Bundang Line Running Crew: Following the Line to a Fun, Inclusive Community
In the bustling new city of Bundang, a running crew was founded in August 2019, driven by a desire to create a space where everyone, including absolute beginners, could run comfortably together. The Bundang Line Running Crew (BLRC) was founded by Jun Woo-shim and a group of friends who shared a passion for running around their local subway line. What they started has evolved into a thriving community where runners of all levels can support one another, have fun, and explore their city.
The philosophy of BLRC is rooted in empathy and inclusivity. The founders understood how challenging and intimidating it can be for beginners to join a running crew, so they set out to create a friendly and approachable community. Their goal is to prove that running is more enjoyable when done together and to make it easy for anyone to take that first step. They believe that everyone can run, regardless of skill level, and they have successfully built a community that embodies this welcoming spirit.
A Community that Lights Up the Night
The community of BLRC is more than just a running crew; they are event organizers who have created a beloved local tradition. Initially started due to the lack of running competitions during the pandemic, the crew now organizes the annual Tancheon Starlight Run. This event takes place at night along the Tancheon stream, with the course lit up by colorful lights, creating a magical and festive atmosphere for the entire running community. This initiative showcases their commitment to creating new and exciting experiences for their city.
The culture of Bundang Line Running Crew is built around their consistent and social weekly run. The crew holds its regular session every Monday at 8:30 p.m., meeting at the bustling Jeongja Station. From there, they embark on a 5k route through Bundang, where beginners are welcome to join and run at their own comfortable pace. The run is always followed by a post-run gathering at a nearby café for a chat and a light stretch session, which is a key part of their friendly and supportive culture.
BLRC extends a warm invitation to anyone in the Bundang area who is tired of running alone or is looking to try something new. They believe that running brings people together and creates new friendships, and they welcome anyone who wants to experience this with them. There is no fee to join, and you are encouraged to connect with them via their official social media channels.
The Bundang Running Scene
BLRC is a key part of the incredibly vibrant and dense running scene in the Bundang district. The area is also home to other pioneering groups, such as the original Bundang Running Crew (BRC), which focuses on positive energy, and Run In Bundang (RUNB), the city's first crew for young runners. This rich and diverse ecosystem makes Bundang a true hub for community running within the greater Seoul Capital Area.
Bundang, a well-planned new city within Seongnam, is one of South Korea's major IT hubs, often compared to America's Silicon Valley. Its modern infrastructure, wide streets, and beautiful parks are perfect for running. The crew takes full advantage of this, often running routes along the path of the Bundang Line subway and the scenic Tancheon stream, which flows all the way to Seoul. For major races, the crew is a regular presence at premier events, such as the Seoul Marathon.
