South Korea is beginning to explore its mountain tourism potential as a new draw for international tourists. Eleven hikers from France became the first to try out this program, climbing Mount Bukhansan in Seoul.
The group belongs to the Fédération Française de la Randonnée Pédestre (FFRP), France’s largest hiking federation. The group is undertaking an 11-day trip to explore a range of South Korea’s natural and cultural destinations.
According to The Korea Herald (Sunday, September 6, 2026), South Korea’s Minister of Culture, Chae Hwi-young, personally welcomed the group at Bukhansan National Park. South Korean mountaineer Um Hong-gil also accompanied them along the hiking trail.
The First Trial of the K-Trekking Challenge
This activity marks the first trial run of the K-Trekking Challenge program, launched by the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) together with the Korea National Park Service. Both organizations are targeting 3 million tourist visits to national parks by 2028.
Through this program, foreign tourists can borrow hiking shoes and trekking poles free of charge. Participants also receive a keychain souvenir.
The FFRP’s visit follows KTO’s promotion of several South Korean trekking trails in France. Founded in 1947, the federation has around 240,000 members.
The Full Itinerary
Around 40 of its members will visit South Korea across three groups, each on an 11-day trip. After Bukhansan, the group will continue on to Hahoe Village in Andong, Namsan in Gyeongju, Geumjeongsan in Busan, Suncheonman Bay in South Jeolla Province, and Mount Jirisan. They will also take part in a templestay program at Hwaeomsa, Gurye.
Why South Korea Sees Trekking Potential
South Korea holds significant potential for developing trekking tourism. Around 70% of the country’s territory consists of mountains and hills.
According to Korea Forest Service data, forested areas also cover roughly 63% of South Korea’s territory, the fourth-largest proportion among OECD countries, behind Finland, Sweden, and Japan.
“Korea has four distinct seasons, beautiful and varied mountains across the country, and a history and culture that make walking a genuinely engaging activity. We hope this visit by members of the French federation becomes an opportunity to introduce Korean trekking to the world,” said an official from South Korea’s Ministry of Culture.
