33,236 Mountain Rescue Cases in the Past 3 Years
"You Must Use Designated Hiking Trails"
As autumn arrives, many people are taking to the hiking trails, but there is a growing trend of groups seeking out 'unofficial trails' (bitamro) rather than the designated paths. Unofficial trails are uneven and pose a high risk of serious accidents such as slips and falls, and they can also damage the ecosystem, leading to calls for stricter enforcement.
According to Asia Economy's investigation, well-known mountaineering clubs regularly hold 'stamp collecting' gatherings where members conquer unofficial trails instead of official ones. Every week, they visit trails in major national parks such as Seoraksan and Bukhansan, as well as smaller provincial parks, usually with groups of fewer than 20 people. One recruitment post stated, "Looking for companions to join a 12-hour course from Hangyeryeong to Baekdamsa in Seoraksan," adding, "We plan to use unofficial trails, so members with hiking experience will be prioritized." Posts seeking members to hike from Dalma Peak to Sinheungsa in Seoraksan via unofficial trails were also commonly seen.
Kang (54), who has been active in mountaineering clubs for over 10 years, said, "Among members who frequently use official trails, some deliberately seek out unofficial trails to walk on old paths that remain natural and untouched by human intervention," adding, "They also share unofficial trails where they can see more spectacular views."
Under the current Natural Parks Act, hiking on unofficial trails in national parks is strictly illegal, with fines up to 500,000 KRW for violations. However, for parks other than national parks, there is no legal concept of official trails, so hikers are not legally penalized for using less frequented paths.
Nonetheless, unofficial or rarely used trails are rugged and unmanaged, increasing the risk of accidents such as slips or exhaustion. According to the Fire Agency, over the past three years (2021?2023), there were 33,236 mountain rescue cases nationwide, with 25% occurring in the cooler months of September and October. Last year, the most common cause of accidents was 'slips and falls' (3,186 cases).
An official from a national park management office said, "Compared to other incidents, accidents caused by entering unofficial trails are overwhelmingly more frequent. Most people who become exhausted during hikes give up after taking unofficial trails," adding, "Experienced hikers seem to find official trails boring and seek out unofficial paths for a different experience."
Officials urge hikers to use only designated trails to prevent the concentration of mountain accidents in autumn. A Forestry Service representative explained, "Unofficial trails are unfamiliar, increasing the likelihood of hikers losing their way, and accidents such as exhaustion or slips can lead to fatalities," emphasizing, "Hikers should always use designated trails, check their physical condition before hiking, and choose trails that match their skill level."
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