Running Crews: From Fun to Nuisance? Local Governments Introduce Restrictions on Group Size

In recent years, 'running crews' have gained popularity, particularly among the 20-30 age group. This activity, where groups run through urban areas, has become increasingly popular, offering both health benefits and a sense of belonging. However, with this rise in popularity, instances of inconsiderate behavior have increased, leading local governments to step in with restrictions. Rules limiting group runs exceeding a certain number of people in parks and athletic fields are being implemented in some areas.

Banpo Sports Complex in Seocho-gu Imposes Limits on Group Runs

Starting October 1st, Seocho-gu in Seoul implemented a rule restricting group runs of 5 or more people within the Banpo Sports Complex. A Seocho-gu official urged, "Running crews or clubs with 10 or more members should be divided into smaller groups (e.g., 4, 3, and 3 people), and maintain a distance of at least 2 meters between runners on the track."

The Banpo Sports Complex boasts five 400m tracks, making it an ideal location for running. This has made it popular with running crews for a long time, but recently, complaints have increased to the point of requiring a limit on the number of participants. The inconsiderate actions of some running crews have caused inconvenience to residents and other users of the sports complex.

Other Areas Also Show Movement to Restrict Running Crews

Seocho-gu is not alone in taking action to restrict running crews. Songpa-gu in Seoul has put up banners along the Seokchon Lake promenade requesting that groups of '3 or more runners refrain from running,' while Seongbuk-gu has installed banners guiding runners to 'walk on the right and run single file.' Hwaseong City in Gyeonggi-do has also issued a recommendation to refrain from entering the Dongtan Lake Park promenade for running crews.

These measures are intended to alleviate the inconvenience experienced by other citizens using public spaces. The concentration of large numbers of people in narrow walkways such as promenades and parks has led to frequent disruptions, and some running crews have faced criticism for obstructing walkways while taking photos.

Problems Arising from the Popularity of Running Crews

Running crews have evolved from simple exercise clubs into a unique culture shaped by the MZ generation. They gather at designated times to run through urban areas, enjoying both health benefits and camaraderie. The number of participants in the '7979 Seoul Running Crew' organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government has more than doubled, increasing from 329 last year to 898 this year.

However, this increase in participation has also led to a rise in controversies surrounding inconsiderate behavior. The large number of runners using narrow promenades and parks simultaneously has caused significant inconvenience to other citizens. Complaints such as, "It's difficult to walk on the sidewalk because of running crews," and, "They use public spaces as their own gym," are constantly being raised on online communities.

Responses from Local Governments

Local governments are developing regulatory measures to address the problems caused by running crews. Similar to Seocho-gu's Banpo Sports Complex, they are either limiting the number of people running in groups in parks and athletic fields, or issuing recommendations to refrain from running altogether. While some express discomfort with these regulations, they are generally accepted as necessary measures to protect the rights and safety of other citizens.

Seokchon Lake in Songpa-gu is one of the most popular promenades in Seoul, attracting countless visitors on weekends. If 10 or more running crew members gather here, the likelihood of collisions with pedestrians increases. To prevent this, Songpa-gu is requesting cooperation from citizens by displaying banners that read, "Refrain from running in groups of 3 or more". Seongbuk-gu is also working to maintain order on the promenade by recommending "Run single file".

The Future Direction of Running Crews

Running crews have become established as a cultural phenomenon, propelled by various media appearances, moving beyond simply being exercise groups. However, with increased popularity, controversies surrounding inconsiderate behavior are unavoidable. For running crews to avoid further criticism, adhering to public space etiquette is crucial.

Local governments also need to develop reasonable regulations and alternatives to prevent running crews from causing harm to others, rather than simply resorting to restrictions. Simultaneously, running crews should proactively follow regulations and seek ways to coexist with other citizens.

Ultimately, public spaces belong to everyone, and respectful use is essential. Running crews, too, need to adopt a more mature attitude to establish themselves as a healthy and positive cultural phenomenon.