In the traditional zodiac, the year of the Red Horse arrives only once in every 60 years and this cycle is associated with motion, independence and fiery energy. To celebrate this year of the Red Horse, South Korea offers tourists a chance to step into a journey shaped by the symbolism of the horse itself.
From Seoul’s mountains and markets to the misty peaks of the provinces and Jeju’s legendary ranchlands, the zodiac animal leaves its imprint on places both familiar and unexpected.
Mount Yongma: A Sunrise Above the Seoul City
On Seoul’s eastern edge, Mount Yongma is one of the most accessible sunrise hikes in the city of Seoul. This place is named after the legendary ‘dragon horse’, the mountain was once linked to royal stables during the Joseon era. Nowadays, hikers climb its gentle trails for views of the Han River and the city skyline.
A recent addition in this place, the ‘Yongma Mountain Skywalk’, offers an elevated wooden path through the forest, linking the summit to Mang-u History & Culture Park. At the mountain’s base, ‘Yong Waterfall Park’ trades waterfalls for winter fun, becoming a snow-play area popular with families.
Majang-dong: From Horse Pastures to Market Stalls
This place was once considered to be the home of state-run horse pastures during the Joseon era, Majang-dong later became the heart of Seoul’s livestock trade. Majang Meat Market is still considered Korea’s largest meat market, known for its transparent pricing, wide selection of cuts and energetic atmosphere.
Though far from polished, the neighbourhood offers an authentic glimpse into Seoul’s working-class life, with bustling alleys and late-night barbecue restaurants.
Pimatgol: The Alley that Avoided Horses
In central Jongno, Pimatgol, which refers to ‘alley to avoid horses’, began as a path where commoners stepped aside from officials on horseback. It evolved into a lively food alley famous for affordable, comforting dishes.
Although much of Pimatgol disappeared during redevelopment, its spirit survives in narrow spaces near Jongno and Gwanghwamun.
Mount Mai: A Horse-Shaped Horizon
Mount Mai in North Jeolla Province is named for its twin peaks that resemble a horse’s ears. The mountain has become a popular New Year’s sunrise destination, with viewpoints where the sun appears framed between the peaks, drawing hikers and photographers each winter.
Jeju Island: Korea’s Island of Horses
Jeju’s open grassland and mid-mountain slopes earned it the name Korea’s ‘island of horses’. Once home to royal ranches, the island now offers horse parks, riding trails and cultural sites that reinterpret its equestrian past.
From short paddock rides to longer treks with Mount Halla in view, Jeju remains the place where the symbolism of the Red Horse feels most at home.
As the year of the Red Horse unfolds, these routes offer more than symbolic connections. These destinations reveal how deeply the image of the horse is woven into Korea’s landscapes and everyday life. From city hills and market streets to distant peaks and island pastures, each journey offers a way to step into the new year with motion, resilience and renewed sense of direction.
Written by: Aanchal Pathak
About the Author-
Hello, I’m Aanchal Pathak, a law student with a deep love for Korean culture. Whether it’s the language, K-pop, K-dramas, or the rich traditions, Korea has a special place in my heart. Writing about it is my way of exploring my passion and sharing the beauty of this culture with others.