Running through the summer heat: S. Korea's nighttime fitness craze

While most are staying indoors to beat the heat, some are sprinting right into it.

And they're not doing it alone.

Our Park Hyo-been has the story.

It's 7 PM on a humid summer evening, but the heat hasn't stopped these runners.

People stretch, chat, and tie their shoelaces, getting ready for their weekly run.

"I really feel like I've become healthier through running. Even when it's tough in the summer, I think of it as a 'double XP event' so I push myself even harder."

"When I run with the crew, I get more energy from the people around me. I end up running further than I could on my own, and I enjoy it more too."

They are the Seoul Running Crew, a free community running program held at three locations across Seoul.

Every Thursday evening, runners meet up and split into beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.

"Right now, I'm running with the crew here at Yeouido Park. Even though the sun's nearly gone down, the heat is intense and so is the energy."

Led by professional coaches, including former national athletes, participants are guided safely based on their pace and fitness levels.

Since this season kicked off in April, all 60 spots at each location have been fully booked every single week.

To support this growing fitness trend, the city has even revamped its infrastructure.

Take Yeouinaru Station, right in the heart of Seoul's business district.

It now features a "Runner Station," a dedicated facility for joggers equipped with lockers and changing rooms, so office workers can head straight out for a run after work.

The station also offers live weather updates, UV levels, and wind speed, so runners can check if conditions are safe to run.

There are also check-up sessions for beginner runners, helping them find the right pace range and recommending routes that match their fitness level.

Despite the sweltering heat, more and more people are lacing up their shoes and hitting the asphalt.

For them, summer nights aren't just about beating the heat, they're about building community, pushing limits, and making the city their own.

Park Hyobeen, Arirang News.