[JoyNews24 Reporter Lee Mi-young] Choi Jong-gap, CEO of MD638, said the Trekking Class recharged him and reminded him why hiking matters.
On April 25, the 13th Hope-Finding Hiking & Trekking Class with mountaineer Oh Eun-seon was held at Mannam Square in Ui-dong, Bukhansan National Park, Seoul.
Choi, who leads the beauty brand MD638, joined the Trekking Class and walked the Bukhansan Jindallae Ridge course with other participants. He has supported the event’s mission of finding hope in nature by gifting skincare and cosmetics to attendees.
Choi said, \"These are tough times, and there aren't many reasons to smile. On days when I want to forget my worries and lose myself in nature's green for a day, the Trekking Class lets me feel the lushness of new shoots, and that brings me a lot of happiness.\"
He began attending these trekking events after Yeo Ji-yoon, CEO of Yoon Story Entertainment, suggested he join, and he has since become a regular participant.
Despite his busy schedule, Choi happily returned for the spring event. \"I first came to the Bukhansan trekking event on a friend's recommendation, and coming back each year recharges both my mind and body with the season's greenery,\" he said. \"Seeing everyone's bright faces gives me energy, so I wanted to give back by sponsoring our spring-fresh MD638 All-in-One Mist.\"
Choi encouraged the trekkers, saying, \"This moment is the most precious time and the best day. I hope this becomes a time for everyone to find hope together.\"
Under clear spring skies, participants hiked Bukhansan's Jindallae Ridge. The route started at Mannam Square in Ui-dong, followed the Jindallae Ridge up to the turnaround at Daedongmun, then descended through the Sogwichon Valley back to the starting point. Surrounded by the mountain's spring scenery, hikers admired the blossoms, enjoyed the healing atmosphere, and joined the \"Hope Companion\" effort to help neighbors in need.
Before the trek, a pre-event was attended by mountaineer Oh Eun-seon, Lee Soon-hee, head of the Gangbuk District Office, and singer Kang Seol-min, all of whom lent their support.
