KOREA FOUNDATION

Chabak, a New Camping Trend

In the COVID-19 pandemic age, Koreans are increasingly leaving their homes behind for the outdoors as a means of both enjoying nature and complying with social distancing. In doing so, they have revolutionized camping through the birth of chabak, which literally means “sleeping in a vehicle by evenly unfolding the seats.” It is currently exceedingly popular because people can enjoy private outings and emotional rejuvenation with relatively little preparation. Its appeal is evidenced by the skyrocketing number of web searches for terms including “chabak necessities,” “chabak community,” and “recommended places for chabak.” Sales of related items, including tents and air mattresses, have also increased significantly.

The fad has also transformed Korea’s car market. More people altering or purchasing vehicles especially for chabak has ignited fierce competition among sport utility vehicle (SUV)-makers. According to the Korea Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, domestic sales of full-sized SUVs increased by 5.4% last year compared to 2020. Demand for pickup trucks and camping cars, which had been rather sluggish before the pandemic, is also rising.

To get away from it all but without the hassle of planning and preparation, try going on a chabak by starting your engine at any time and stopping wherever you want.

Camping TrendChabakprivate outingssport utility vehicleSUV