The streets of Seoul transformed into a vibrant festival of athleticism and community spirit on March 15, 2026, as the 96th edition of the Seoul Marathon unfolded. With a storied history dating back to 1931, this legendary race—Asia’s oldest and the world’s second-longest running marathon—once again drew elite athletes and citizen runners from across the globe to the heart of South Korea’s capital. The event, recognized for its prestige by holding the World Athletics Platinum Label for an unprecedented seven consecutive years, was nothing short of a spectacle this year, gathering approximately 40,000 runners, including 173 elite athletes representing nine nations.
From the crack of dawn, anticipation buzzed through Gwanghwamun Square, the iconic starting line for the full marathon. Runners prepared to tackle the grueling 42.195-kilometer course, which wound its way through the city’s historic and modern landmarks: Jongno’s bustling avenues, the tranquil Cheonggyecheon stream, the vibrant neighborhoods of Dongdaemun and Gunja, the family-friendly expanse of Children’s Grand Park, the urban greenery of Seoul Forest, and the sweeping span of Jamsil Bridge. The finish awaited at the sprawling Jamsil Sports Complex, a fitting end to a journey that showcased Seoul’s diverse urban landscape.
This year’s event was meticulously organized to accommodate not only the full marathon but also a popular 10-kilometer race, which started and finished at Jamsil Sports Complex. The shorter course took runners along Songpa-daero, turning back at the Garak Market Station intersection before retracing their steps to the finish. With 20,000 participants in each distance, the city’s roads pulsed with determination and camaraderie.
The logistical challenge of hosting such a massive event was met with careful planning and robust support from city authorities. According to the Seoul Marathon Organizing Committee and Seoul Metropolitan Police, major roads along the marathon route were subject to phased traffic controls from as early as 5:00 AM, stretching into the early afternoon. Sejong-daero, the bustling thoroughfare at the heart of the city, was closed from 5:00 to 8:08 AM, while the central corridors of Jongno, Euljiro, and Cheonggyecheon-ro saw restrictions from 7:20 to 10:41 AM. Further east, Cheonho-daero, Neungdong-ro, and Ttukseom-ro were controlled between 8:39 AM and 12:22 PM, and the final stretches, including Jamsil Bridge and Olympic-ro, remained closed until 2:30 PM. The 10-kilometer course operated under its own window of restrictions, from 9:20 AM to 12:30 PM.
To minimize inconvenience for Seoul’s citizens, the city deployed a staggering 5,514 traffic police officers and support staff. Banners, signs, and guidance boards—numbering over 900—were strategically placed to inform and direct both runners and the public. Bus routes within the restricted zones were adjusted, and citizens were strongly encouraged to use the subway system or follow police signals for detours. “We urge all citizens traveling near the marathon course to use the subway and for drivers to check traffic control times and routes in advance to avoid inconvenience,” a Seoul Police Agency spokesperson advised.
This year’s Seoul Marathon wasn’t just about racing—it was a full-fledged citywide celebration. The 2026 Seoul Running Expo, held in conjunction with the marathon, became a hub for participants and spectators alike. A major highlight was the Cass Light Finish Lounge, a sprawling brand experience zone created by official sponsor Cass Light, a leading OB Beer brand. The lounge was designed to amplify the sense of achievement for finishers, blending the themes of party, certification, and recovery into an immersive post-race experience.
From the moment runners crossed the finish line, the Cass Light Finish Lounge beckoned with a festive after-party atmosphere. Professional DJs kept the energy high, while runners and their supporters mingled, danced, and celebrated their hard-earned victories. For those eager to immortalize their accomplishments, the lounge offered race record certification posters and a record-linked photo zone, capturing triumphant moments against the backdrop of the marathon’s storied legacy. Creative spirits could craft their own cheering items, while the recovery zone provided much-needed stretching programs to help tired muscles bounce back.
Refreshment was never far away, as Cass Light and Cass 0.0 tasting events introduced runners to the brand’s signature zero-sugar, low-calorie brews—perfectly aligned with the growing ‘healthy pleasure’ lifestyle trend. “Cass Light is committed to creating a celebratory atmosphere for runners finishing the marathon and delivering a light ending experience in daily life,” said Cass Light marketing VP Seo Hye-yeon. The brand’s focus on fun and enjoyment over fierce competition resonated with the burgeoning ‘fun run’ movement, emphasizing the simple joy of running. Earlier in the year, Cass Light had also sponsored other major running events, including the 2026 Insider Run W and the 2026 Goyang Special City Half Marathon, expanding its reach to health-conscious and lifestyle-oriented consumers.
Souvenirs for marathoners were another big draw, with this year’s package featuring Adizero Adios Pro 4 running shoes, Adidas singlets or short-sleeve T-shirts, AminoVital foil blankets, and comprehensive guidebooks. While the exact prize money for elite finishers remained undisclosed, the real reward for most participants was the sense of accomplishment and the shared euphoria of race day.
Behind the scenes, the marathon’s reputation as a world-class event was further cemented by its continued recognition from the World Athletics governing body. For the seventh consecutive year, the Seoul Marathon maintained its Platinum Label status—the only event in Korea to do so. This distinction attracted some of the globe’s best distance runners, ensuring the elite competition remained fierce and the race’s international profile continued to rise.
As the day progressed, the city’s residents and visitors alike lined the streets to cheer on the runners, their encouragement echoing through neighborhoods both old and new. The marathon’s inclusive spirit was palpable, with elite athletes, amateur enthusiasts, and families all sharing the same roads, the same dreams, and the same finish line.
With the 2026 Seoul Marathon still underway at press time, the excitement in the city is undeniable. Runners continue to push toward Jamsil Sports Complex, buoyed by the cheers of spectators and the promise of a well-earned celebration at the finish. Whether chasing personal bests or simply savoring the thrill of participation, every runner is contributing to a tradition that has defined Seoul’s sporting calendar for nearly a century. As the final miles unfold, Seoul once again proves itself a true capital of endurance, unity, and festive spirit.