BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA – The starting point of the ambitious 4,500-kilometer Korea Duraegil (둘레길), a walking trail tracing the entire coastline of the Korean Peninsula, buzzed with renewed energy today as the "2025 First Half Walking Tourism Week" was officially declared at Oryukdo (오륙도) in Busan. This national initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) and the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), signals a nationwide push to transform the Duraegil from a mere walking path into a central pillar of regional tourism.
The declaration ceremony held at the Oryukdo Sunrise Park Information Center was particularly significant as it celebrated the remarkable achievement of the first individuals to complete the entire Korea Duraegil since its full opening in September 2024. These dedicated walking enthusiasts, averaging approximately 20 kilometers a day, spent an impressive 68 months traversing the 284 individual courses. In recognition of their extraordinary feat, a "Hall of Fame" was unveiled at the Oryukdo starting point, a testament to their perseverance and a source of inspiration for future trekkers.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the Walking Tourism Week welcomed 30 specially selected "Walking Expedition Team" members. These individuals will embark on a journey along the Namparang Trail (남파랑길), immersing themselves in the picturesque landscapes and rural villages of the southern coast. Through their active engagement on social media, they will share their experiences in real-time, aiming to ignite public interest and participation in walking tourism. This expedition is a key component of a nationwide campaign to promote walking culture and highlight the unique characteristics and tourism resources of various regions.
A significant aspect of this initiative is the extensive collaboration between private enterprises and public organizations. The Korea Sports Promotion Foundation (KSPO) is incentivizing participation by offering "Teunteun Money" (튼튼머니), a form of sports activity points, to those who complete at least one Duraegil course. The National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) is running a pilot program providing health support funds for individuals who actively engage in walking.
Leading corporations are also joining the movement. Samsung Electronics will integrate walking 인증 (certification) and challenges into its health application. Kakao plans to launch tourism products centered around recommended Korea Duraegil courses and has partnered for joint promotional events. Outdoor brand Kolon Sport will offer discounts upon walking 인증, while the National Lighthouse Museum under the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries will organize events linking the trails with nearby lighthouse cultural heritage sites.
This ambitious walking tourism project transcends a simple health campaign, aiming to inject vitality into local economies and tourism sectors. Rest areas and regionally specific content will be strategically placed along the trails, and local governments are developing their own walking programs to attract visitors. The journey that begins in Oryukdo will weave its way along the Haeparang Trail (해파랑길) on the east coast, the Namparang Trail on the south coast, the Seohaerang Trail (서해랑길) on the west coast, and finally the DMZ Peace Trail (DMZ 평화의 길), culminating near Ganghwa Island. This extended trek offers a unique opportunity to "slowly rediscover Korea's outer edges."
Building on the momentum of this spring event, the government plans to host a second Walking Tourism Week in the fall. The "Dureunubi App" (두루누비 앱), a dedicated platform providing information and resources about the Korea Duraegil, will be central to both online and offline promotional efforts and aims to broaden public participation. This marks the full-fledged launch of a national walking platform accessible to everyone.
The Korea Duraegil, envisioned as a long-distance trail comparable to Spain’s Camino de Santiago or Japan’s Kumano Kodo, offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. Walkers can immerse themselves in coastal scenery, traverse through rural landscapes, and delve into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the peninsula. The trail connects numerous national parks, historical sites, and local attractions, providing opportunities for cultural immersion and interaction with local communities.
Beyond the scenic beauty and health benefits, the Korea Duraegil initiative is expected to generate significant economic benefits for local communities along its path. Increased tourism will support local businesses, create employment opportunities, and promote the unique products and traditions of each region. The development of infrastructure such as rest stops, accommodations, and information centers will further enhance the walking experience and contribute to regional development.
The collaborative efforts between government agencies, private companies, and local communities underscore the national commitment to the success of the Korea Duraegil. By integrating technology, offering incentives, and creating engaging experiences, the "2025 First Half Walking Tourism Week" marks a significant step towards establishing the Duraegil as a premier walking destination and a vital asset for South Korea's tourism landscape. The call to lace up walking shoes and embark on a journey of discovery has been sounded, inviting both locals and international visitors to experience the beauty and spirit of Korea, one step at a time.
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