Cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers set the scene as the Jeju International Marathon kicks off next month

▲ The "Jeju MBC International Peace Marathon" will be held on March 30. (Photo / Provided by the Jeju Tourism Promotion Office in Taiwan)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

The annual "Jeju MBC International Peace Marathon" will take place on March 30. Held every year during the peak blooming season of rapeseed flowers and cherry blossoms, runners pass through picturesque flower fields, creating a stunning sight. Originally established as a health run to commemorate the tragic "Jeju 4.3 Incident" that occurred on the island from 1947 to 1951, this event has now reached its 11th edition.

The marathon course is certified by the Korean Athletics Federation. Race categories include: full marathon (42 km), half marathon (21 km), 10 km, 5 km fun run, as well as team events for the full and half marathons. This year, the event is expected to attract over 5,000 participants.

This year’s race will start at 09:00 AM on March 30 at the Hanlim Sports Complex. The route passes through Hanlim Sports Complex, Ongpo, Jiaje Beach, Geumneung, Sinchang, coastal roads, and Jaegwido Island (the turnaround point). The course has been highly praised by former marathon runner and Olympic athlete Lee Bong-ju as one of the best marathon routes in South Korea. Runners will enjoy the scenic coastal road near Sinchang Wind Farm with minimal vehicle traffic, while also passing by the Yeongnyeong-ri Cactus Village, designated as a Natural Monument. As they jog through the village lanes of Ongpo, participants can experience Jeju’s warm local culture. At the turnaround point of the full marathon, they’ll catch a glimpse of Jeju’s largest uninhabited island—Jaegwido. With the race taking place during the island’s vibrant cherry blossom and rapeseed flower seasons, runners can enjoy not only the bright spring weather but also the blossoms and ocean views along the way, making it a truly memorable spring marathon experience.

▲ The scenery along the course is absolutely captivating. (Photo / Provided by the Jeju Tourism Promotion Office in Taiwan)

The event offers shuttle buses between Jeju City, Seogwipo City, and the event venue. Participants are also covered by insurance with a maximum coverage of 50 million KRW. Except for the 5 km fun run, all other categories allow participants to record their performance using a timing chip.

Participants will receive commemorative gifts, including a finisher’s medal, a T-shirt from a well-known brand, and a completion certificate. Top prizes include medals and gift vouchers worth up to 500,000 KRW. Those who register through a designated travel agency before March 10 can participate for free (normally 30,000 KRW). For more details on the itinerary and registration, contact the Jeju Tourism Promotion Office in Taiwan at (02)2752-6219.



▲ Register through a designated travel agency before March 10 to enjoy free entry to the marathon. (Photo / Provided by the Jeju Tourism Promotion Office in Taiwan)