Seoul's Gwanak-gu expands mountain hike payback program

Seoul's Gwanak-gu district announced that, beginning in August, the "Gwanaksan three‑times wish challenge" payback event will double its monthly participant cap from 200 to 400 and increase the number of hikers eligible for the completion bonus from 300 to 450. The expansion runs through November and raises the total budget for vouchers to about 11 million won.

Participants must climb to one of four designated photo spots on Gwanaksan, spend at least 10,000 won at a local small‑merchant store, and submit the receipt and a verification photo. Those who complete three climbs receive a Seoul Love voucher worth up to 50,000 won, with a 20,000‑won extra bonus for the third climb. The district uses an AI‑based system to prevent duplicate entries.

District mayor Park Jun-hee said the program aims to provide enjoyment for visitors while boosting sales for neighbourhood merchants, calling it a "win‑win" initiative for the local economy.