Participants take photos at a scenic viewpoint overlooking Seoul during a hike on Mount Nam in central Seoul, Wednesday, as part of an early-morning program hosted by the Embassy of Nepal in Korea. Korea Times photo by Anna J. Park
The Embassy of Nepal in Korea organized an early morning hiking program at Mount Nam in central Seoul, Wednesday, to commemorate the first-ever International Wellness Day, bringing together diplomats and embassy staff from across the international community.
The event, which began at 6:30 a.m., saw participation from embassy officials representing countries including the United States, Brunei and others. The group gathered in the fresh spring air before setting off along Mount Nam’s scenic trails to highlight the importance of physical activity and connection with nature.
The United Nations General Assembly has designated April 15 as International Wellness Day to be observed annually, following a resolution proposed by Nepal and adopted in March 2026. The first observance this year aims to promote holistic health, including physical, mental and social well-being.
Nepal’s Ambassador to Korea Shiva Maya Tumbahangphe said the event was organized to mark the new day and promote the country’s philosophy of a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
“As you know, on March 10, 2026, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a historic resolution proclaiming April 15 of each year as International Wellness Day,” Tumbahangphe said, noting that Nepal played a leading role in advancing the initiative at the United Nations.
Participants walk during an early-morning hiking program on Mount Nam in central Seoul, Wednesday, hosted by the Embassy of Nepal in Korea. Korea Times photo by Anna J. Park
“As the penholder of this initiative, Nepal is honored to witness the overwhelming international support to this proposal,” she said, adding that the proposal was co-sponsored by 40 countries and endorsed by 143 member states.
The ambassador emphasized that the hiking event was a meaningful response to the UN’s global call for wellness and sustainable lifestyle.
“In today’s fast-paced world, we all are very busy. In the course of discharging our professional responsibilities, we often fail to give due attention to our physical and mental wellbeing. This day reminds us that simple activities like walking, hiking, spending time in nature, and connecting with friends and families can make a great impact on our health and wellbeing,” she said.
Participants walk during an early-morning program on Mount Nam in central Seoul, Wednesday, hosted by the Embassy of Nepal in Korea. Korea Times photo by Anna J. Park
Participants walked together along the tree-lined paths of Mount Nam, enjoying the spring blossoms and mild weather, while also strengthening ties within the diplomatic community.
Tumbahangphe also used the occasion to highlight Nepal’s potential as a global wellness destination.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to highlight that we want to develop Nepal as a wellness center. We have great potential for wellness tourism. We have high mountains and pleasant weather, rich traditions of yoga, meditation and Ayurveda. This makes Nepal an attractive destination of wellness,” she said.
The envoy expressed hope that the event would inspire participants to adopt healthier lifestyles. “I believe today’s hike offers a unique experience of both physical and mental well-being,” she said. “It brings us closer to nature, to each other and to a healthier way of living.”
