The 23rd Cheorwon DMZ International Peace Marathon

The 23rd Cheorwon DMZ International Peace Marathon is a historic sporting event held in Cheorwon-gun, Gangwon-do, offering a unique opportunity to run near the DMZ in the spirit of peace. The race is scheduled to start at 9:00 AM on Saturday, September 5, 2026, and all participants are expected to gather by 8:00 AM at Goseokjeong, a famous scenic landmark in Cheorwon. Located at 1825 Taebong-ro, Dongsong-eup, Goseokjeong provides a breathtaking natural backdrop for the start of this prestigious marathon.

The event features various courses, including DMZFull, DMZHalf, 10Km races, and the Cosmos 10-ri Road Walk for families and casual participants. Running along the DMZ region provides a one-of-a-kind experience, blending a unique sense of historical significance with the pristine natural beauty of Cheorwon. Strict time limits apply to each competitive category: 5 hours for the Full course, 3 hours for the Half course, and 1 hour 30 minutes for the 10km course. The walking event does not provide timing chips, allowing participants to enjoy the scenery without the pressure of competition.

One of the main highlights of the marathon is the generous package of benefits provided to participants. Every runner will receive 3kg of high-quality Cheorwon Odae Rice as an official souvenir, along with a bib and a finisher's medal. Additionally, to support the local economy, a 6,000 KRW Cheorwon Love Gift Certificate is provided, which can be used at local shops and restaurants. Groups of 30 or more participants will also be provided with a dedicated team tent, making it an ideal event for running clubs and corporate groups.

Jointly hosted by Cheorwon-gun and the Hankook Ilbo and organized by the Cheorwon-gun Sports Council, the event is supported by major institutions like the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. While the race is open to anyone in good health, elite athletes registered with the Korea Association of Athletics Federations between 2024 and 2026 are excluded from official awards. Safety is a top priority, with the cooperation of local police and fire departments to ensure a secure environment, and all participants are encouraged to review the safety guidelines and regulations before the race day.