28th Busan Kookje Marathon 2026

The 28th Busan Kookje Marathon is a large coastal road-running event at Dadaepo Beach in Saha-gu, Busan, organised by Kookje Daily News and Sportlink. The 2026 edition is capped at 10,000 paid entries and offers a half marathon, 10K and 5K. Entries opened on 20 July and are now closed after the participant quota was filled.

Race morning starts from the Dadaepo Beach event area, where runners are asked to assemble by 08:00. After event briefings and safety guidance, the half marathon starts at 09:00, followed by the 10K at 09:05 and 5K at 09:10. Current course descriptions place the race along Busan's south-western waterfront around Dadaepo and the Nakdong River estuary. The event programme runs until noon.

Cut-offs are three hours for the half marathon, two hours for 10K and one hour 30 minutes for 5K. The half and 10K use electronic timing and provide net times. Runners must pass the designated turnaround timing points. Water and sports drink are provided at regular intervals, including every 5 km for the half and 10K, while the half marathon also has an energy-food point around 10 km.

There is no conventional race-pack expo. Bibs, timing chips, souvenirs and the event guide are sent in advance by courier to individual entrants or group representatives. On race day there are changing and baggage-storage facilities, medical support, water, snacks and finisher medals. Mobile certificates are issued after the event for half-marathon and 10K finishers. Dadaepo Beach is accessible via Busan Metro Line 1, with Dadaepo Beach Station a short walk from the venue.