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Mount Gwanak vandalized with message referencing its 'good luck' reputation

Published: 01 Apr. 2026, 21:07

A rock on Mount Gwanak was recently vandalized with spray paint, as shown in this image. The text reads: “There’s no luck for you at Mount Gwanak. Nyah.” [SCREEN CAPTURE]

Mount Gwanak in southern Seoul, which has recently gained popularity among young hikers as a good-luck spot, was recently vandalized with spray paint, authorities said on Wednesday. A police investigation is now underway.

Graffiti was discovered on a rock along the mountain’s hiking trail No. 1, which runs from the Government Complex Gwacheon Station to Yeonjudae temple in Gyeonggi. Officials said most of the markings were removed during restoration work carried out on Wednesday morning, adding that the case has been referred to the Gwanak Police Precinct.

Hikers on Mount Gwanak in southern Seoul on March 7 [LEE GYU-RIM]

As the mountain is designated an urban natural park, vandalism can result in a fine of up to 3 million won ($2,000) by law.

The rock had been sprayed in yellow paint with the phrase, “There’s no luck for you at Mount Gwanak. Nyah.” The reference to “luck” appears to stem from a recent television appearance by a fortuneteller who suggested visiting the mountain when things are not going well — a remark that has since drawn more hikers.

Visitor numbers at the Seoul Hiking Tourism Center’s Mount Gwanak branch rose 9.6 percent in February compared to January following the broadcast, with a notable increase among people in their 20s and 30s seeking better prospects in employment, academics and relationships.

The district office said it plans to step up monitoring along hiking trails, including increasing the number of patrols.

This article was originally written in Korean and translated by a bilingual reporter with the help of generative AI tools. It was then edited by a native English-speaking editor. All AI-assisted translations are reviewed and refined by our newsroom.
BY LEE GYU-RIM [[email protected]]