Seoul, South Korea — For many, hiking is a weekend ritual. But for this group of foreign residents, it was a brand-new adventure — and a climb they won’t soon forget.
In this episode of Howdy Korea, international residents living in Seoul laced up their boots and set out to climb Mount Bukhan in Bukhansan National Park, one of the capital’s most iconic peaks. Just a short subway ride from downtown, the mountain welcomes first-time hikers with steep trails, shady pines and wide-open views.
The day began with excitement and a bit of nervous energy as they rented gear at the Seoul Hiking Tourism Center, packed snacks and applied sunscreen. But once the trail started to climb, so did the challenge. “It’s like a sauna,” one participant gasped, as sweat began to soak through their shirts. There were moments of silence and laughter, and more than a few queries of, “Wait, how far is it to the top?”
After a mid-hike break with cucumbers and tangerines, the group was faced with a choice. Some decided to continue upward, aiming for the summit despite the heat, the incline and the growing ache in their legs. Others turned toward a peaceful path leading to Doseonsa, a historic temple tucked into the forest, followed by a quiet rest at a hilltop cafe with panoramic views of the valley below.
Two directions. Two rhythms. Same mountain.
The summit team climbed higher, while the temple-and-cafe team slowed down, taking in the sounds, the shade and a different perspective.
On the way down, the two groups reunited — some flushed from the climb, others refreshed from the shade. Together, they gathered at the foot of the mountain, sharing makgeolli and jeon, and raising their glasses in six different languages.
What did they see at the top?
What kind of quiet did they find under the temple eaves?
Which view was better: the peak or the cafe window?
Watch the full story on Howdy Korea's YouTube channel to find out.