Nearing the Border, Finding Light in the Grey

Daily miles: 31.9 | Total miles 10,378.18

I woke at 6:20am — coffee, packing, and out by 7:30. The first stretch led me out of town and back to the river, where a slight blue-golden morning light painted everything in a gentle, serene glow. I stopped far too many times simply because I couldn’t help it — it was that magical. The trees lining the water seemed wrapped in natural spiderweb lace, forming little tunnels and rounded shapes along the shore. It felt like running through a dream.

Today I passed numerous military checkpoints. The soldiers weren’t allowed to take photos — I’m sure many of them would have enjoyed a selfie moment, but they stayed focused on their duties. Still, they greeted me with friendliness and warmth — young men carrying out their responsibilities with quiet kindness.

I ran past bases lined with military trucks, boats, and first-aid vehicles. A helicopter circled overhead — I first assumed it was military, but a soldier later told me it was a tourist aircraft. Later in Yeoju, an extended military convoy rolled by — tanks and other specialized vehicles moving in steady formation. As I get closer to the South–North Korean border, the military presence grows stronger and unmistakable. The sense of readiness and vigilance is clear — yet the human presence within it remains open, calm, and courteous.

At one point, I had to push the buggy up an incline built with wooden planks leading from the cycle path up to a bridge — the kind where you have to walk your bike. I took it step by step, board by board, not knowing how steep it would become. Then a cyclist appeared, walking his bike downward. Without hesitation, he stopped, parked his bike, and helped me push the buggy all the way up. At the top, there were additional obstacles, so we lifted it together.

Moments like that remind me of one truth: yes, I can do it alone… but it’s so beautiful when someone steps in to help.

Throughout the run I met many people who showed interest, and I shared about my project using my website. Their supportive response was almost always the same simple word: “Fighting!” I love that spirit — strong, encouraging, forward-moving.

Later, I left the riverside path and asked a group of locals for directions. I already knew the funny pattern: often I end up more confused after asking. This time was no different — they weren’t entirely sure, and I could see it. So I smiled, thanked them, and followed my navigation anyway. It worked. I reached the hotel, found the room comfortable and familiar — standard features: bed, kettle, toiletries, quiet.

I walked to the supermarket, bought food for tonight and tomorrow, and now I am ready to sleep.

See you tomorrow, Andrea