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Tag: Seoraksan

  • Seoraksan National Park Warns Against Illegal Climbing at 1275 Peak

    The Korea National Park Service has issued a public appeal urging hikers to refrain from entering Seoraksan’s 1275 Peak, emphasizing that the area is an officially restricted zone.

    Located along the Dinosaur Ridge, 1275 Peak is not part of the designated hiking trail, yet it has gained popularity on social media as visitors climb it to post photos from the summit. This has caused growing concern for park authorities. The rocky peak rises about 20 meters above the official route and lacks safety installations such as stairs or fixed ropes, making it a highly dangerous area. In September, a man in his 60s who went missing near the site was later found dead, and last June, a hiker in his 30s suffered injuries after falling from the ridge.

    On October 11, the Seoraksan National Park office posted an announcement on its official social media accounts, stating: “Seoraksan’s 1275 Peak is not a stage for ‘likes’ — it is a restricted area that needs protection, not selfies.” The park also urged users to delete all photos and videos related to the site to prevent further copycat visits and secondary accidents.

  • Autumn Hikers Warned as Fire Prevention Restrictions Begin Early

    Hikers eager to enjoy Korea’s vibrant autumn foliage have been met with disappointing news. The government has implemented an early “Autumn Mountain Fire Prevention Entry Ban” beginning October 20 — 12 days earlier than usual.

    The measure, aimed at supporting the upcoming APEC Summit in Gyeongju and responding to climate abnormalities, has sparked debate as it coincides with the peak foliage season. While some criticize the move as excessive, experts view it as a necessary shift toward a new disaster response framework in the era of climate crisis.

    Public sentiment remains largely supportive. According to a survey by the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission, 89% of respondents agreed with expanding restricted mountain areas, and 81% supported higher fines. Ultimately, the decision is seen as an unavoidable step to protect lives and property from a wildfire risk that has surged eightfold, even at the cost of some seasonal inconvenience.

    The entry restrictions primarily apply to national and municipal forests under the Korea Forest Service. However, national parks such as Seoraksan and Jirisan, managed by the Korea National Park Service, will enforce their usual closure period from November 15 to December 15. Those planning autumn hikes are strongly advised to check access conditions before visiting.