Seoul mayor says to review next year's marathons from 'scratch' after severe traffic disruptions

What happened: Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon said marathons scheduled in Seoul next year will be reviewed from "scratch" after complaints about severe traffic disruptions, pledging to revisit routes and schedules. Key numbers: City-sponsored marathons cut to 7 this year from 15 last year. Central government-backed races rose to 23 this year from 1 in 2025. Why it matters: Oh said running events are not subject to city approval and pledged to work with the central government, police and organizers to minimize inconveniences.

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon said marathons scheduled in Seoul next year will be reviewed from "scratch" after complaints about severe traffic disruptions, pledging to revisit routes and schedules.

Oh said running events are not subject to city approval and pledged to work with the central government, police and organizers to minimize inconveniences.