The 2026 KMA New Year’s Greeting Marathon Guide 🏃‍♂️

Update: The edition described in this guide took place on January 4, 2026, and registration for that edition has closed. This guide stays online as a reference for runners planning ahead. Please check the official website for the latest schedule.

Start your new year with a full marathon challenge at the 2026 KMA New Year’s Greeting Marathon. Set in Geumsan County, the “Ginseng Capital of Korea,” this race offers a unique combination of full, half, 10K, and 5K distances on a scenic, runner-friendly course. This ultimate guide, compliant with SEO standards, details everything you need for a successful race weekend in Geumsan.

📅 Competition Guide & Race Overview (대회안내)

The 2026 KMA New Year’s Greeting Marathon is organized by the respected National Marathon Association (KMA), guaranteeing a professional and well-managed event. Held in the picturesque, rural setting of Geumsan, this event is a favorite for runners seeking a quieter, more focused marathon experience outside of major cities.

❄️ January Race Essentials

While the 9:00 AM start time avoids the pre-dawn cold, January 4th in Geumsan will be chilly. Runners must prioritize thermal base layers and use throwaway gear or a thin outer jacket that can be discarded at the start line. The assembly time is 8:00 AM, meaning runners should arrive prepared to warm up immediately to maintain core temperature before the gun goes off.

🏃‍♀️ Categories, Fees, and Course Potential (코스 & 참가비)

This event is notable for offering all major distances, including the challenging Full Marathon, in a setting conducive to fast times.

🥇 Race Categories & Fees

This KMA event offers a rare chance to run the full distance early in the year, making it an excellent preparation race for the major spring marathons.

Official Website to Registration = > Link

📝 Do you need help with registration?

Sports Event Korea can help overseas runners register for Korean races. Send a registration request

🏞️ Projected Course Analysis (Geumsan Scenery)

The course is set near the Ginseng Expo Park in Geumsan, a region known for its clean air and beautiful riverside landscapes.

• Terrain: The course is highly likely to utilize the Geumgang River (금강) or a major tributary road, offering a flat, scenic, and potentially fast route. Geumsan’s rural roads minimize sharp turns and traffic, favoring runners aiming for a Personal Best (PB).

• Scenery: Runners can expect views of rural Korean landscapes, including rolling hills in the distance and clean river views.

• Strategy: The flat nature of the course requires disciplined pacing. The main challenge will be the low ambient temperature and potential wind exposure near the river. Focus on even splits to maximize the flat advantage.

🎁 Souvenirs, Awards, and Perks (기념품 & 시상내역)

KMA races are known for their quality finisher items and substantial prize categories, providing great value for the entry fee.

🏅 Commemorative Items (기념품)

While exact details are usually released closer to registration, KMA’s history suggests the following high-quality swag:

🏆 Award Categories (시상내역)

The race typically features competitive awards, often including cash prizes and trophies for the overall top finishers (Male/Female) in the Full and Half Marathon categories. Furthermore, many KMA events feature Age Group Awards for the top 3 or 5 runners in various divisions (e.g., 20s, 30s, 40s, etc.), providing motivation for competitive age-groupers.

🚌 Transportation & Travel Logistics (교통)

Geumsan is a county-level region in Chungcheongnam-do and requires intercity travel. Proper planning is vital for a stress-free race morning.

🚗 Intercity Travel & Venue Access

Geumsan does not have a KTX or subway station. Access is primarily by express bus or car.

• Express/Intercity Bus: This is the most practical method if you are not driving. Take an express bus from major cities (Seoul, Daejeon, Busan) directly to the Geumsan Bus Terminal (금산시외버스터미널).

  • Travel Time: Seoul to Geumsan is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

• Connecting from Daejeon: Geumsan is located near Daejeon, the largest city in the Chungcheong region. Many runners choose to stay in Daejeon and take a short local bus or taxi to Geumsan on race morning (approx. 40-60 minutes).

• Venue Shuttle (Highly Recommended): Given the 9:00 AM start, inquire with the KMA or check the final official notice for a potential runner shuttle bus operating from Geumsan Bus Terminal or a designated spot in Daejeon to the Ginseng Expo Park.

🅿️ Parking Information

If driving, the Geumsan Ginseng Expo Parking Lot is the designated assembly area. While large, arriving well before 8:00 AM is essential to secure a spot and avoid the morning rush.

🛌 Accommodation & Local Dining Guide (숙소 및 맛집)

Turning the race into a weekend trip allows runners to enjoy Geumsan’s specialties.

🍴 Geumsan’s Ginseng-Themed Dining

Geumsan is famous as the hub of Korean ginseng, and local cuisine reflects this. Runners looking for a restorative meal should seek out:

1. Samgyetang (삼계탕): Chicken soup with ginseng. This is the ultimate pre- or post-race meal for its protein, heat, and medicinal properties. Look for Geumsan Wonjo Kim Jeongi Samgyetang (금산원조김정이삼계탕) or similar local spots.

2. Local Ginseng Dishes: Many restaurants in Geumsan incorporate local ginseng into various traditional dishes (hanjeongsik) and stews. This is a unique opportunity to boost your immune system and stamina.

3. Traditional Korean Food (Hansik): Restaurants near the Geumsan Traditional Market (금산인삼약령시장) offer comforting post-race meals like Jeogok Sikdang (저곡식당).

🏨 Local Accommodation Options

Accommodation in Geumsan is primarily composed of smaller motels, pensions, and drive-in hotels. Booking in advance is highly recommended as the New Year period can draw domestic tourists.

• Near the Venue: Look for motels and pensions within a 10-15km radius of the Ginseng Expo Park, such as Geumsan Gung Self check-in Motel or Geumsan The Sup Drive-in Hotel. These offer a clean, convenient stay for race night.

• Daejeon City: If you prefer larger chain hotels or city amenities, consider staying in Daejeon (specifically the Yuseong-gu area) and taking the 40-60 minute commute to Geumsan. Hotels like Hotel Interciti in Daejeon are excellent, reliable options.

• Unique Stay: For a rustic experience, check out local pensions or caravan sites like Geumsan Lalaland Caravan or those near the Jangnyeongsan Recreational Forest.

✅ Final Runner’s Checklist

• Gear: Thermal layers, gloves, hat, technical running socks.

• Logistics: Confirm your transportation plan and book accommodation immediately.

• Nutrition: Incorporate local ginseng products into your pre-race fueling strategy for a unique energy boost.

• Enjoy: Embrace the unique rural beauty and quiet atmosphere of Geumsan for a memorable New Year’s race!

This guide ensures you have all the essential information to prepare for and conquer the 2026 KMA New Year’s Greeting Marathon.

📝 Do you need help with registration?

Sports Event Korea can help overseas runners register for Korean races. Send a registration request

🏁 More Races to Explore

Planning a running trip to Korea? These guides may also help:

• The 75th Short Marathon
• Yeouido Cherry Blossom Marathon
• The 4th Korea Open Race 2026