Seoul Opens Free ‘Runner’s Base’ Fitness Spaces in Subway Stations: A New Urban Wellness Movement
- FLip Korea
- Nov 3
- 2 min read
With an estimated 10 million people regularly running in South Korea, Seoul is officially embracing the urban running lifestyle. The Seoul Metropolitan Government has launched “Runner’s Base” fitness spaces inside three major subway stations:
Gwanghwamun Station (광화문역), Line 5
Hoehyeon Station (회현역), Line 4
World Cup Stadium Station (월드컵경기장역), Line 6
This initiative repurposes previously unused areas within subway stations into free, accessible fitness zones equipped for runners and commuters.
What is Runner’s Base?
Runner’s Base is a public fitness support space featuring:
Facility | Description |
Changing Rooms (탈의실) | Clean, secure spaces to change into athletic wear |
Personal Lockers (개인 사물함) | Reserve & open via smartphone using the "T-Locker" app |
Powder Rooms (파우더룸) | Equipped vanity spaces for freshening up post-run |
Workout Item Vending Machines | Stocked based on runner feedback |
Items Available in Vending Machines
The vending machines provide affordable workout essentials like:
Socks
Headbands
Knee support bands
Wet wipes
Pain relief patches
Massage oil
This ensures runners can run spontaneously, even if they didn’t plan ahead.
Seoul’s Urban Running Vision
According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government:
“The goal is to foster everyday wellness by making running more accessible in the heart of the city.”
These spaces are strategically located near popular urban running routes, including:
Hangang river paths
Seoul city historical trails
Park and stadium running loops
How to Use Runner's Base (It’s Free!)
Step | Details |
1. Access the Facility | Authenticate via Naver or KakaoTalk QR |
2. Reserve Lockers | Download T-Locker (티락커) app |
3. Control Lockers | Open & lock directly from your smartphone |
No membership required
No usage fees
Station Location Summary
Station | Line | Korean Name |
Gwanghwamun | Line 5 | 광화문역 |
Hoehyeon | Line 4 | 회현역 |
World Cup Stadium | Line 6 | 월드컵경기장역 |
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