In South Korea, walking isn’t just a way to get from one place to another—it’s a part of daily life, a health trend, and even a cultural habit. From young students to elderly citizens, walking is one of the most common ways Koreans stay active. What makes it special is how Korea has made walking not only easy but also enjoyable for everyone.
One reason walking is so popular in Korea is the country’s excellent urban design. Cities like Seoul and Busan are filled with wide sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly roads, clean parks, and scenic walking trails—even in busy downtown areas. Many people live close to shops, schools, and public transportation, so walking becomes a natural part of the day. In fact, many Koreans walk to subway stations, then to school or work, and back again—all in one day. The environment supports this habit with clean streets, safety, and convenience.
But it’s not just about city planning—it’s also about mindset. Koreans take health and appearance seriously. Walking is seen as a free and easy way to stay fit, lose weight, and stay young. Step-counting apps, smartwatches, and walking challenges are very popular. Some companies even reward employees for meeting step goals! In addition, Korea’s beautiful mountains and river parks make walking a relaxing activity. People go on long walks with friends or family, especially on weekends. It’s a social activity and a way to enjoy nature.
The world can learn a lot from Korea’s walking culture. It helps people stay healthy, reduces pollution, and brings communities closer. By building better paths, encouraging walking at school and work, and making it a fun, shared activity, other countries can also make walking cool—just like Korea has done
Reference links: https://www.koreadailyus.com/walk-to-earn-daily-steps/
https://use.metropolis.org/case-studies/walkable-city-seoul
https://seoulsolution.kr/en/content/6307
- Reported by Manisha
Intern at the Korean Academy
Korean news analysis and reporting
