As the autumn foliage season approaches, the number of hikers is increasing, raising the risk of mountain accidents. The Gwangju Fire Department has urged hikers to avoid strenuous activities and to descend before sunset, especially as October is a month with a high concentration of mountain rescue calls.
According to the Gwangju Fire Department's Jeonnam Regional Headquarters, there were 56 mountain rescue calls in September, a 60% increase from 35 calls in the same month last year.
Annual mountain rescue calls have been on a downward trend, decreasing from 713 in 2023 to 594 in 2024, and further down to 451 in 2025.
However, the cumulative number of calls from January to September this year stands at 351, which is eight fewer than the 359 calls during the same period last year. The significant increase in September calls has raised concerns about safety management during the autumn hiking season.
October has been identified as a particularly risky month for mountain accidents. Over the past three years, there have been a total of 192 mountain rescue calls in October, the highest of any month, averaging 64 calls per year.
The Jeonnam Regional Headquarters attributes the rise in September calls to an increase in hikers as the late summer heat subsides and autumn begins.
They advise hikers to check weather conditions and their own health status before heading out, and to prepare for significant temperature changes in mountainous areas.
As daylight hours shorten in the fall, hikers should plan their trips accordingly to ensure they descend before sunset and avoid overexerting themselves.
Choi Min-cheol, head of the Jeonnam Regional Headquarters of the Gwangju Fire Department, stated, “Given the significant increase in mountain accidents in September compared to the same month last year, special caution is needed during autumn hikes. Be mindful of cardiovascular risks due to temperature fluctuations, descend before sunset, and refrain from strenuous hiking beyond your physical limits.”
Additionally, the Gwangju Fire Department has urged hikers to check weather information and hiking routes before embarking on their trips, and to adhere to basic safety guidelines, especially since October has historically seen the highest number of mountain rescue calls.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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