Hiking in Korea Cheat Sheet: Top 3 Mountains & Survival Tips

If you think hiking in Korea is just a casual walk in the park, you are making a dangerous mistake. In reality, hiking is a national sport here. Specifically, it involves professional gear, steep granite rocks, and a lot of Makgeolli (Rice Wine).

Many tourists underestimate the mountains. Because they look small compared to the Alps or Rockies, people assume they are easy. However, Korean mountains are steep, rocky, and unforgiving.

Welcome to the Hiking Cheat Sheet. Let me share the story of how I tried to conquer a “small hill” in Seoul and got humbled by a 70-year-old grandma.

Alice struggling with hiking in Korea while locals pass her easily.

Level 1: The Nightmare of “Sneaker Hiking”

Flashback: Last Autumn. Bukhansan National Park.

Initially, I wanted to see the famous autumn leaves. Since the mountain is right inside Seoul, I assumed, “It must be an easy trail, like Central Park.” Consequently, I wore my favorite Converse sneakers and skinny jeans. Furthermore, I brought only a single small bottle of water. I didn’t even pack a snack.

The first 20 minutes were fine. But the trail soon turned into a wall of solid rock. There were no stairs. Instead, I had to pull myself up using metal cables. My sneakers kept slipping on the smooth granite. Simultaneously, a group of Korean “Ajummas” (middle-aged women) in full professional neon gear zoomed past me. They were chatting and laughing while I was gasping for air.

Eventually, I reached the halfway point, shaking and starving. I saw people eating kimbap, cucumbers, and cup noodles. I had nothing. In the end, I didn’t reach the peak that day. I crawled back down, hungry and defeated.

Level 2: The Solution (Gear & Snacks)

Later, I met Ssam while limping. Immediately, he shook his head. “Alice, hiking in Korea is 50% fitness and 50% preparation. You cannot climb Bukhansan in Converse.”

Here is how to survive the Korean trails:

1. Proper Shoes are Mandatory

Korean mountains are mostly Granite (Stone). Therefore, they are extremely slippery, especially if it rains.

Do: Wear hiking boots with good grip.
In contrast: Do not wear sandals, canvas shoes, or fashion sneakers. You will break an ankle.

2. The “Cucumber” Culture

Additionally, you will see everyone eating Cucumbers on the trail.

Why: They are hydrating and easy to carry.
Snack Pack: Also, bring Kimbap (Seaweed Rice Roll), Chocolate bars, and plenty of water.
Reward: After the hike, go to a restaurant at the bottom for Pajeon and Makgeolli. This is the most important part of hiking in Korea.

Level 3: Ssam’s Picks (Top 3 Mountains)

Now that you have the gear, where should you go? Ssam recommends these three mountains for the best experience.

1. Bukhansan (The City Guardian)

First, this is the only national park located inside a mega-city.

Difficulty: Hard (Steep rocks).
Why: You can see the entire Seoul skyline from the peak (Baegundae). Moreover, it is accessible by subway.
Best Season: Spring and Autumn.

2. Seoraksan (The Autumn King)

Next, located in the east (Sokcho), it is the most beautiful mountain in Korea.

Difficulty: Medium to Very Hard.
Why: The rock formations and autumn foliage are world-class.
Tip: If you are lazy, take the Cable Car to Gwongeumseong Fortress. The view is stunning with zero effort.

3. Hallasan (The Island Giant)

Finally, the highest mountain in South Korea, located on Jeju Island.

Difficulty: Long but steady.
Why: It is a dormant volcano with a crater lake at the top.
Crucially, you must reserve a hiking slot online in advance.

Beautiful autumn foliage at Seoraksan, a highlight of hiking in Korea.

Level 4: Action Links (Maps & Info)

(Don’t get lost. Use these links.)

Ready to climb? Plan your route here.

Mountain Guides

Getting There

Alice’s Bottom Line: Earn Your Makgeolli

Hiking here is tough, but the feeling of reaching the peak is addictive. The fresh air, the views, and the shared camaraderie on the trail make it special.

Therefore, buy some hiking boots, pack a cucumber, and conquer the peaks. The Makgeolli tastes 10 times better after you sweat.

Survival Hangul: Hiking Edition

“정상까지 얼마나 남았어요?” (How far to the peak?)
“안녕하세요!” (Hello! – Say this to fellow hikers).
“막걸리 한 잔 주세요.” (One cup of Makgeolli, please.)

Read This Next (Before You Make Another Mistake)

Conquered the mountain? Now relax.