Climbing rocky cliffs, walking along snow-covered ridges, and spending the night huddled in a single tent. Pushing yourself beyond your fear of heights, the cold, and your physical limits. Some may ask why anyone would put themselves through such hardship, but the answer from the members of the Korea University Mountaineering Club is simple and clear. “We know it's going to be tough, but we keep coming back to the mountains.” It's a world where challenges, romance, and strong camaraderie thrive.

Q. Please introduce the Korea University Mountaineering Club.

Woo-hyun: The Korea University Mountaineering Club is a sports club affiliated with the Physical Education Office, with a long history of rock climbing on natural cliffs. Many people mistake us for a “hiking club” (I did too), but our main activity is rock climbing. As part of our physical training, we also do trail running and hiking, and when preparing for early morning climbs, we sometimes camp overnight. During semesters, we go on regular climbs near Seoul, and during vacations, we go on expeditions to various places around the country and abroad. Over the last three years, we went on expeditions to Ala Archa in Kyrgyzstan, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in France, and Banff in Canada. Considering the risks involved, we prioritize safety above all else, always keeping in mind that “the end of a mountain climb is returning home safely.”

Q. How would you describe your mountaineering club in one word?

Woo-hyun: I don't think there's a better way to describe the mountaineering club than “asking for trouble.” But it's not all bad. The breathtaking views from the summit after climbing up with sweat pouring down, the sense of accomplishment when you push past your limits, and the relief and gratitude you feel when you come down from the mountain and return home. It's these things that keep me coming back to the mountains.

Sun-ho: Looking at YouTube comments and reactions from people around me, most people say, “Why bother?” But in the end, what sticks with me are the moments when it was really hard. It's true that we choose to make things difficult for ourselves.

Jae-yul: “Romantic.” We do activities that are difficult to experience in ordinary life, such as camping, rock climbing, ice climbing, and campfires.

Yoo-min: “Challenge.” For me, everything I do here is a series of challenges.

Q. What was the most thrilling moment you experienced while climbing a mountain?

Sun-ho: The most thrilling moment was when I climbed Towaegol in Seoraksan Mountain using the Anseilen method in February this year. This is a method of climbing by connecting to each other with ropes, so if one person makes a mistake, everyone is in danger. The view of the ridges of Seoraksan Mountain and the sea beyond from the summit of Daecheongbong Peak was truly impressive.

Jae-yul: When climbing a cliff so high that falling would mean certain death, relying on only one piece of equipment, I always feel a mixture of fear and excitement. The view of the mountain ridges spreading out below me from the summit of Seoraksan Mountain was truly spectacular. I could see the entire mountain, the city, and even the sea beyond.

Yoo-min: The summit of Bulamsan Mountain, my first climb, is what stays with me the most. That first experience was so good that I think it's why I'm still in the mountaineering club. I haven't found the “best view” yet, but I'm sure I will someday.

Q. Do you have any memorable stories?

Woo-hyun: Late January this year, when I went to climb Seoraksan Mountain, I accidentally brought a summer mosquito net tent. I remember spending the night huddled in my sleeping bag in freezing temperatures of minus 40 degrees Celsius, with the wind tearing at the tent and condensation forming. It was tough, but now it's a valuable lesson and a memory I'll never forget.

Sun-ho: I once practiced glissading in Death Valley and lost control of my speed, rolling down the slope. My face was numb, so I took a selfie and saw that my nose was bleeding. It was the first time I had ever bled from my nose, but I just laughed it off.

Jae-yul: I once dropped my phone while climbing Seoraksan Mountain and lost it, but thanks to the help of my teammates, I miraculously found it, and I'm still grateful for that moment.

Yoo-min: I also remember when we grilled meat and we didn't bring scissors, so we slurped it like noodles.

Climbing a moulin on the Mer de Glace during the Chamonix expedition in 2024 (left) and climbing Sobaeksan Mountain to celebrate the end of the school year in 2022 (right)

Q. When did you feel a special bond while climbing together?

Woo-hyun: Climbing always requires a team of at least two people, so mutual trust is essential. We take turns acting as belayers, entrusting our lives to each other, so we naturally form deep bonds with our teammates.

Sun-ho: It was when we started our trek across Seorak Mountain, walking toward the entrance of the national park with heavy backpacks on our shoulders. Memories of the past flashed before my eyes, and I was determined to complete this journey together.

Q. Do you have any special routines after mountain climbing?

Woo-hyun: After our climbing trip, we stop by the mountain club room to organize our equipment and write reviews, reflecting on the day's activities. I think this is an essential process to ensure safety. And of course, we can't miss the after-party! There's a restaurant we often go to after mountain climbing. It's a chicken place at the foot of Bukhansan Mountain, and the chicken with makgeolli is just delicious.

Sun-ho: Even though I regret going mountain climbing because it's so hard, once I start eating, I find myself planning my next challenge as if nothing happened. It's really strange.

Jae-yul: It's our tradition to talk about our mountain climbing trip while eating dinner and leave reviews on Naver Cafe.

Q. Which mountain climbing review left the deepest impression on you after reading it?

Sun-ho: I remember the review left by a former club leader before he left for his international exchange program. He was the first leader of the club, and he wrote about his feelings when he took on the role and welcomed new members with great sincerity. He considered climbing to be a part of his life, and his passion came through in every sentence. Even now, when I read his review, I wonder if I can ever be as sincere as he was.

Yoo-min: The most impressive part of the review was the line, “Why do we climb cracks (cracks in rock walls)? Because each of us has our own dream line there.” It may sound a little corny when you say it out loud, but when you read it, you can really feel the passion for climbing.

Woo-hyun: Yoo-min's reviews are very impressive. I tend to write mainly based on facts, but Yoo-min captures the emotions and small details of the day, bringing back moments that I had missed.

Q. How has your experience in the mountains influenced your attitude toward life and your values?

Woo-hyun: I realized that there isn't much I can do without the help of others, and as the leader of the club, I've developed a sense of responsibility for everyone's safety. I've also gotten better at handling stress.

Sun-ho: Mountain climbing is such a thrilling activity that I don't really need any other excitement in my daily life. When I come home on weekends after using up all my energy, my daily life passes by quietly.

Jae-yul: I used to be very timid and indecisive, but joining the mountaineering club helped me develop a more proactive attitude.

Yoo-min: Having experienced many challenging situations, I naturally came to think, “It's nothing compared to what I went through back then,” when faced with minor setbacks.

Q. How would you recommend the mountaineering club to freshmen?

Woo-hyun: Most people dislike mountains because they are challenging, but there are many reasons to appreciate them. Even if you don't have a specific reason, once you visit, you will discover your own reasons to enjoy them.

Sun-ho: Climbing is an activity that is very rewarding but also has a high barrier to entry. Still, one thing I can say for sure is that there is no other club that leaves you with so many fond memories.

Yoo-min: I think it's the most challenging club. I recommend it to those who like challenges or are introverted but want to feel a sense of community. The appeal of the club can be expressed with words such as “immersion,” “adventure,” and “achievement.”

The club members are having a conversation.

Q. What was the most challenging climbing course you have ever attempted? And is there a mountain you would like to climb in the future?

Woo-hyun: Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, the Himalayas in Nepal at an altitude of 6,000 meters, and Patagonia. These are the three places I definitely want to climb.

Sun-ho: I want to try climbing Puncak Jaya (Carstensz) in Indonesia. It's because it's on a continent that our mountaineering club hasn't climbed yet. I definitely want to plant our flag there someday.

Jae-yul: The winter climbing of Seorak Mountain was the most challenging. My goal is to climb all the peaks in South Korea's national parks.

Yoo-min: I want to try climbing the unfinished route at Ganhyunam again. I'm also looking forward to the North Alps expedition planned for this year.

Q. What specific moment do you think you will miss the most after graduation?

Woo-hyun: This moment right now. I think I will miss my boundless passion, the dingy but cozy club room, and the freedom to climb mountains whenever I want.

Sun-ho: Right now, when I can just go on spontaneous trips with my college friends every weekend. Once we graduate, we'll all be busy with our own lives, so it'll be hard to go on these reckless climbing trips.

Jae-yul: I think the time spent camping with my seniors, sitting together and sharing dinner, will be the most memorable and missable.

Yoo-min: Although I can continue club activities as a former member, I might miss the days when I was a student and could get free meals from my seniors.