Hiking

outdoor gym on a hilltop

Mt. Surisan

Hiking is the national past-time and for good reason.  Korea is a country with lots of mountains with cities hugging the valleys.  This makes a perfect equation for hiking.  You will see people on the Subways as early at 5am decked out in their hiking gear heading to trails surrounding Seoul and other cities.  Most people have really eccentric hiking gear with bright colors and many accessories.  It almost seems like there is dress code because almost everyone has quality equipment.  

a friend we made hiking 

Behind my apartment there is a outdoor gym on top of a hill.  These are quite popular and one can find them on almost every trail.  They are not like the gyms we are used to in the States and since they are outdoor they only rely on resistance and body weight.  Regardless, I have come to really appreciate these trails and gyms as they make it really easy to exercise.  Many older Koreans are in great shape and I am almost certain it is because of the availability of these machines and spaces.