Update: The edition described in this guide took place on February 21, 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.
Welcome to the ultimate guide for the 2026 Youth Relay Marathon (청춘 릴레이 마라톤)!
This event is not just a race; it is a celebration of resilience, connection, and the vibrant spirit of “Youth” that lives within everyone, regardless of age.
Whether you are a seasoned marathoner or a beginner looking for your first 5K, this event at the iconic Sangam World Cup Park offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience. Below is
everything you need to know to prepare for race day on February 21, 2026.
🌟 About the 2026 Youth Relay Marathon
The Youth Relay Marathon is built on the philosophy that “Youth” is a state of mind. Unlike elite races focused solely on breaking records, this event emphasizes the “Relay” aspect of life—passing the baton of courage and support to one another. It is a day to honor the hard work you’ve put into your life and share that energy with fellow runners.
Date & Time: February 21, 2026 (Saturday) | Race starts at 09:00 AM
Location: Peace Square (Pyeonghwa Gwangjang), Sangam World Cup Park, Seoul
Eligibility: Anyone in good health (Open to all ages and nationalities)
Do you need help with registration?
Do you need help with registration?Sports Event Korea can help overseas runners register for Korean races. Send a registration request
📋 Event Overview & Registration
The race is designed to be inclusive, offering three different distances to suit various fitness levels.
🏁 Race Categories & Entry Fees
All participants across all categories will receive official time measurement via timing chips.
| Category | Distance | Entry Fee |
| Half Marathon | 21.0975 km | 60,000 KRW |
| 10K Run | 10 km | 60,000 KRW |
| 5K Run | 5 km | 60,000 KRW |
✍️ How to Register
Official Website: Visit youngrun.kr
Deadline: Applications are accepted until February 8, 2026.
Payment: Transfer the entry fee to the official account (Hana Bank: (see official site for current account details), Han-gang Project).
🗺️ Course Analysis & Difficulty
The Sangam World Cup Park course is famous among Seoul runners for its scenic beauty and relatively flat terrain.
Course Profile: 🟢 Easy to Moderate. The path circles through the Peace Park and along the Han River tributaries. Most of the course consists of paved park paths with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for setting a Personal Best (PB).
Key Highlights: You will pass by the “Sky Park” (Haneul Park) slopes and run alongside the serene Metasequoia Road.
Difficulty Rating: 2/5. The main challenge in February is the cold wind coming off the river. Layering your clothes is essential.
📊 Historical Data & Finish Records
Since its inception, the Youth Relay Marathon has grown from a local running club meet to a major city event.
History: Organized by the Korea Multicultural General Federation, the race has historically promoted social integration and healthy lifestyles among the youth and international residents in Seoul.
Expected Finish Times:
Half Marathon: Top finishers typically clock in around 1h 15m. The average “recreational” runner finishes in about 2h 05m.
10K: A very competitive category where the “sub-50” (under 50 mins) group makes up about 30% of the pack.
Participant Demographics: In 2025, approximately 45% of participants were in their 20s and 30s, but the 40+ category showed the highest growth rate.
🎁 Souvenirs & Rewards
Every participant is a winner! The organizers provide a high-value package to ensure you remember the day.
Official T-shirt: Premium functional running gear.
Finisher Medal: A specially designed medal reflecting the “Relay” theme.
Snack Pack: Post-race refreshments including bread, drinks, and seasonal fruit.
Awards: Total prize pool of 2.1 Million KRW. 1st Place winners in the Half/10K categories often receive trophies and cash prizes (up to 300,000 KRW).
🚆 How to Get to the Venue
Peace Square (평화광장) is highly accessible via public transport. Using a car is discouraged due to heavy traffic on race day.
Subway: Take Line 6 to World Cup Stadium Station. Use Exit 1. It is a 5-10 minute walk to the square.
Bus: Routes 271, 571, 7011, and 7715 stop near the stadium.
Parking: Limited parking is available at the World Cup Park parking lot, but it fills up by 7:30 AM.
- google map link
🍲 Best Restaurants Near Sangam (Post-Race Meals)
After burning hundreds of calories, you deserve a feast! Sangam-dong is a foodie heaven.
Sangam Hoegwan (상암회관): Famous for its rich Kong-guksu (Cold Soy Milk Noodles) and hearty Gomtang. Perfect for recovery.
Ilmi Rak (일미락): High-quality aged pork belly (Samgyeopsal). This is the “go-to” spot for running crews to celebrate.
Okdongsik (옥동식): A Michelin-guide recognized pork Gomtang restaurant. Clean, warm, and revitalizing.
💡 Pro-Tips
Check the Weather: February in Seoul can be cold. Wear “throwaway” layers to stay warm at the starting line.
Hydration: Even in winter, you lose fluids. Drink water at every station (every 2.5km or 5km).
Social Impact: A portion of the proceeds is often donated to multicultural family support programs, making your run a “charity relay.”
Note: Please ensure you check the official website for any last-minute changes to the schedule or course due to local regulations.
Do you need help with registration?
Sports Event Korea can help overseas runners register for Korean races. Send a registration request
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