learned to pay attention after we accidentally took the wrong trail on Apsan Mountain.

Beautiful Views and Interesting Places Along the Way

I love a good mountain view, but I also enjoy everything along the trail. Some of my favorite hikes include temples, Buddha statues, waterfalls, and places to sit and rest. Hiking to Gatbawi on Palgongsan gave me a chance to see something I wouldn’t find back home. I enjoyed hearing monks chanting and watching people stop to pray. These little moments are often what I remember most about a hike.

Easy Access, Bathrooms, Cafes, and Cable Cars

I appreciate a challenging hike, but I also like having options. Many popular mountains have bathrooms, rest areas, cafes, and cable cars. Sometimes I want to hike all the way up. Other times, I’m perfectly happy taking the cable car and walking around the top. I especially appreciate having somewhere to sit, enjoy the view, and get something to eat afterward. These conveniences make hiking in South Korea easier, especially when you’re still getting used to the mountains.

Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) on Jeju Island

Steven and I got up at 3 a.m. to hike Seongsan Ilchulbong before sunrise. I wanted to see the sun come up over the ocean. Steven wasn’t thrilled about hiking on vacation, especially that early. The drive was nerve-wracking, with dark, winding roads and constant warnings from Kakao navigation. We hadn’t even had our morning coffee yet.

But the real challenge started when we reached the mountain. There were stairs everywhere, and they seemed to go on forever. I was breathing hard, my legs were tired, and the sky was already getting lighter. I kept looking up, wondering how much farther we had to climb. I didn’t want to come all that way and miss the sunrise. So I kept pushing, even when I needed to stop and catch my breath. We made it to the summit in time, and watching the sun rise over the ocean made the early morning worth it.

What to Expect at the Summit: The views of the ocean and volcanic crater are beautiful. The hike is short, but don’t underestimate those stairs. Give yourself at least 30 to 45 minutes to reach the top. If you’re hiking for sunrise, allow extra time for breaks.

Location: Jeju Island, Seogwipo-si
Height: 182 meters
Trail Length: 1.3 km round trip
Difficulty: Easy, but the stairs make it tiring
Best Time to Go: Early morning for sunrise views
Times to Avoid: Late morning, when crowds increase
Cost: The advertised entrance fee was 2,000 KRW for adults. However, nobody was collecting money when we arrived, so we didn’t pay. Parking was free, too.

Hallasan Mountain on Jeju Island

Hallasan is the tallest mountain in South Korea, standing 1,947 meters above sea level. It is also one of the most challenging hikes on Jeju Island. I love hiking, but this is not a mountain I would tackle without preparing first. The Seongpanak Trail is long, with nearly 10 kilometers of climbing before reaching the summit. And then you have to turn around and hike back down. That is a full day on your feet, so comfortable shoes and plenty of water are essential.

The trail takes you through forests and across volcanic terrain toward Baengnokdam, the crater at the summit. Seongpanak has a more gradual incline than the Gwaneumsa route, but don’t mistake gradual for easy. You still have hours of uphill walking ahead of you. I would choose a clear day because hiking that far and finding the summit covered in clouds would be disappointing.

What to Expect at the Summit: The main attraction is Baengnokdam, a volcanic crater that sometimes holds water. On clear days, you can see across Jeju Island from the summit. However, clouds and fog can block the views, even when conditions look good below.

Location: Hallasan National Park, Jeju Island
Height: 1,947 meters
Trail Length: Approximately 19.2 km round trip via Seongpanak
Difficulty: Difficult
Best Time to Go: Spring and autumn for comfortable hiking temperatures
Times to Avoid: Mid-summer heat and icy winter conditions without proper equipment
Cost: Free entry. Parking fees may apply. Summit trail reservations may be required.

Apsan Park (Daegu)

One of my favorite things about living in Daegu was having Apsan Mountain practically in my backyard. I didn’t have to plan a day trip or drive very far. Whenever I wanted to get outside, Apsan was right there. Steven and I hiked several trails, and I never got tired of going back. Some days we wanted a good workout. Other days, we just wanted to enjoy the views, visit a temple, or grab something to eat.

Our first hike didn’t exactly go as planned. We intended to hike to the cable car, but somehow missed the signs. Instead, we ended up climbing the wrong ridge. By the time we realized our mistake, we had already done plenty of climbing. We never reached the cable car that day, but we did get a beautiful view. We still laugh about that hike. And you can bet we paid closer attention to the signs afterward.

I especially loved visiting Apsan during Buddha’s Birthday. The colorful lanterns made the walk to Anilsa Temple even more beautiful. The temple sits high on the mountain, so getting there takes some effort. But I enjoyed the quiet surroundings and learning more about Korean Buddhist traditions. Apsan also has a cable car for days when you don’t want to hike uphill. I certainly appreciated having that option.

What to Expect on the Way to the Summit: Apsan has several trails with different difficulty levels. Some are relatively easy, while others involve steep climbs and plenty of stairs. The cable car takes you partway up the mountain. There are observation areas with beautiful views across Daegu. You’ll also find temples, rest areas, and places to eat along certain routes. Some lower paths are accessible, but the mountain trails aren’t suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

Location: Apsansunhwan-ro, Daegu
Height: Approximately 600 meters
Trail Length: Varies by route; some hikes are around 4 km round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on the trail
Best Time to Go: Spring or autumn
Times to Avoid: Busy weekend afternoons
Cost: Park entry is free. The cable car costs extra.

Bukhansan National Park (Seoul)

One thing I love about South Korea is that you don’t have to travel far to find a mountain. Even in Seoul, you can spend the morning hiking and return to the city afterward. Bukhansan National Park is one of the best places to do that. The park has several trails, but Baegundae Peak is the one that gets plenty of attention. And at 836 meters, getting to the top takes some work.

Don’t let the location fool you. Just because Bukhansan is in Seoul doesn’t mean it’s an easy walk. The trails have steep stairs, rocky paths, and sections where you’ll need to watch your footing. Some routes have ropes or railings to help you climb safely. Along the way, you’ll pass wooded areas, temples, and places to stop and catch your breath. I would definitely take my time on this one, especially near the summit.

What to Expect at the Summit: The biggest reason to hike Baegundae is the view. On a clear day, you can see Seoul stretching out below the surrounding mountains. I love that you can enjoy the mountains without leaving the city. However, the final climb is steep and rocky, so wear shoes with good traction. If you’re uncomfortable with heights, some sections may be challenging.

Location: Bukhansanseong-gil, Seoul
Height: Baegundae Peak – 836 meters
Trail Length: Approximately 8.4 km round trip, depending on your starting point
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Best Time to Go: Autumn for colorful leaves or spring for mild temperatures
Times to Avoid: Weekends and holidays when trails get crowded
Cost: Free entry. Parking fees may apply.

Palgonsan (Daegu)

Palgonsan is another popular hike near Daegu, known for its beautiful landscapes and the revered Gatbawi Buddha statue, a powerful spiritual and cultural site. This is a great mountain to hike, especially for those hoping to see Gatbawi up close and hear the peaceful chanting of monks that often fills the air. Visiting Gatbawi feels like a step into another world, with chanting creating a serene, meditative atmosphere that adds to the mountain’s charm.

I often drove to Palgonsan’s trail entrance just to take the gondola, even when I wasn’t planning to hike to the top, because the scenery alone is worth the trip. The mountain’s cable car transports visitors partway up, making it accessible for those looking for a shorter hike with breathtaking views. From the top, hikers enjoy sweeping panoramas of the region, especially spectacular during cherry blossom season when the mountain bursts into color.

What to Expect at the Summit: Palgonsan’s Gattbawi is worth the climb, and the views of Daegu and the depth of the surrounding mountain ranges are pretty nice, too.

Location: Palgongsan Mountain, Daegu
Height: 1,192 meters
Trail Length: Various trails from 4 km to 11 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Go: Spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for vibrant foliage
Times to Avoid: Weekends due to popularity
Cost: Free, with an optional cable car fee

Daedunsan (Jeollabuk-do and Chungcheongnam-do)

At 2,880 feet, Daedunsan can be a challenging hike. It is known for thousands of dramatic rock formations and the famous Cloud Bridge, which hangs 432 feet above rocky terrain. The mountain offers beautiful scenery and rewarding views from the top. The cable car takes you partway up in about five minutes. It’s advertised as saving an hour of hiking, but it felt more like two and a half, given how steep the path gets.

Once off the cable car, I tackled steep steps up to Geumgang Gureumdari, the iconic suspension bridge. It sits 900 feet above sea level and 432 feet above the ground, with incredible views for early birds who want the mountain to themselves. After crossing, the Cloud Bridge is a steep ladder leading to another peak. We decided to skip the final climb and headed down, stopping at a trail-side cafe for cold drinks, coffee, and ramen—a welcome reward after the trek.

What to Expect at the Summit: Even if you don’t climb Gureumdari (Cloud Bridge), it’s worth seeing it in person. And if you’re brave enough to tackle that ladder, you’ll look badass on the Gram.

Location: 8 Daedunsangongwon-gil, Unju-myeon, Wanju-gun, Jeollabuk-do
Height: 878 meters
Trail Length: 5 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Best Time to Go: Fall for vibrant autumn foliage
Times to Avoid: Rainy season, as trails can be slippery
Cost: Free, with an optional fee for the cable car

Gayasan National Park (Gyeongsangbuk-do)

Gayasan offers a serene hiking experience with cultural sites like Beopjusa Temple nestled along the trail. This moderate hike attracts visitors for its spiritual ambiance and scenic beauty. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful, and it’s not uncommon to see locals hiking barefoot to connect with nature and improve their health.

What to Expect on the Way to the Summit: Beopjusa Temple is one of the country’s most beloved temples, and that’s why it makes my top 10 best hikes for foreigners in South Korea.

Location: Gayasan-myeon, Seongju-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Height: 1,430 meters
Trail Length: 8 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Go: Spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for colorful foliage
Times to Avoid: Summer afternoons due to heat
Cost: Free entry, but some temples ask for a small donation.

Geumosan (Gumi)

Geumosan is popular among locals for its scenic trails and cultural sights. You’ll encounter Doseongsa Temple along the trail, offering a peaceful rest stop. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Gumi. It’s an ideal hike for those looking to experience nature and cultural heritage.

What to Expect at the Summit: This is one of our first hikes together, and it has unending views and the beautiful Doseongsa Temple along the way, where the monk chats seem to float in the air.

Location: Geumosan Mountain, Gumi-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Height: 977 meters
Trail Length: 7 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Go: Spring and autumn for mild weather
Times to Avoid: Winter due to icy conditions
Cost: Free

Biseulsan (Daegu)

Biseulsan is famous for its stunning azalea fields in the spring, drawing photographers and hikers alike. The trail is moderately challenging, with lush scenery that makes the climb worthwhile. During the Biseulsan Azalea Festival, the mountainside bursts into vibrant pink, creating a breathtaking scene.

The mountain also has one of the longest stairways you’ll ever climb—but you can take the bus back down for a small fee, thankfully! Each season brings its charm: vibrant blooms in spring, a fog-filled valley in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, and an ice-capped peak in winter.

What to Expect at the Summit: Expansive views and fields of blooming azaleas in spring are to due for!

Location: Biseulsan Mountain, Daegu
Height: 1,084 meters
Trail Length: 6.3 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Go: Spring (for azaleas) and autumn
Times to Avoid: Summer due to high humidity

Jirisan National Park (Gyeongsangnam-do)

Cheonwangbong Peak in Jirisan is one of South Korea’s highest peaks, offering a challenging ascent with lush landscapes and forested trails. Many hikers start pre-dawn to catch the sunrise, but preparation is essential due to the trail’s difficulty. Along the route, you’ll find temples and mountain lodges that provide a tranquil, spiritual experience, enhancing the journey through Jirisan’s vast, beautiful terrain.

What to Expect at the Summit: Views of rolling mountains and valleys and a challenge for those seaking one. This is not a summer hike.

Location: 265 Geum-dong, Hadong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do
Height: Cheonwangbong Peak – 1,915 meters
Trail Length: 12 km round trip (from Jungsan-ri)
Difficulty: Difficult
Best Time to Go: May or October
Times to Avoid: Summer, due to high temperatures and crowds
Cost: Free entry, with parking fees

Seoraksan National Park (Gangwon-do)

Seoraksan is a renowned hiking destination with steep trails and rock formations, offering some of the most scenic views in South Korea. The ascent to Daecheongbong Peak provides a moderately challenging journey, and along the way, you’ll find snack huts and cafes for refreshment. This trail is a favorite in autumn when the foliage transforms the mountain landscape into a vibrant spectacle.

What to Expect at the Summit: Stunning panoramic views of the Seorak mountain range, which is a sea of orange, yellow, and red in the fall!

Location: 1137 Seoraksan-ro, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do
Height: Daecheongbong Peak – 1,708 meters
Trail Length: 16 km round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Best Time to Go: Autumn for clear skies and foliage
Times to Avoid: Rainy season due to slippery conditions
Cost: 4,000 KRW for entry

Hiking in South Korea

Barefoot Hiking

Hiking in South Korea offers more than just stunning landscapes. It’s common to see hikers of all ages walking barefoot along the trails, a unique local practice believed to enhance health and foster a closer connection to nature. There are stretches where stones of varying shapes and sizes are embedded for this express purpose. Many Koreans embrace this tradition, saying barefoot hiking improves circulation, strengthens foot muscles, and promotes mental clarity. You’ll often find designated areas where hikers can remove their shoes and feel the earth beneath their feet.

On the Trails

South Korean trails are well-maintained and designed with thoughtful amenities. Along the paths, elevated platforms are perfect for resting, having a snack, or simply taking in the views. Many trails also feature outdoor gyms with basic exercise machines, allowing hikers to warm up or stretch. Public toilets are frequently available along popular routes, making hiking here convenient for all skill levels. Some of these toilets may be coin-operated, so carrying a few coins in Korean won is a good idea.

Wildlife

South Korea’s mountains are home to some wildlife, though encounters with dangerous animals are rare. Asiatic black bears, once more common, are now primarily found in Jirisan National Park, and sightings are uncommon. Wild boars are more widespread and may be seen in several regions, though they usually avoid humans. Boars can act aggressively if they feel threatened, so it’s wise to stay calm and avoid startling them. Beyond these, hikers are more likely to encounter harmless wildlife like deer, squirrels, and various birds.

Despite hiking across different mountains as a foreigner, I’ve yet to encounter a bear or boar on any trail.

Soju and Safety

On South Korean trails, it’s not uncommon to see older men enjoying a drink of soju, Korea’s traditional distilled spirit, especially during weekend or holiday hikes. While this custom is often a part of social gatherings in nature, it has also contributed to statistics showing that older men are disproportionately involved in accidental falls on the trails.

Common Things to Bring on a Hike

• Water and Snacks: Many trails lack water stations, so pack enough water and energizing snacks.
• Sturdy Hiking Shoes: Especially on more rugged trails, good shoes help prevent injuries.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essentials, as some trails lack shade.
• Extra Layers: Weather can change quickly, especially on higher mountains. A lightweight jacket is always helpful.
• First Aid Kit: Even basic items like band-aids or an antiseptic can be helpful for minor injuries.
• Trash Bag: There are usually no bins, so pack out what you pack to keep trails clean.
• Walking Sticks: Many trails are steep, and walking sticks can provide balance and support.
• Korean Won Coins: Handy for small souvenirs, coin-operated toilets, or for rides down the mountain on a bus or gondola, which often require cash payments.

What Happens If You Get Hurt on the Trail

Hiking in South Korea feels safe and well organized, but things can still go wrong. One wrong step or a slip on wet stone can turn a good hike into a problem fast. When you are in another country, even a small injury can feel stressful because you do not know how much care will cost or how to get help fast.

That is why many travelers use SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance Essential while hiking abroad. It is travel medical insurance, not local healthcare. It covers emergency medical care, hospital stays, and medical evacuation, with coverage up to $250,000. That coverage matters when you are far from home and need help fast.

SafetyWing works in more than 180 countries and can be purchased even after your trip has started. There is no deductible. The plan focuses on emergencies, which makes sense for travel and outdoor activities.

If you are planning a trip abroad, you can see pricing or get more information here: https://safetywing.com/nomad-insurance/?referenceID=26466581&campaign=hiking&utm_campaign=hiking&utm_source=26466581&utm_medium=Ambassador.

Tips for Hiking in South Korea

Start Early
It’s best to start at dawn for popular trails to avoid crowds. And there will be crowds.

Stay Hydrated
Many trails don’t have water stations, so bring enough water.

Check the Weather
Korean mountains can have sudden weather changes, so check the forecast.

Respect Nature
Follow local hiking etiquette and clean up after yourself. But don’t necessarily follow local hikers. They often go rogue, cutting new and sometimes dangerous trails.

Each of these hikes for foreigners provides a unique way to connect with South Korea’s diverse natural landscapes, whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking for a new adventure. You’ll either love it or hate it. There is no in-between. I started hiking as a form of exercise, and it works. I lost 60 pounds hiking with my husband and friends. We often finished our hikes at a cafe or coffee shop, making it a rewarding end to each trek.

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