Pohang Marathon

Pohang Marathon

Pohang, North Gyeongsang, South Korea

Overview

The Pohang Marathon attracts approximately 5,000 finishers each October through South Korea's steel-city port on the East Sea. The course passes Hwanho Park, the POSCO steelworks waterfront, and the Homigot sunrise square area with coastal views. October's mild Korean autumn makes it a popular regional race on the southeast coast.

Pohang Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Pohang Marathon 2026 race day

The next Pohang Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 25 October 2026 with a 8:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 100 m of climbing on a mostly flat with gentle undulations layout.

Pohang Marathon course route

The Pohang Marathon is a scenic coastal road that starts and finishes at Hwanho Park or the Pohang city centre. The loop follows the East Sea coastline, passes the POSCO waterfront, and reaches the Homigot area. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators gather along the waterfront, at the start-finish festival, and at organised cheer stations on the most scenic coastal stretches.

Pohang Marathon elevation profile

The Pohang Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 100 metres of climbing and 95 metres of descent, with a net climb of 5 metres from start to finish.

Entry requirements

The Pohang Marathon accepts entries through pohangmarathon.co.kr, using open registration when places remain available and a lottery when demand exceeds capacity. Sign-up for the May race typically opens in April. The modest field size on South Korea's east coast makes general entry more accessible than Seoul-area ballot races.

Pohang Marathon course video

Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.

2016 Pohang Marathon (formerly Pohang Beach Marathon) Course Preview | Haeoreum Bridge: Extreme D...

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pohang Marathon elevation profile?
The Pohang Marathon has 100 metres of total climbing and 95 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.
How long is the Pohang Marathon?
The Pohang Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal course starting and finishing at Hwanho Park or the Pohang city centre.
What time does the Pohang Marathon start?
The 2026 Pohang Marathon starts at 8:00 am local time on Sunday, 25 October 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.pohangmarathon.co.kr/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Pohang Marathon start?
The race starts and finishes at Hwanho Park or the Pohang city-centre festival area. The coastal loop is mapped at https://www.pohangmarathon.co.kr/.
When is the Pohang Marathon?
The Pohang Marathon is held in October, typically on the fourth Sunday.
Is the Pohang Marathon flat?
The coastal course is largely flat with gentle undulations. It is less hilly than Busan's coastal marathon.
What is Pohang known for?
Pohang is home to POSCO, one of the world's largest steelmakers, and Homigot — the easternmost point of South Korea where the East Sea sunrise is celebrated.
What weather should I expect in Pohang in October?
October in Pohang is mild autumn weather, often 12–20 °C (54–68 °F) with sea breezes along the East Sea coast.

Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

Nearby Marathons

Other races closest to Pohang.

Gyeongju Marathon
Gongju Baekje Marathon

Related guides

View all marathon guides →