About This Race
The TransJeju by UTMB 60K crosses the volcanic landscapes of South Korea's largest island, tracing routes through Hallasan National Park's ancient lava fields and coastal forests. As part of the UTMB World Series, this distance attracts runners seeking a substantial challenge in one of East Asia's most distinctive trail environments. The race operates within Jeju's UNESCO World Heritage site, where subtropical vegetation meets alpine terrain across the island's dramatic topography. The course moves through multiple climate zones as it navigates Hallasan's slopes, requiring runners to manage transitions between dense forest sections, exposed volcanic ridges, and traditional oreum (parasitic cone) formations unique to Jeju. The mixed terrain demands versatility in pacing and technical footwork. Runners encounter the geological diversity that has shaped Jeju's identity as a volcanic island, from basalt rock gardens to cedar forests that filter the island's persistent humidity. Held in early October, the race benefits from Jeju's autumn conditions when typhoon season typically wanes and temperatures moderate. The 60K distance sits between the more accessible shorter formats and TransJeju's multi-day ultra offerings, making it suitable for runners extending beyond marathon distance or preparing for longer UTMB World Series events. International participation has grown as Jeju's trail infrastructure and the UTMB partnership have raised the race's profile within Asian and global trail running communities.
The route explores Hallasan's volcanic terrain through a combination of established national park trails and paths that wind between the island's numerous oreum formations. Runners navigate through sections of subtropical forest before emerging onto more exposed volcanic landscape, with the course design emphasizing Jeju's geological character. The mixed terrain includes both runnable stretches and technical sections over volcanic rock, requiring attention to footing throughout.
The course takes advantage of Jeju's compact geography while showcasing the environmental diversity that earned the island its UNESCO recognition. Trail surfaces vary from packed earth to volcanic stone, with some sections following traditional paths used by Jeju residents for centuries. The routing through multiple elevation zones means runners experience different microclimates and vegetation patterns within the same race.
Location
Practical Info
Early October typically brings mild temperatures (15-22°C) with moderate humidity as summer heat dissipates, though Jeju's island climate can produce sudden weather changes and occasional rainfall.
CJU - Jeju International Airport
Jeju City offers extensive lodging from international hotels to traditional guesthouses, with most accommodation within 30-40 minutes of race venues. Many runners stay in the Jeju City area for easier access to the airport and race logistics.
Best For
Notable Features
TransJeju represents South Korea's most prominent entry in the UTMB World Series, bringing international trail running standards to one of Asia's most geologically unique islands. The volcanic landscape offers terrain unlike most trail races, with basalt formations and oreum cones creating technical challenges specific to Jeju's environment. The race operates within UNESCO World Heritage boundaries, adding environmental significance to the sporting challenge. Jeju's geographic isolation as an island creates a distinct destination race atmosphere, while the UTMB partnership ensures event organization meets international ultra-running expectations.