Literature, reality TV fuel South Korea's growing interest in Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route is experiencing a surge in popularity in South Korea, driven by a growing interest in literature and reality television programs focused on the journey. This trend is drawing more South Koreans to walk the ancient paths across Europe.

A journalist's personal account details the increasing number of pilgrims encountered on the Camino Francés, particularly as spring arrives and the Roncevaux Pass opens, a common starting point for many walkers. The atmosphere on the trail becomes more vibrant, with more frequent greetings of "Buen camino!" and livelier evenings in the hostels.

During one such evening, a conversation with a young couple from Seoul revealed the extent of the Camino's popularity in South Korea. When asked about their presence on the pilgrimage, the woman explained, "It is very popular in our country. There have been books and even reality shows about the Compostela pilgrimage." Her brief but telling answer highlighted the cultural impact of the route.

The article, which is reserved for subscribers, promises to delve deeper into the reasons behind this phenomenon. It suggests that the combination of literary narratives and popular media, such as reality TV, has significantly boosted the appeal of the Camino de Santiago among South Koreans, transforming it into a sought-after experience.