Hiking accidents in South Korea peak in October, as fall foliage draws crowds of people to mountain trails, according to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.

The country recorded 28,624 hiking accidents from 2022 to 2024, including 3,542 in October, which also saw the highest number of casualties at 2,364, the ministry said Wednesday.

Slips and falls accounted for 29 percent of accidents, followed by hikers getting lost or stranded at 25 percent and medical conditions at 16 percent.

With fall foliage expected to peak nationwide in late October, the ministry urged hikers to choose trails suited to their fitness levels, check weather forecasts and avoid restricted areas.

It also advised hikers to travel in groups, carry warm clothing and complete their hikes before sunset.


don@heraldcorp.com