Outdoor and hiking wear culture

Much of Korea is mountainous, so there are hills worth climbing close to most cities, and hiking has become one of the country's signature pastimes. Many people own technical hiking gear and, because it is comfortable, wear it even away from the mountains. On weekend mornings, subway cars are often full of people in hiking outfits.

Hiking clothes are light, stretchy, quick-drying and windproof, which makes them comfortable for daily wear. Among middle-aged and older Koreans in particular, they became practical outfits for trips and gatherings. More recently young people have embraced outdoor wear as fashion too, broadening its image.

Gorpcore is a style that turns outdoor performance gear, such as hiking and camping clothes, into everyday fashion. Windbreakers, fleeces, hiking shoes and utility vests are mixed into city outfits. The style has been very popular among young people in Korea as well as abroad.

The basic approach is layers: a quick-drying base layer, an insulating middle layer and an outer shell that blocks wind and rain. It is colder at the top than at the bottom and weather changes quickly, so bring extra clothes and rain gear. Park authorities also advise preparing clothing and equipment suited to the season.

Cotton dries slowly once it gets wet with sweat or rain, so it can leave you chilled. Body temperature can drop quickly on windy summits or in cool seasons. Quick-drying synthetic fabrics or wool are the safer choice for hiking.

Korean mountain trails often have rocks, loose stones and steep sections, so hiking shoes with grippy soles are safer. For short, easy trails, sneakers with good traction may be enough. Break in new hiking shoes before wearing them on long hikes.

No. For city parks or flat walking trails, comfortable athletic wear and sneakers are plenty. It is still a good idea to carry water and a light jacket, and in summer, to wear a hat and protect yourself from the sun.

South Korea has 23 national parks, with Palgongsan designated as the 23rd in 2023. Most are mountain parks, but there are also marine and coastal parks. Trail conditions and closure information are available from the Korea National Park Service's official channels.

Yes. From the late 2000s into the early 2010s, outdoor clothing boomed in Korea. As more people took up hiking and technical clothes became everyday wear, many outdoor brands emerged. The boom later cooled, but camping and gorpcore have brought renewed interest.

Temperatures at campsites drop sharply at night, so pack a warm layer along with your daytime clothes. Near campfires or braziers, cotton or flame-resistant outer layers are safer than thin synthetics, which can melt from sparks. Long trousers also help against insects and brush.

Waterproof-breathable means the fabric keeps rain out while letting sweat vapor escape. Quick-dry, often labeled as moisture-wicking, means it absorbs sweat and dries fast. Performance varies even under the same label, so read the product details and care instructions. Labels may also note whether the item can be machine washed.

Winter trails are slippery with snow and ice, so bring crampons, known in Korea as 'aizen', that attach to your boots. You also need an insulated jacket, gloves, a hat, a neck warmer and spare socks. Days are short, so plan a shorter route and check weather and trail closures in advance.

Wear breathable, quick-drying short sleeves or thin long sleeves, plus a hat and sun protection. Sudden showers are common, so a light rain jacket is worth packing. Drink plenty of water and avoid pushing yourself during the hottest part of the day.

Bright, vivid colors are easy to spot on a mountain, which helps hiking groups stay together and makes people easier to find in an emergency. They also stand out nicely in photos against natural scenery. These days there are also plenty of outdoor clothes in muted colors that suit everyday wear.

Check the care label on technical garments first. Some products state that fabric softener can reduce their waterproof or water-repellent performance, so follow that advice when the label or product guide says so. Waterproof shells can lose water repellency over time, so it is best to follow the care instructions for each product.

Dulle-gil trails circle around mountain foothills or follow coastlines rather than climbing steeply, so light athletic wear and comfortable shoes are enough. Longer routes can take several hours, though, so bring water, a light layer and a hat. On windy coastal routes such as Jeju's Olle trails, a windbreaker is useful.

Korea has many sanakhoe, or hiking clubs, and members sometimes wear matching vests or T-shirts. The group's name is printed on them so members can spot each other easily. Companies and alumni groups often make similar outfits when they hold hiking events.

Many Korean mountains have Buddhist temples, and trails sometimes pass through their grounds. Inside temple grounds, avoid overly revealing clothing and pass quietly. If you want to look inside a worship hall, take off your hat, arrange your shoes and follow any posted guidance.

Trail running means running on mountain paths, so lightweight, quick-drying clothing and trail shoes with strong grip are the basics. Many runners use a small vest-style pack for water and emergency items. Bring a thin windbreaker in case the weather changes.

Yes. During the spring and autumn wildfire prevention periods, some trails may be closed to prevent forest fires. Closed sections and dates differ by national park and local government, so check official notices before you go. Smoking and lighting fires on mountains are prohibited.