Walking barefoot at the Songdo Pine Field in Pohang, South Gyeongsang Province (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Nov. 14 (Korea Bizwire) – The recent surge in barefoot walking has caused a notable uptick in individuals opting to traverse mountains, forests, and tidal flats without footwear.
However, this trend has unveiled potential drawbacks as studies reveal the adverse impact of barefoot walking on the environment. Some local authorities are urging people to refrain from this practice, also known as earthing.
Despite the onset of colder weather, many persist in barefoot hiking, prompting the posting of numerous “Path Closed” signs across Wausan Mountain in Boramae Park, Seoul, to deter barefoot hikers from straying off designated trails.
Experts warn that such off-trail paths can deplete the topsoil, essential for nourishing plants, leaving it susceptible to erosion during rainfall, thus causing ecological harm.
This issue extends beyond Wausan Mountain. Wetland areas, in particular, face significant challenges due to barefoot walking. Incheon’s Sorye Wetland Ecological Park has encountered substantial problems attributed to this practice.
Despite efforts such as banners discouraging barefoot walking to protect the habitat, numerous individuals continue to engage in the practice, even during weekdays.
The consequence of the foot traffic on these mudflats is critical. Studies have shown that just 60 steps on a mudflat in a short period can halve the activity of blue crabs an hour later, indicating the adverse impact on the local ecosystem.
Ensuring responsible behavior entails recognizing that personal health through barefooting should not compromise the health of natural ecosystems. Practicing this activity solely in designated areas is crucial to preserve both personal well-being and environmental balance.
J. S. Shin (js_shin@koreabizwire.com)
