About 200 Barefoot Walking Trails in Seoul
Exercise Benefits Present, but Caution Needed
"I've been walking barefoot here for the past three years, and I can definitely say that my visits to the hospital have decreased."
Kim Sangim (75) and residents are walking barefoot on the trail at the summit of Gungdong Mountain in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul. Photo by Choi Youngchan
As walking exercises gain popularity among the senior generation, barefoot walking trails are being established across the country.
On September 12, Kim Sangim (75), who was participating in a barefoot walking exercise near the summit of Gungdong Mountain in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, said, "Walking barefoot itself is great, but I think it's even better because it gets me outside, walking and sweating." Mr. Yoon (68) shared, "I started walking barefoot during my recovery after surgery last year," adding, "I've noticed that my sleep quality has improved after exercising." At this location, six seniors were walking along the barefoot track, each holding a fan in hand.
According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, as of January this year, there are about 200 barefoot walking trails in the city. This is nearly double the 102 trails recorded last year. The rapid increase is the result of numerous requests from residents to expand barefoot trails during public consultations. In some cases, local governments have officially designated and improved areas that residents had previously used as dirt paths, turning them into official walking trails.
The barefoot walking trend is spreading nationwide as well. According to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety's Local Legislation Information System, more than 190 out of 243 basic local governments across the country have enacted ordinances to promote barefoot walking. In Seoul, 20 out of 25 districts have established related ordinances, providing a basis for management and support.
The feet of Mr. Yoon (68), who is walking barefoot at Haemaji Hill in Ogin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul. Photo by Youngchan Choi
Barefoot walking can help increase activity levels and support health maintenance for the elderly. However, proper management is crucial, as there is a risk of injury if stones or pieces of glass remain on the dirt paths.
Kang Jaeheon, a professor of family medicine at Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, said, "Walking barefoot can provide exercise benefits compared to not exercising at all. However, if you get a wound on your foot while walking barefoot, there is a risk of secondary infection and potential joint problems, so caution is necessary."
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