ASEAN-Korea Olle Route Launches on Jeju Island: A Pathway to Friendship
Secretary General of the ASEAN-Korea Centre Kim Jae-shin poses with ASEAN ambassadors to Korea and other officials after Friday’s launching event of the ASEAN-Korea Olle Route on Jeju Island. Courtesy of ASEAN-Korea Centre
So, picture this: Jeju Island, a sunny day, and a group of dignitaries all standing around looking sharp. Secretary General Kim Jae-shin took center stage to unveil the “Jeju Olle Trail 8 Route: ASEAN-Korea Olle.” Sounds fancy, doesn’t it? Well, it really is a testament to a 35-year friendship between Korea and the ASEAN nations, a love story that began in 1987 and has spanned everything from trade to cultural exchanges. If only it involved more romance and less paperwork!
Kim started off with a warm welcome, which was as refreshing as a cool breeze on a beach day. He reminisced about the trail’s humble beginnings back in 2007, taking its first wobbly steps into the world. Fast forward 15 years, and it now connects nearly 440 kilometers of beautiful scenery. That’s right, folks, a total of 27 routes ready to take you through volcanic landscapes, forests, and the coastal charm of Jeju. Finally, a reason to get off the couch!
Secretary General of the ASEAN-Korea Centre Kim Jae-shin delivers a speech during the ASEAN-Korea Olle Trail launch. Courtesy of ASEAN-Korea Centre
But wait, there’s more! The Olle Trail isn’t just a pretty walking path; it’s a metaphor for the intertwined fates of Korea and ASEAN. Spiritual, right? Kim went on to highlight that, just like the winding paths of the Olle Trail, the journey of friendship isn’t always linear and sometimes involves a few metaphorical sheep and lost hikers.
This event was more than just a walk in the park (or trail, in this case). The launch celebrated the upgrade of relations between Korea and ASEAN to the “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.” Sounds like a title you’d get after a rigorous year of relationship counseling! Kim promised more initiatives, including signage and benches that represent the ASEAN nations, because what says “we’re in this together” quite like a commemorative bench?
ASEAN ambassadors donate their favorite hand-signed books to the ASEAN Culture & Tourism Book Corner established at the Jeju International Peace Center. Courtesy of ASEAN-Korea Centre
Philippine Ambassador Maria Theresa Dizon-De Vega also chimed in, giving a heartfelt speech about fostering cross-cultural understanding among future generations. She said that as you stroll along the Olle 8 route, surrounded by nature, you might just forget your troubles for a moment… unless you trip over a root, in which case you may want to pick up that stylized sign board and toss it in the nearby bushes.
The ASEAN-Korea Centre, established in 2009, is on a mission to expand cooperation and cultural exchanges. And with plans to extend the trail into Southeast Asia, who knows? There could be a Jeju Olle-inspired path winding through your next vacation destination! I can see it now: a retreat in Bali while walking the Olle path—your Instagram feed would thank you.
Secretary General of the ASEAN-Korea Centre Kim Jae-shin, ninth from left, poses with ASEAN ambassadors to Korea and other officials during Friday’s launch of the ASEAN-Korea Olle Route on Jeju Island. Courtesy of ASEAN-Korea Centre
By Kim Hyun-bin
JEJU ISLAND — In a significant celebration, the ASEAN-Korea Centre and the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province officially launched the “Jeju Olle Trail 8 Route: ASEAN-Korea Olle” on Friday. This important ceremony drew an impressive gathering of dignitaries, including Jeju government officials, ambassadors from ten ASEAN countries, and renowned actor Ryu Seung-ryong, underscoring the event’s cultural and diplomatic importance. ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
Kim expressed his admiration for the natural beauty of Jeju Island, emphasizing its global appeal. “It is a great pleasure to gather here on this beautiful Jeju Island. It is particularly meaningful to greet you at this Olle Trail, one of Jeju’s most iconic attractions,” said Kim Jae-shin, Secretary General of the ASEAN-Korea Centre.
The Olle Trail, which began with the vision of President Seo Myung-sook of the Olle Foundation in 2007, has evolved magnificently over 15 years to now encompass 27 routes spanning an impressive 437 kilometers. This initiative has connected countless individuals, promoting health and well-being through shared experiences in nature.
The Jeju Olle Trail is a remarkable network of walking paths specifically designed to showcase the stunning natural beauty of Jeju Island, including breathtaking coastal views, dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and charming rural villages. With inspiration drawn from Spain’s renowned Pilgrim’s Trail, the Jeju Olle Trail boasts over 400 kilometers of walking paths that include 26 main routes and various subroutes to cater to varied hiking preferences, accommodating both casual walkers and seasoned explorers.
Secretary General of the ASEAN-Korea Centre Kim Jae-shin delivers remarks at the launch of the Jeju Olle Trail 8 Route: ASEAN-Korea Olle on Jeju Island, Friday. Courtesy of ASEAN-Korea Centre
During his address, Kim highlighted critical parallels between the landmark Olle Trail and the enduring relations forged with ASEAN nations over the years.
He noted, “The pathway of the Olle Trail somewhat mirrors the 35-year long journey of friendship between Korea and ASEAN. Since we established dialogue in 1987, these two regions have witnessed remarkable growth in trade, investment, and interactions among people.”
He further elaborated on their recent achievements, stating, “As a testament to this progress, during the 25th ASEAN-Korea Summit held on October 25, we announced the upgrade of our relationship to the highest level of partnership — the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”
Kim emphasized the commitment of the ASEAN-Korea Centre to fostering collaboration along the path of friendship, focusing on critical areas like trade, investment, culture, tourism, and enhancing people-to-people exchanges.
He emphasized the significance of the new trail, stating, “It is especially meaningful that we are introducing the ‘Jeju Olle Trail 8 Route: ASEAN-Korea Olle’ today. This trail will serve as an enduring landmark, showcasing one of Korea’s key tourism assets — the Olle Trail, to ASEAN countries while also encouraging our citizens to explore the rich cultures of Southeast Asian nations.”
Kim also revealed plans to enhance the trail by installing commemorative benches and signage representing each of the ten ASEAN countries, marking this important initiative. “Starting with the unveiling of the commemorative bench today, the center plans to install an additional 10 benches and signages representing each of the 10 ASEAN countries next year,” he mentioned.
He envisioned an expansion of the trail beyond Korea, highlighting aspirations to develop pathways in renowned tourist destinations across Southeast Asia, symbolizing the friendship shared between Korea and ASEAN.
Philippine Ambassador Maria Theresa Dizon-De Vega, chair of the ASEAN Committee in Seoul, expressed optimism about the potential of these initiatives to promote cross-cultural understanding and strengthen connections across generations.
She stated, “It is our hope that together, the physical presence of ASEAN in the Jeju Peace Hall, and as you stroll along the beautiful Olle 8 route, along with the books that can transport readers to the Southeast Asian region, will all serve to support our shared goals of promoting cross-cultural understanding and stronger connections across current and future generations as stated in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”
Established in 2009, the ASEAN-Korea Centre acts as an intergovernmental organization formed by the governments of Korea and ten ASEAN member countries, fulfilling its mission to expand economic and sociocultural exchanges and cooperation between ASEAN and Korea.
Southeast Asia, thereby fostering a deeper connection between the regions. As he concluded, Kim expressed hope that visitors will forge bonds and create memories as they navigate both the picturesque landscapes of Jeju and the rich cultures of ASEAN.
The launch of the ASEAN-Korea Olle Route not only celebrates the natural beauty of Jeju but also reflects a collaborative spirit that has grown stronger over the years. The new route represents a commitment to cultural exchange and mutual understanding, reinforcing the ties that link Korea and ASEAN nations.
With engaging activities planned, including cultural events and the introduction of interactive elements along the trail, Kim indicated that the ASEAN-Korea Centre seeks to create a vibrant space where travelers can learn, connect, and enjoy moments of serenity. He urged everyone to take part in this journey, whether through leisurely walks or cultural explorations, and to appreciate the rich tapestry of experiences that both Korea and ASEAN have to offer.
As the sun began to set over the horizon, casting a golden glow over Jeju’s stunning landscape, it was clear that this trail wasn’t just about hiking—it symbolized a path forward for cooperation, friendship, and understanding among the diverse nations that comprise ASEAN and Korea.
In a world that sometimes feels fragmented, the Olle Trail stands as a reminder of the beauty of unity in diversity, inviting all to come together and explore the paths that weave our stories.