According to the Korea Forest Service, 73 percent of adults said they hike or walk forest trails at least once a month, making such activities one of the country’s most popular leisure pursuits. Solo hiking — known locally as “hon-san” — has become increasingly common, with 36 percent of hikers and 28 percent of forest trail users saying they typically go alone. Health was cited as the leading motivation for hiking and forest walks, followed by enjoyment of walking itself and appreciation of scenery and atmosphere. When asked what they hoped to see in future forest trail development, the most common requests were safer routes and easier, less physically demanding courses. Kim In-ho, head of the Korea Forest Service, said the findings would guide future policies aimed at improving safety, expanding infrastructure and promoting responsible forest-use culture.