The 2026 Seoul Marathon took place on Sunday, 15 March, in the South Korean capital and delivered everything fans could have hoped for. With close to 40,000 participants including elite athletes and recreational runners, Asia’s oldest marathon once again showed why it still holds World Athletics’ Platinum Label. The 7:30 a.m. start from Gwanghwamun Square and the finish in the Jamsil sports complex turned the city into a true running festival.
Beyond the mass-participation side of the event, the 2026 edition featured 173 elite runners from nine countries, a significant jump in international participation compared with the previous year. The return of major names and the realistic chance of a course record suggested a memorable race. That is exactly what happened: a dramatic sprint finish, personal bests and a clear Ethiopian dominance in both elite races.
History and background of the Seoul Marathon
Officially known as the Dong-A Marathon, the event was first held in 1931 and is widely recognised as the oldest marathon in Asia still being staged today. Its near-century-long history mirrors the modern evolution of South Korea itself, and its route blends tradition and modernity, connecting the monumental setting of Gwanghwamun with the Olympic legacy of Jamsil.
For 2026, the Seoul Metropolitan Government introduced updated race guidelines, including an earlier start time and stricter measures to reduce disruption in the city. At the same time, the Seoul Running Expo reinforced the race weekend’s festival atmosphere with runner services, activities and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
A dramatic finish in the men’s race
The men’s elite field promised a battle from the start. Defending champion Haftu Teklu returned alongside experienced stars such as Sisay Lemma, as well as sub-2:05 marathoners like Getaneh Molla, Gilbert Kibet and Tsegaye Getachew. The race delivered exactly the kind of showdown expected from such a line-up.
By around the 40 km mark, six athletes were still together, setting up a tense and tactical finish. Molla made the first serious move and appeared to have broken the race open, taking advantage of a difficult spell for Lemma. But Teklu stayed calm, matched the pace and saved his final effort for the last possible moment.
The race was decided inside the Jamsil finish area. Getaneh Molla looked ready to claim victory, but Haftu Teklu had one final acceleration left. He produced a decisive sprint in the closing metres and crossed the line in 2:04:23, setting a new course record and improving his personal best. Molla finished just one second behind in 2:04:24, while several other runners also dipped under the previous course record, showing just how deep the quality was in Seoul this year.
- 1st Haftu Teklu (Ethiopia) – 2:04:23
- 2nd Getaneh Molla (Ethiopia) – 2:04:24
- 3rd Gilbert Kibet (Kenya) – 2:04:32
- 4th Tsegaye Getachew (Ethiopia) – 2:04:33
- 5th Sufaro Woliyi Kabeto (Ethiopia) – 2:04:36
- 6th Enock Kinyamal (Kenya) – 2:04:46
Teklu’s victory strengthens his special connection with Seoul. He had already performed strongly there in previous editions, but in 2026 he took another step forward with a performance built on patience, composure and a devastating finishing kick. Managing 42.195 km at high speed and still finding another gear in the last 200 metres is something only the best marathoners can do.
Lemma’s drop off the podium, despite his credentials, was another reminder of how demanding the race was. Seoul may be fast, but winning there still requires tactical maturity, not just speed.
Ethiopian dominance in the women’s race
If the men’s race stayed open almost to the line, the women’s race was decided earlier. Ethiopia’s Haven Hailu Desse managed the first half with intelligence, stayed under control through the middle kilometres and launched her decisive move in the final part of the course. She crossed the line in 2:19:09, setting a personal best and finishing 30 seconds clear of the runner-up.
The women’s race also highlighted the depth of Ethiopian marathon running. The first three finishers all came from Ethiopia, and four of the top five women broke 2:20. Pre-race favourite Tiruye Mesfin never found her best rhythm and had to settle for fifth, while Desse produced the most complete race of the day.
- 1st Haven Hailu Desse (Ethiopia) – 2:19:09
- 2nd Bekelech Gudeta (Ethiopia) – 2:19:39
- 3rd Bosena Mulatie (Ethiopia) – 2:19:47
- 4th Joyce Chepkemoi Tele (Kenya) – 2:19:50
- 5th Tiruye Mesfin (Ethiopia) – 2:20:45
Desse’s win puts her firmly in the conversation among the world’s leading marathoners. Her controlled opening, disciplined pacing and strong finish showed the kind of maturity that wins major races, especially on a course designed for fast times.
The course and atmosphere: more than just a marathon
The Seoul Marathon course is one of the event’s major attractions. It begins in Gwanghwamun Square, near the city’s historic heart, and heads south towards the Olympic district of Jamsil. The profile is mostly flat, which makes it attractive for runners targeting a personal best or simply hoping for a smooth and consistent race rhythm.
But Seoul offers more than speed. The race also delivers a powerful cultural experience, blending historic landmarks, modern urban scenery and an unmistakable Korean race-day atmosphere. In 2026, international participation rose sharply again, reinforcing Seoul’s reputation as a marathon that appeals not only to elite athletes, but also to travellers and ambitious amateur runners from around the world.
Tips for runners who want to race in Seoul
The Seoul Marathon is an excellent option both for runners chasing a time and for those looking for a new international marathon experience. If you are considering entering a future edition, these tips may help:
- Register early: demand continues to grow, especially among international runners.
- Prepare for jet lag: arriving several days in advance can make a big difference.
- Train for steady pacing: the flat profile rewards rhythm and discipline.
- Be ready for cool weather: March is usually fresh, with occasional wind.
- Explore the city: combining marathon travel with cultural discovery makes the trip even more memorable.
- Use the SnapRace app: it can help you structure training, log sessions and discover routes near your hotel.
SnapRace: your partner for marathon preparation
If you are thinking about running the Seoul Marathon or any other international race, SnapRace can help you prepare more effectively. The app lets you organise your training, analyse sessions and share your progress with other runners, making it easier to stay motivated during a long marathon build-up.
Final thoughts
The 2026 Seoul Marathon will be remembered for the late sprint between Teklu and Molla, for Ethiopian dominance in both elite races and for a new course record. But beyond the numbers, the event also showed how running continues to connect cultures, cities and communities. If you are looking for a marathon that is fast, well organised and rich in character, Seoul deserves a place near the top of your list.
And if you want to keep exploring the major races on the calendar, you can also check out our guide to the 2026 Madrid Marathon or discover more articles on the blog. See you at the start line!