Introduction: Why Korea is a Cyclist’s Hidden Gem
Korea’s compact size, cutting-edge infrastructure, and stunning natural diversity make it ideal for bicycle adventures. From urban riverside trails to coastal highways and mountain passes, you’ll discover temples, rice paddies, and futuristic cities—all while enjoying the world’s most extensive dedicated bike path network (over 3,700 km!).
🚲 Pre-Trip Essentials
- Bike Options:
- Rent: Use Seoul’s “Bike Nara” system (₩3,000/day) or specialized shops like Bike Korea (Jeju). Hybrid bikes (~₩20,000/day) recommended.
- Bring: Airlines accept bikes as luggage (check size/weight fees).
- Navigation:
- Apps: Naver Map (English-friendly cycling routes), Ride with Korea (offline trail maps).
- Signage: Follow numbered blue-green signs for cross-country paths like the Four Rivers Trail.
- Gear:
- Lightweight rain jacket (monsoon season: June–Aug), portable WiFi egg (rent at airports), and a Korea Tour Card (public transport + bike rentals).
🌟 Top 3 Iconic Routes
- Han River Ride (Seoul):
- Distance: 80 km round-trip (Gangnam to Gimpo).
- Highlights: Night views of Namsan Tower, Banpo Bridge rainbow fountain, riverside BBQ pits (try samgyeopsal!).
- East Coast Trail (Pohang–Sokcho):
- Distance: 300 km (allow 5–7 days).
- Rewards: Sunrise at Homigot (Hand of Harmony), seafood markets in Mukho, and surf breaks at Gyeongpo Beach.
- Jeju Olle Trail Loop:
- Distance: 200 km coastal circuit (4–5 days).
- Magic: Volcanic cones (oreums), tangerine farms, and Haenyeo (female divers) villages.
🍜 Fuel Your Ride: Food Stops You Can’t Miss
- Rest Stops (Jumak): Refuel with kimchi bokkeumbap (kimchi fried rice) and pajeon (seafood pancakes).
- Convenience Stores: Grab banana milk (iconic!) and onigiri (rice triangles) at CU/GS25.
- Must-Try: Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) in Namwon on the Namhae route.
⚠️ Local Wisdom: Safety & Etiquette
- Traffic Rules: Bike lanes are mandatory in cities. Helmets required on roads (fines apply).
- Weather Watch: Avoid extreme heat/humidity in August. Spring (April–May) and autumn (Sept–Oct) are ideal.
- Temple Stays: Book overnight temple experiences via VisitKorea website—lock bikes at designated areas.
💡 Pro Tips for Foreign Cyclists
- Accommodation: Love Motels (~₩50,000/night) offer bike storage. Use Korea B&B Association for homestays.
- Emergencies: Dial 119. Pharmacies (yakguk) stock electrolyte powders.
- Community: Join expat cycling groups like Seoul Bike Party via Meetup.
Final Pedal Strokes: Why You’ll Fall in Love
Korea’s cycling culture blends ancient tradition with hyper-modern convenience. Whether you’re coasting past cherry blossoms in Jinhae or sharing makgeolli (rice wine) with farmers in rural Jeollado, every turn reveals warmth and wonder. Just remember: shout “Jamgganeun!” (“Just a moment!”) when passing pedestrians—it’s the Korean cyclist’s polite anthem.
Ready to roll? Korea’s paths welcome you—no gears unshifted, no tteokbokki uneaten! 🚴♂️🇰🇷