Many Koreans enjoy hiking or mountain climbing. For them, it is not just a hobby, but a pursuit related to culture. The reasons behind their love for mountains are partly due to the effect on mental discipline and physical training. It is also because of the introduction of the five-day work system and a growing interest in health. But there is also a geographical factor, given that mountainous areas account for approximately 70 percent of the country. It is easy to find mountains close to any residential area. Ranging from collecting water from a mineral spring in the morning to going on a walk in the evening, hiking is part of the daily routine.

The Washington Post recently reported, "Mountains are everywhere, and most can be climbed in a day," in Korea. The reporter continued, "You need only the following prerequisites: a love of nature, multi-course meals packed into Tupperware, several bottles of rice wine and high-end gear." Quoting apparel retailers, the writer said, "Koreans wear, on average, $1,000 worth of garb for a summer hike." The article also focused on their clothing by saying, "High-end gear is so commonplace that Koreans, particularly baby boomers, wear it even when going nowhere near a mountain. It's suitable for traveling and shopping, restaurants and coffee shops."

People head to national parks and hiking trails not only on weekends but also on weekdays. Most of them wear mountain clothes and carry necessary equipment. The shops of outdoor clothing and goods companies line the areas near hiking trails. This is considered one of the unique scenes that can only be seen in Korea.

Backed by such a trend, the outdoor market in Korea has recently showed dramatic growth. The value of the outdoor apparel market in Korea accounted for 1 KRW trillion five years ago. But the figure is predicted to exceed KRW 7 trillion in 2014. Many outdoor apparel companies generated double-digit growth last year. These firms continue to develop mountain clothing made from special, lightweight material with advanced waterproof, windproof, and warming functions and a trendy design. Outdoor clothing is in the spotlight as a new fashion item which people can wear not only for hiking but also for everyday life.

One such firm is Kolon Sport. This company recorded KRW 680 billion worth of sales in Korea last year. Its popularity also grew overseas. Since opening its first store at Yansha Main Store in Beijing in 2006, the number of its stores in China reached 150 last year. Its China sales were KRW 50 billion in 2013, which represents a 150 percent rise.


A Kolon Sport representative said, "Customers show stronger interest and demand for various outdoor activities such as travel, bike riding as well as hiking. We reflect such lifestyles when we introduce products. We also make versatile clothing lines for those who wish to put on outdoor clothes for everyday life."

The outdoor culture in Korea is being extended to other areas such as camping with family members. The number of camp grounds in the country is increasing. People also enjoy auto camping and festivals where visitors can enjoy both performances and camping. Thanks to the growing popularity of camping, the value of the camping market surpassed KRW 500 billion in 2013. As more families go camping, the outdoor market targeting children is also expanding.


People are also showing a stronger interest in more physically challenging leisure activities like bike riding or rock-climbing. Outdoor clothing and goods companies are making greater efforts that reflect the varied interests of their customers and meet demand by offering products with advanced functions and stylish designs.

By Yoon Sojung
Korea.net Staff Writer
arete@korea.kr