[DiaryPoint = Reporter Eom Ju-yong] South Korea’s fall wildfire-prevention period began on Nov. 1 and runs through Dec. 15. To prevent wildfires, access to some mountains and trails may be restricted during this period. If you’re planning a fall foliage hike, check whether your destination is affected before you leave.
To view areas designated by the Korea Forest Service, local governments and the Korea National Park Service, visit the seasonal hiking access information service (hiking.kworks.co.kr). Select “Search open trails and restricted areas,” then enter a mountain name or an address that includes the town or neighborhood in the map’s search box. The map shows areas open to hikers and those under access restrictions.
The map distinguishes between closed trail sections and areas where mountain access is prohibited. The service warns that some official notices may not yet appear on the map, so don’t rely on the results alone to determine whether a hike is permitted. The Korea Forest Service adds information from written notices issued by local governments and regional forest offices. Before hiking, check the relevant agency’s notice as well, and contact the local forest office if you’re unsure.
For hikes in national parks, check the Korea National Park Service’s separate trail-closure notices. The Korea Forest Service’s trail information page also cautions that closure and restriction details may not be updated in real time, and advises hikers to check with the agency responsible for the trail. The seasonal wildfire-prevention period does not mean every mountain is closed; access depends on official notices for each mountain and trail section.
Do not bring items that can start a fire, such as lighters or matches, and do not smoke or cook or camp outside designated areas. Burning trash or agricultural waste near forests is also prohibited because it can lead to wildfires. To report a wildfire, call the Korea Forest Service at 042-481-4119, the fire department at 119 or the police at 112.
If a fire is still small, you may be able to put it out by beating it with a branch or smothering it with a coat or soil. If it spreads, do not try to fight it yourself. Move away from the fire’s path and evacuate to lower ground. If you cannot evacuate, the Korea Forest Service advises turning your back to the wind, clearing nearby leaves and branches, and lying face down close to the ground. The wildfire-prevention period continues through Dec. 15. Check local notices and conditions on the ground for the latest restrictions.