One mountain, many accents, and a shared goal: to embrace nature, conquer fears, and discover that at KDI School, every hike is a team effort.

On a bright spring weekend, a group of adventurous students from KDI School laced up their hiking shoes and set off on an unforgettable journey to Daedunsan Mountain, one of Korea’s most iconic and scenic peaks. Organized by the KDI School Hiking Club, the trip brought together students from diverse backgrounds to bond over steep trails, panoramic views, and a shared love for the outdoors.

A Club with a Purpose

According to Patria Reyes (MPP, 2024), representative of the Hiking Club, the group’s mission goes beyond just climbing mountains.

“The main goal of the Hiking Club at KDI School is to build a welcoming and inclusive community where everyone, regardless of experience, can enjoy time in nature,” she explained. “Our hikes are about motivating each other when the trail gets steep, sharing stories and snacks, and creating memories together.”

With safety and logistics as a top priority, the Daedunsan hike was postponed twice due to weather, showing the club’s commitment to careful planning. On the day of the hike, students were rewarded with clear skies and perfect hiking weather, making the experience all the more enjoyable.

Facing the Challenge, Embracing the View

Daedunsan Mountain is famous for its steep trails, suspension bridge, and the iconic sky stairway, a dizzying yet thrilling metal staircase leading to the summit. For Sohel Chakma (MPP, 2024), the experience was both physically challenging and spiritually uplifting:

“The steep hanging stairs before the summit made me feel dizzy for the first time ever,” he admitted. “But when I reached the peak, the view made it all worth it. I felt like I was on top of the world.”

Rhoda Lyn Ramos (MDP, 2025) echoed the sentiment, highlighting the trail’s beauty and the emotional reward of reaching the top.

“The trail was tough but manageable, thanks to the well-maintained paths and perfect weather,” she said. “It was so satisfying to reach the summit and even more meaningful to share the experience with fellow international students.”

Bonding Beyond Borders

More than just a physical activity, the hike served as a platform for cultural exchange and friendship.

“Although we had different paces, there was a strong sense of encouragement and peer support,” said Rhoda Ramos (MDP, 2025). “Outdoor activities like this bring us all together, and that’s something really special about the Hiking Club.”

Even students like Chae Jongsu (MDP, 2025), who joined the hike out of curiosity, found new appreciation for Korea’s landscapes:

“This was a great opportunity to see a new side of Korea. For many students, it’s rare to experience rural areas or smaller mountains, so this hike offered something unique.”

Creating Lasting Memories

At the summit, students captured the moment with photos, smiles, and shared stories. The descent was made easier, and a bit more fun, by a scenic cable car ride back to the starting point.

Reflecting on the experience,  Sohel Chakma shared a lesson learned on the trail:

“When I felt dizzy on the stairs, I didn’t quit. I kept going. It reminded me that success might be just around the corner, even if the path feels hard.”

What is Next?

The Hiking Club has more adventures planned, including a hike to Janggunbong Peak, a beginner-friendly trail near campus, and upcoming trips to other cities.

“We’re always planning our next adventure,” said Patria. “If you love nature and the thrill of a challenge, this is the place for you.”

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a break from campus life, the KDI School Hiking Club offers more than a workout, it offers connection, exploration, and personal growth. As students climbed to the summit of Daedunsan, they also climbed toward stronger friendships and unforgettable memories.