Seoul Half Marathon

The 2026 Seoul Half Marathon is a premier urban racing event scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026. Co-hosted by the Chosun Ilbo and the Seoul Metropolitan Government, this race offers a rare opportunity to run through the heart of South Korea’s capital without the interference of city traffic. The event is designed to connect the city's historic center with its modern riverside parks, providing a fast and scenic course that attracts thousands of competitive club runners and enthusiastic hobbyists alike. Due to its high popularity, registration for both the Half and 10km courses typically closes on a first-come, first-served basis months in advance.

Race Logistics and Route Experience

The race begins at the iconic Gwanghwamun Square, the historical soul of Seoul. From the starting line, runners head south, crossing the Han River via one of the city's major bridges. The 10km course finishes at Yeouido Park, the city's central financial district hub, while the Half Marathon continues further west along the riverside to reach the Peace Square at Sangam World Cup Park. The event is strictly managed with a focused timeline for registration and payment, reflecting its status as a high-demand professional race. Participants receive official record certificates and high-quality souvenirs as part of their entry, with the Chosun Ilbo Secretariat providing comprehensive support for athlete inquiries and record tracking.

Regional and Community Context

Seoul is a sprawling metropolis where 600 years of Joseon Dynasty history meets cutting-edge technological innovation. Gwanghwamun Square, the race’s starting point, is flanked by Gyeongbokgung Palace and modern skyscrapers, serving as a symbol of this cultural duality. The city is defined by its rapid pace, efficient public infrastructure, and a growing passion for health and wellness. The Han River, which serves as a centerpiece for the race route, is the lifeblood of the city, lined with expansive parks that have become essential spaces for leisure and athletic training for Seoul’s 9.4 million residents.

The local running community in Seoul is exceptionally active, with hundreds of "running crews" meeting nightly across the city's various districts. This marathon is more than a race; it is a celebration of the city's resilience and its transition into a more pedestrian-friendly and active urban environment. Residents often line the streets and bridges to cheer on the runners, creating an electric atmosphere in districts like Mapo and Yeongdeungpo. By finishing at major landmarks like the World Cup Stadium, the event reinforces Seoul’s identity as a global sporting capital that values both its storied past and its dynamic, healthy future.