Dongtan Running Crew: The Local Guides to Running a Modern Korean City
In the planned city of Dongtan, a running crew was established in May 2018 by Shin to promote running as a way to motivate, connect, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Dongtan Running Crew (DTRC) was formed as a community of local runners, offering diverse group training sessions to help participants get familiar with the area and increase their motivation to exercise.
The philosophy of DTRC is to help people enjoy running together while also making them stronger and faster. The founders created a space that is both fun and focused, where the community gathers to reach their healthy lifestyle goals. A key principle of their group is that DTRC doesn't leave anyone behind; the team values mutual support and makes sure everyone feels welcome, no matter their pace.
The culture of DTRC revolves around consistent group training and a strong understanding of the local area. They offer dozens of routes and insider tips on local trails, making them ideal guides for anyone wanting to explore Dongtan's running scene. Their sessions are tailored to each member's skill level and goals, fostering a motivating and effective training environment.
DTRC warmly invites any runner in the Dongtan area looking to join a fun and supportive community. They have a straightforward process for guests who want to try a run and for those interested in becoming full crew members. All meetup details and announcements are available in the Highlights section of their official social media channels.
The Gyeonggi-do Running Scene
DTRC is a key part of the lively running scene in Gyeonggi-do province. Their hometowns of Dongtan and Suwon also host other notable groups, including the Special Moment Running Crew (SMRC), which was formed during the pandemic to create memorable running experiences. This dense network of crews makes the region a true hub for community running in South Korea.
The city of Dongtan is a highly modern, planned city located within Hwaseong, just south of Seoul. It is one of Korea's newest and most vibrant urban areas, known for its modern infrastructure and as a major hub for technology firms. This carefully designed environment, with its numerous parks and wide streets, is ideal for running.
The running routes of DTRC showcase the best of their modern city. A central feature of the city is the magnificent Dongtan Lake Park, which offers a beautiful and scenic setting for runs of any distance. The crew also explores the many paths that wind through the city's residential and commercial areas, as well as the nearby historic city of Suwon, with its famous UNESCO World Heritage Hwaseong Fortress. For major races, the crew often targets the prestigious Seoul International Marathon, a world-renowned event held in the nearby capital.
