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Korean Running Crew Criticized for Being “Too Intrusive”

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Running crew 1

South Korea’s “Running Crew” culture is rapidly gaining popularity among young people in their 20s and 30s, creating a new trend that combines socializing and sports. According to a report by Korea News Service (KNS), there are different voices in the society as the running activities of such groups frequently occupy public space. On the one hand, some citizens believe that the behavior of these running groups is a nuisance to the public; on the other hand, there are also many who believe that using the law to restrict such activities seems too harsh.

A new way for young people to socialize

The rise of running crews not only reflects the trend of young people pursuing a healthy life, but also shows a change in socialization needs. Many people build deep friendships and share each other’s life experiences by joining these teams. The atmosphere of group training gives people a sense of collective power and motivates each member to surpass themselves. In such an environment, running is no longer a solitary activity, but becomes a shared experience, which is one of the reasons why this culture is spreading so quickly.

According to an analysis by The Korea Daily, the popularity of running has increased significantly in Korea since the Shin-Kwan outbreak. In September of this year alone, the number of running and walking-themed gatherings on the social media platform “Band” has increased by 90 percent compared to September 2021, and the number of running and walking-themed gatherings on the social media platform “Band” has increased by 90 percent compared to September 2021, according to an analysis by the Korea Daily. As many as 2,653 regional groups can be found by searching for the word “running” on the platform, showing the wide spread of this culture.

Public complaints and government measures

However, along with the increase in running crews, many citizens who utilize public spaces for exercise have begun to feel inconvenienced. Korea’s Chosun Ilbo pointed out that large-scale activities by running crews in the downtown area of Seoul, especially in popular locations such as Gwanghwamun, Itaewon and Han River Park, have sparked many complaints. Race events organized by certain running clubs have even been opposed by a large number of citizens. A 45-year-old office worker said that when he runs twice a week in Han River Park, he often encounters a large number of running crews, who not only occupy the sidewalks, but also shout “get out of the way” and “get out of the way”, which makes him feel very unhappy.

Running crew 2

In response to the increasing number of complaints from the public, Seoul’s local government has begun to take action. Seocho-gu has banned running crews of five or more people from the Panpo Complex Stadium under its management since the first of this month. Meanwhile, Songpa-gu and Seongdong-gu have hung banners saying “Please refrain from running in groups” in some areas. A source in Seocho-gu said, “Although warning signs have been posted and staff members are on hand to guide them, runners have not been able to comply with the rules well.” Nonetheless, reports indicate that several small groups of seven or eight people could still be seen training on the track at the Banpo Sports Complex on October 2, making it clear that the new rules are not being enforced well.

Most local citizens welcomed these new regulations. Some members of the public pointed out that with the surge in the number of runners, the risk of accidents is also increasing. One runner, Zhao, said, “I often see groups of people in the morning and evening, and it is really easy for them to trip and fall and other accidents when they are crowded together, so the safety risks should not be underestimated.”

Nonetheless, there are runners who disagree. Some have spoken out on community forums, arguing that there are few places other than sports fields where running crews can train in groups, and that the local government’s intervention seems too strict.

Self-reflection by running crews

In response to these controversies, some running crews have begun to develop their own codes. For example, a running club in Changwon City, Gyeongsangnam Province, has established eight rules, including “no loud noises,” and posted information on its official account. A running club in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, has established rules such as “no sudden stops during running” and “no taking off of shirts during exercise,” which are explained in detail before each training session. These initiatives not only help to improve the team’s civilization, but also set a good example for other running crews.

As a whole, the Korean culture of “running crews”, while promoting healthy lifestyles and social interactions, also faces the challenge of finding a balance in public space. This phenomenon deserves our in-depth exploration and reflection in order to find the optimal solution for the harmonious coexistence of sports and public life.

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