BUSAN – Busan, the mesmerizing coastal city renowned for its harmonious fusion of urban vibrancy and untouched nature, recently brought the spotlight to its iconic Galmaetgil trails through the ‘Walking Together’ events. Spanning 9 distinct routes and 23 sections, and covering an impressive 278.8 kilometers, the event unfolded from September 15th to November 30th.
However, the marquee event, ‘Walking Together on Galmaetgil,’ reached its capacity far sooner than anticipated. As a consequence, many enthusiasts, including local residents and a significant influx of international tourists, were unable to partake in the festivities. Reflecting on the event’s overwhelming response, there’s a shared sentiment that a more inclusive framework, especially designed for Busan’s international visitors, would have further elevated the experience.
With Galmaetgil’s growing appeal and the steady increase of international visitors to Busan, there’s a compelling case for the city to introduce guided tour programs tailored for foreign audiences. Such endeavors can not only broaden the trails’ global reach but also offer a comprehensive and memorable experience, transcending potential cultural or language barriers.
Established by Busan in 2009 under the designation ‘Greenway,’ the Galmaetgil trails embody the city’s commitment to promoting health and sustainable tourism. Their popularity has soared recently, receiving recognition from the Korea Tourism Organization, which ranked Galmaetgil second only to Jeju’s famed Olle Trails. A 2022 survey highlighted their prominence further, indicating a whopping 92.7% awareness among Busan’s residents, complemented by high satisfaction ratings.
For an in-depth exploration of these enchanting trails, global enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the official Busan Galmaetgil website.
In conclusion, a representative from Busan reiterated, “The Galmaetgil trails are among Busan’s crown jewels. As we recognize their growing international allure, we’re dedicated to introducing more expansive initiatives, aspiring to solidify Busan’s Galmaetgil as a leading trekking hotspot on the world map.”
