Foreign tourists pose at Yeongbong Peak on Mount Bukhan after completing a fall foliage hiking program, Oct. 30. Courtesy of Seoul Tourism Organization

Hiking in Seoul is attracting an increasing number of foreign visitors, with 17,600 of the 40,000 visitors to Seoul Hiking Tourism Centers being international tourists — approximately one in three — according to the Seoul Tourism Organization (STO), Monday.

These centers aim to support hikers with services like equipment rental, luggage storage, changing facilities and detailed guidance on Seoul's mountain trails. The centers also offer various programs tailored to enhance the hiking experiences of visitors.

Currently, three Seoul Hiking Tourism Centers are in operation, located near Mount Bukhan, Mount Bugak and Mount Gwanak.

The first center, opened in 2022 near Mount Bukhan in Gangbuk District, reflects the challenging terrain of Seoul's only national park.

Known for its steep mountain paths, the area's center is equipped with a wide array of safety gear, including crampons and hiking sticks, to support safe hiking. This year alone, more than 1,300 items have been rented out to hikers.

The second hiking center, located near Mount Bugak in Samcheong-dong in central Seoul's Jongno District, began trial operations last November before officially opening in April.

The center is built in a "hanok" style (a traditional Korean house) and offers visitors a unique urban hiking experience with scenic views of nearby Gwanghwamun Square and Gyeongbok Palace, along with options for short hikes and picnics.

The center also hosts a monthly program designed for foreign visitors. This program includes cultural and hiking experiences through activities such as calligraphy, soap-making with Mount Bugak motifs and brewing "makgeolli," Korea's traditional rice alcoholic beverage.

A center near Mount Gwanak has been in pilot operation since Nov. 1 and has quickly become one of the most popular destinations for hikers.

Within its first week, the center attracted over 3,000 visitors, including both locals and tourists. The center also offers a variety of hiking programs specifically designed for international visitors.

Group tours tailored for foreign tourists, companies and travel agencies are also on the rise. This year, 230 participants from 40 countries joined tour programs, exploring Seoul's mountains and discovering the city's outdoor attractions.

"The mountains in Seoul are accessible and easy to climb, making hiking tourism a new trend among foreign visitors," said Kil Ki-yon, head of the STO.

"We plan to help more international tourists fully experience Seoul's iconic mountains by providing them with K-climbing information and services at the Seoul Hiking Tourism Centers."