Seoul National University Launches Mountain Climbing Scholarship Amid High Competition

South Korea's Seoul National University has announced that over 1,400 students have applied for an unconventional scholarship aimed at encouraging mountain climbing. The Misan Mountain Hiking Scholarship provides financial awards—up to $540—for students who complete the challenge of ascending six mountains, with smaller rewards for climbing three. The eligible peaks are listed in Black Yak's 100 Famous Mountains and 100+ Famous Mountains, excluding any accessible by cable car or gondola. Participants are required to upload proof of their climbs through the Black Yak app. Funded by alumnus Kwon Jun-ha, class of 1963, the scholarship is limited to approximately 70 recipients, but the high number of applications has created intense competition. The university emphasizes that the initiative aims to promote health, challenge, and a sense of community among students.