Explore the Beauty of Miryang: Join the Trekking Adventure with Mountaineer Um Hong-gil

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On the 11th, Miryang City in South Gyeongsang named world-renowned mountaineer—and one of South Korea’s most iconic adventurers—Uhm Hong-gil as its honorary ambassador.

The move is designed to spotlight Miryang’s stunning natural landscape and mountain tourism assets, both domestically and abroad, and to strengthen the city’s brand appeal.

Uhm made history as the first person to summit all 16 Himalayan peaks above 8,000 meters—a milestone that reshaped Korea’s mountaineering legacy.

His relentless drive and fierce determination have inspired the public. He also leads youth mountaineering programs and a range of charitable efforts.

The appointment was tied to the “Yongdusan Arirang Trail Trek” organized by the Jogye Order’s mountaineering club. Going forward, Uhm will lead a variety of promotional efforts that tap into his expertise, from showcasing Miryang’s attractions to promoting mountain tourism.

Miryang Mayor Ahn Byung-gu said, “Uhm Hong-gil represents challenge and achievement and brings hope and courage to people. We expect he will play a key role in promoting Miryang’s natural and mountain tourism assets and in elevating the city’s brand value.”

Uhm, the honorary ambassador, said, “Miryang is a city where nature and culture come together. I will do my best as an ambassador to spread Miryang’s beauty and to work closely with its residents.”

Hitting the Miryang Arirang Trail with mountaineer Uhm Hong-gil

Miryang hosted a large-scale trekking event featuring world-renowned mountaineer Uhm Hong-gil.

The Miryang Yongdusan Arirang Trail Trekking event, organized by the Jogye Order’s mountaineering club, took place successfully on the 12th around Yonggungsa Temple and the Yongdusan Arirang Trail.

Hosted by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and the Central Lay Association, the event drew roughly 1,500 participants, including temple representatives, lay association members from across the country, and local citizens.

Participants started at Yonggungsa Temple and followed a variety of routes connecting Miryang’s attractions, including the Snail Observatory and sections of the Arirang Trail, enjoying the scenery and local cultural sites along the way.

Organizers divided the trek into three routes based on age and fitness levels so anyone could join comfortably.

Beyond the walk itself, the event featured pre-event performances, an opening ceremony, a nationwide temple singing contest, and a finish-line commemorative performance—turning the day into a cultural, religious, and sporting celebration.

A Miryang city official said, “We’re grateful so many people came to Miryang from across the country. We hope this event with Uhm Hong-gil helps more people discover Miryang’s beautiful trails and attractions.”