In October, When 'Gaeulsanhaeng' Peaks, 13.6% of Hiking Casualties Occur

Ministry of the Interior and Safety Urges Use of Designated Hiking Trails and Descend Before Dark

[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] The Ministry of the Interior and Safety has reported that the highest number of hiking accidents occur in October, the peak season for autumn foliage, and has urged hikers to exercise extra caution during their trips.

According to statistics from the Korea National Park Service on the 14th, a total of 28.98 million visitors hiked in the 17 national parks across the country last year, with the highest number of 4.1 million visitors in October. By national park, Bukhansan saw the most visitors with 5.57 million, followed by Mudeungsan with 3.16 million, Jirisan with 3.01 million, and Seoraksan with 2.87 million.

In October, the number of hikers increases due to the autumn foliage, resulting in the highest number of hiking accidents and casualties. Of the 36,718 hiking accidents annually, 13.2% (4,845 cases) occurred in October, and of the 28,262 annual hiking casualties, 13.6% (3,833 people) were concentrated in October.

By cause of accident, slips and falls accounted for the largest share at 33.2% (12,207 out of 36,718 cases), followed by getting lost at 18.0% (6,623 cases), entering restricted or dangerous areas and violations such as drinking at 15.5% (5,709 cases), and personal illnesses at 11.3% (4,135 cases).

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety emphasized that during this season of changing weather, when daylight hours shorten and temperature differences increase, it is more important than ever to follow basic safety rules such as using designated hiking trails and avoiding entry into restricted or dangerous areas.

Additionally, when going to the mountains, hikers should bring extra clothing to prepare for the cold, and be especially careful when walking as trails and grass may be slippery due to dew and frost. During hikes, it is important to rest adequately according to one’s physical condition and to descend immediately if any abnormal symptoms occur.

Kim Jong-han, Director of the Prevention and Safety Policy Division at the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, said, "This fall, many people are expected to hike alone due to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), so it is advisable to inform family or those nearby of your destination and carry extra phone batteries." He added, "Also, please follow quarantine rules carefully, such as avoiding group movements or hikes whenever possible."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.