• Rubi Reyes •
• Originally published January 23, 2009 at 1:52 a.m., updated January 23, 2009 at 1:52 a.m.

In eight years, Okhwan Yoon has visited 169 countries on his bicycle.

The South Korean gave up his clothing trading company after saving up money to embark on his journey to promote world peace.

He is now touring the world on his fifth bike and travels about 200 miles a day, Yoon said. He came through Victoria on Thursday.

"I was curious about the tension and conflict in Korea and other countries, so I decided to visit each nation and town of the world," the 47-year-old said.

He has made friends and learned many languages throughout his journey. However, his journey has not gone without illness and injury.

"I have contracted malaria about four times while I was in Africa," Yoon said. "I have also been hit by cars and needed several operations."

Even though he has been robbed and attacked at knife-point, he said he still believes there can be world peace.

"I know it will take a long time for there to be peace, but if we all make an effort it can be reached," Yoon said.

He stays in youth hostels, motels and on occasion will sleep outside.

"I usually have somewhere to stay, but I sometimes have to sleep outside on the floor," Yoon said. "I don't carry a tent."

On Thursday he came through Victoria on his way to Houston, where he will stay with a Korean group that has housed him before, he said.

Yoon's journey is possible with the assistance of friends and people he meets along the way. He has earned $3,000 by giving speeches about his journey in various countries.

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