K-Hiking Takes Off: Foreign Visitors Head for Korea's Mountains as Autumn Foliage Peaks

Forget shopping bags in Myeongdong — this autumn, more foreign travelers are packing hiking boots. According to Klook booking data, traffic to hiking tour products in Korea rose about 22% between July 1 and October 10 compared with a year earlier, led by users from the U.S. (+38%) and Europe (+34%). The numbers Seoraksan: hiking-related tour traffic up 87%, the steepest rise of any destination Seoraksan or Naejangsan day tours: up 122% among U.S. travelers Bukhansan half-day small-group tours: up 83% among Europeans Gear rentals for Seoul's city mountains: up 145% among Europeans Perfect timing: foliage season is here The Korea Forest Service forecasts peak foliage (when at least half the leaves have turned) at Seoraksan on October 20, Songnisan on October 28, Naejangsan on November 4, and Hallasan on November 6. Ginkgo trees peak around October 30, maples and oaks around October 31. Why "K-hiking" is catching on Trailheads for Bukhansan and Gwanaksan are just a subway ride from central Seoul, so you can sightsee in the morning and summit in the afternoon. No gear? Seoul's Hiking Tourism Centers at Bukhansan, Bugaksan, and Gwanaksan (09:00–18:00) rent boots, clothing, and poles to foreign visitors and offer trail tips in English, Chinese, and Japanese. And then there's the food: gimbap at the summit, makgeolli and pajeon after the descent. Tip: Weekends at peak season get crowded — start early, bring a warm layer, and check knps.or.kr for trail updates. Rentals and info: seoulhiking.or.kr