‘Must I Run Naked?’: Local Governments Issue Advisories Against Topless Running Amid Rising Complaints

As South Korea swelters under a heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) and even nearing 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), a growing number of runners are opting to run shirtless in parks and along riverside paths. This trend, however, has prompted some local governments to post signs advising against or prohibiting topless running, igniting a debate over public decency and personal freedom.

Runners like Mr. Jo, a 40-year-old who exercises several times a week, are now self-censoring. "I often used to run without a shirt when I was running long distances in the summer heat because I sweat so much," he said. "But recently, I've seen guidance banners in the park asking people to refrain from running topless, so I'm holding back."

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I often used to run without a shirt when I was running long distances in the summer heat because I sweat so much, but recently, I've seen guidance banners in the park asking people to refrain from running topless, so I'm holding back.

The controversy pits those who believe clothing is a matter of public etiquette against those who see the restrictions as an overreach. In Seoul's Namsan Park and Yeouido Park, signs stating "Please refrain from running topless" and "No bare chests" are visible. Mr. Hong, 76, welcomed the signs, noting a visible decrease in topless runners since their installation. He mentioned that he often used to advise runners to wear shirts.

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Please refrain from running topless.

However, many disagree. Ms. Yoo, 31, who runs in light attire on hot days, finds the restrictions excessive. "Even in the United States, some cities with a high percentage of Jewish residents prohibit topless running," she noted, suggesting a more conservative approach elsewhere. "Personally, I don't think topless running needs to be regulated, but if a majority of citizens are uncomfortable, it's necessary to comply."

Legally, local governments have no firm basis for these advisories. South Korea's Minor Offenses Act defines "excessive exposure" as revealing primary body parts like genitals or buttocks, punishable by a fine of up to 100,000 won. Despite the lack of legal teeth, the signs seem to be having an effect. According to the Seoul Central Park and Recreation Center, complaints related to running, which included 10 cases of topless running out of 44 total last year, dropped to just one formal complaint after banners were posted in September. Officials stated they guide people to exercise restraint through public announcements rather than strictly enforcing the law, considering that most people are simply trying to exercise.

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Even in the United States, some cities with a high percentage of Jewish residents prohibit topless running. Personally, I don't think topless running needs to be regulated, but if a majority of citizens are uncomfortable, it's necessary to comply.