Singer and actress Nam Gyu-ri recently set out for a hike up Mt. Gwanak, a destination that has been rapidly emerging as a "good-luck hotspot" for the MZ generation. In a video released on her YouTube channel titled “Mt. Gwanak’s Namdarami appears—let’s hike together to receive good energy,” she documented her journey to the summit of this trending destination.
The mountain's reputation was sparked by a fortune-teller who claimed, “When your luck feels blocked, go to Mt. Gwanak,” noting that making three wishes there can lead to them coming true. Since then, the area has become a staple on social media, with countless check-in photos from hikers in their 20s and 30s seeking to "break through" their obstacles.
Inside Nam Gyu-ri’s Hiking Backpack
To fuel her climb, Nam Gyu-ri packed a balanced selection of snacks: cucumber, an energy bar, water, an electrolyte drink, and hard-boiled eggs. While she initially ran up the mountain with enthusiasm, she soon found herself resting on a rock to replenish her energy with a crunchy cucumber.
“Everyone, when you go hiking, be sure to bring cucumber,” she told her viewers. “It feels like the tiring part is relieved, and it also provides hydration while being good for your skin—an all-in-one three-for-one benefit.”
Nutritional Analysis of the Snack Selection
This combination is regarded as a well-balanced set for beginner hikers:
Cucumber: High water content provides effective hydration, while the texture helps ease mental fatigue and the cooling effect soothes sun-exposed skin.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: These provide essential protein and fat to maintain fullness and support muscle recovery, though they are low in the carbohydrates needed for immediate energy.
Energy Bars: These supply the necessary carbohydrates and sugar to quickly replenish stamina, though hikers should watch for high sugar content that might cause blood sugar fluctuations.
Hydration: Water is vital for preventing dehydration, while electrolyte drinks replace minerals lost through sweat. Experts recommend drinking both rather than relying solely on electrolyte solutions.
Pro-Tip: To make a hike even more stable, beginners might consider adding bananas, nuts, or kimbap to their pack to provide a more sustained energy source.
Critical Advice for Beginner Hikers
While Mt. Gwanak is accessible and popular, experts warn that it is "by no means a pushover." The mountain features many rocky sections and steep slopes, making basic preparation and safety rules more important than the trek itself.
Choose the Right Gear: Select a gentle route and wear hiking or trekking shoes with a strong grip to prevent slipping on rocky surfaces.
Dress in Layers: Because of the significant temperature difference between the morning and afternoon, wearing layers allows you to adjust your clothing to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Use Trekking Poles: Bringing poles can significantly reduce the load on your lower-body joints, improving balance and reducing overall fatigue.
Manage Your Descent: Fatigue often peaks during the descent, increasing the strain on your knees and the risk of accidents. Control your speed and monitor your time carefully to ensure you reach the bottom before it gets dark.
