Shanghai vs Seoul Marathon — Which Should You Run?

Compare the Shanghai and Seoul Marathons side by side — course profile, weather, field size, qualification, and atmosphere to help you choose your next race.

Quick Comparison

Feature 2026 Shanghai Marathon - Dec 6 2027 Seoul Marathon - Mar 21
Country/RegionChinaSouth Korea
MonthDecemberMarch
Avg Temperature5-12°C0-8°C
Course TypeFlatFlat
Elevation~25m~30m
Field Size30,00020,000
EntryLotteryQualifying time
World MajorNoNo
BQ CourseYesYes
Crowd SupportGoodGood
Course speedFast course (0.93)Fast course (0.92)
Race-week weather score72/10066/100

Detailed Comparison

Shanghai and Seoul are two of East Asia's big city marathons, each offering a fast, mostly flat course through a world-class metropolis. Shanghai runs on December 6, 2026 in cold, damp weather (daily mean about 8°C) on a flat course (~25m elevation) past the Bund, Nanjing Road and the former French Concession, with the Pudong skyline across the river. Seoul takes place in March (March 21 in 2027) in colder, often brisk conditions (a daily mean of about 4°C, typically 0–8°C) and a mostly flat route (~50m elevation) along the Han River.

Shanghai's 2026 full-marathon field is 30,000; Seoul's full marathon took 20,000 runners in 2026, alongside a 20,000-runner 10K. Shanghai uses a lottery. Seoul has no lottery, but full-course entry requires a qualifying time: overseas runners need a sub-5:00 (net) marathon run between January 1, 2024 and November 30, 2026. Korean domestic places for 2027 sold out within days of main registration opening on June 1, 2026; overseas registration opened on September 1, 2026, first come, first served, at US$150. Use the Pace Calculator to determine your target splits for either flat course.

Culturally, the experiences are distinct. Shanghai delivers a modern skyline spectacle — the Oriental Pearl Tower across the river from the start and the plane-tree streets of the former French Concession are visually stunning. Seoul's course along the cherry-blossom-lined Han River in early spring offers natural beauty, with the historic Gwanghwamun gate area adding cultural depth. For early-December racing in a dynamic Chinese megacity, choose Shanghai. For a spring marathon with scenic riverside running and no lottery (if you have a sub-5 time), Seoul is the smart pick.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is faster, Shanghai or Seoul Marathon?

Shanghai features a flat course while Seoul has a flat profile. The Seoul course is generally well-suited for fast times.

How do I enter the Shanghai Marathon vs Seoul Marathon?

Shanghai Marathon uses a Lottery entry system with a field of 30,000 runners. Seoul has no lottery, but overseas full-course entry requires a sub-5:00 marathon and is first come, first served (US$150); its 2026 full marathon had 20,000 spots. Plan your entry strategy using our Marathon Lottery Calculator.

What is the best weather for running, Shanghai or Seoul?

Shanghai in early December averages about 8°C (typically 5–12°C). Seoul in March averages about 4°C (typically 0–8°C). Use our Dew Point Calculator and Heat Adjustment Calculator to plan for race-day conditions.

Can I qualify for Boston at Shanghai or Seoul?

Both the Shanghai and Seoul Marathons are BQ-eligible courses. Use our Pace Calculator to determine your BQ target pace.

Which marathon has better crowd support?

Shanghai is known for good crowd support, while Seoul offers good spectator atmosphere. Both races create memorable experiences. Plan your spectator strategy with our Spectator Planner.

Prepare for Your Marathon

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