Busan, South Korea – Busan is set to host the second event of the Seven Beach Earthing Challenge at Gwangalli Beach on June 16 at 6:00 PM. This event, aimed at promoting health and wellness through barefoot walking, is part of the city’s initiative to foster a deeper connection between urban life and nature. The event is jointly organized by the City of Busan, Busan Ilbo, the Busan Metropolitan Council, the Busan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and BNK Financial Group, with the Busan Earthing Movement Headquarters as the main coordinator.
The challenge, known as “earthing” or “grounding,” involves walking barefoot to connect with the Earth’s surface, allowing participants to absorb the Earth’s free electrons. This practice has gained popularity due to its purported health benefits, widely promoted through various media and social networks.
The Gwangalli Beach event will kick off with a busking performance, followed by a warm-up stretching session. Participants will then proceed with the earthing walk, concluding the evening with a raffle draw. The event expects to attract approximately 4,000 participants.
The walk will be conducted in groups of 500, divided into eight separate cohorts. Each group will begin at the designated starting point near the outdoor stage in Gwangalli Beach Park, guided by a leader carrying a flag. They will walk toward Namcheon Samik Beach Apartments and return, covering a round-trip distance of 2 kilometers. Groups will start at five-minute intervals to ensure smooth flow and manageability.
Interested participants must register in advance on the official Seven Beach Earthing Challenge website (earthing.busan.com). Participation is free, and all registrants will receive complimentary items, including a shoe bag for new attendees, bottled water, and a badge.
Following the Gwangalli event, the challenge will continue at Dadaepo Beach in September and Songjeong Beach in November, with plans to cover all seven major beaches in Busan by 2025.
Participants are advised to take the following precautions while engaging in barefoot walking:
- Check the Ground: Ensure the path is free of sharp objects such as glass, rocks, or debris that could cause injuries.
- Gradual Adjustment: If you are new to barefoot walking, start slowly to allow your feet to adapt to different surfaces and avoid discomfort or injury.
- Foot Hygiene: Keep your feet clean before and after the event to prevent infections. Bring wipes or a small towel to clean your feet as needed.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water to stay hydrated, especially if the weather is hot.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any signs of discomfort or pain and take breaks if necessary. It’s important to walk at your own pace.
