Seoul welcomed residents to enjoy a slower and healthier start to their weekends this March through the city’s special “Relaxed Morning” (쉬엄쉬엄 모닝) program, which temporarily opened a major downtown roadway to pedestrians, cyclists and families. Organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, the event allowed citizens to experience the capital’s urban landscape in a safer, more relaxed environment without regular vehicle traffic.
The program took place across three weekend mornings March 14, March 22 and March 29, 2026 between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. During these hours, the section of road connecting Yeouidaero and Mapo Bridge was opened for public activity. Participants used the space in different ways depending on their pace and preferences. Some cycled along the route, others pushed strollers with young children, while many residents walked or ran together with family members and even their pets.
Unlike competitive races or structured fitness programs, the event encouraged participants to move at their own speed. This flexible format made it accessible to a wide range of residents regardless of age or fitness level. Families with children, pet owners and casual walkers were able to enjoy the road comfortably alongside regular runners and cyclists, creating a friendly community atmosphere throughout the mornings.
According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, the initiative aimed to promote healthy lifestyles while also giving citizens a chance to experience major city roads in a new way. Events like “Relaxed Morning” reflect Seoul’s broader efforts to create more pedestrian-friendly urban environments and expand opportunities for residents to enjoy outdoor activities safely within the city.
Although the March sessions have now concluded, the strong public participation across all three weekends highlighted the popularity of community-centered outdoor programs in the capital. For many participants, the event offered a refreshing opportunity to start their mornings with exercise, fresh air and shared energy along one of Seoul’s most recognizable riverside routes.