Jeju Island: Where nature’s beauty unfolds in every corner, from lush forests to serene beaches.

Jeju Island, located in the southern part of South Korea, is the largest island in the country and is administratively part of Jeju Special Self-Governing Province. Covering an area of ​​1,846 square kilometers, it accounts for 1.83% of South Korea’s total land area. As of 2020, the registered population is approximately 670,000, making it the most populous island in South Korea.

Shaped like an oval, Jeju Island is characterized by gentle slopes centered around Hallasan, a central mountain. It stretches 73 kilometers from east to west and 31 kilometers from north to south. The island’s circular perimeter road measures 181 kilometers, while its coastline spans 258 kilometers. Kimnyeong Beach marks the northern tip, while Songaksan sits at the southern end. Suwolbong is on the western edge, and Seongsan Ilchulbong is on the eastern tip. Jeju Island has a temperate climate, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing even in winter. Positioned at the boundary of the Yellow Sea, East Sea, and South China Sea, Jeju Island holds strategic importance not only politically and economically but also militarily for South Korea.

In December 2002, UNESCO recognized Jeju Island’s ecological value in terms of climate and biodiversity, designating it as a Biosphere Reserve. Recognizing the academic, cultural, tourism, and ecological significance of landmarks such as Hallasan, Seongsan Ilchulbong, and the Geomunoreum Lava Tube System, they were registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site under the name “Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes” in June 2007. On October 3, 2010, the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network (GGN) certified Jeju Island as a Global Geopark.


History

Jeju Island, separated and established as an independent administrative region from Jeolla Province on August 1, 1946, is a volcanic island formed as a result of volcanic activity spanning from the late Pliocene of the Neogene period to the Pleistocene of the Quaternary period. Essentially, Jeju Island was formed by various volcanic activities over the course of the late Pliocene, forming basalts that erupted from the sea, and subsequent continuous volcanic activity during the Pleistocene (1.2 million years ago to 25,000 years ago), resulting in sedimentary layers such as the Seongsan Formation, Hwasun Formation, and Sinyangri Formation, and volcanic rocks such as basalt, tuff, andesite, and tuff breccia, as well as various volcanic ejecta formed by post-volcanic activity. The volcanic activity in Jeju is broadly divided into five eruption stages, with over 110 confirmed lava eruptions occurring.

Legends

Jeju Island is steeped in various myths and legends surrounding its birth, with one of the most representative being the legend of Seolmundae Halmang. Here are some myths related to this:

  • Seolmundae Halmang: A colossal goddess believed to have created Jeju Island.
  • Sanbangsan: While Jeju locals claim it was originally at the summit of Hallasan, it is actually a separate volcanic cone formed by its own volcanic activity.
  • Yeongsilgi-am: One of the ten scenic spots in Yeongsu, known for its rock formations. It is also called “Ohbaek Janggun,” said to be Seolmundae Halmang’s 500th child.
  • Udo: A utopian island depicted in Jeju’s legends, and in the 1990s, it was claimed by some Jeju residents to be the current Udo.
  • Baekrokdam: A crater lake formed by the volcanic activity of Hallasan in Jeju.
  • Yongduam: A rock formation in Jeju City on the coast, formed by solidified lava, with about 40 meters of rock forming a dragon-like shape, including the part submerged in the sea.
  • Samsunghyeol: A place believed to be where the three gods, Yang-eul-na, Go-eul-na, and Bu-eul-na, emerged. Additionally, Seongsan Ilchulbong on Jeju Island was designated as Natural Monument No. 420 on July 18, 2000.

Names

Jeju Island has been known by various names throughout history:

  • Doi (島夷): This was one of the earliest names for Jeju, meaning “Island Barbarian.”
  • Dongyeongju (東瀛州): Another historical name, which translates to “Eastern Land Province.”
  • Juho (州胡): Referring to it as a “Province” with an unclear meaning for “Ho.”
  • Tammora (耽牟羅): An ancient name used for Jeju Island.
  • Seopra (涉羅): Another historical name, the meaning of which is not entirely clear.
  • Tagra (乇羅): Yet another historical name for Jeju Island.
  • Tamna (耽羅): This name was widely used in ancient times.
  • Quelpart or Quelpaert: During the Japanese colonial era before 1910, Jeju Island was known as Quelpart in the West. Quelpart or Quelpaert Island is derived from the name of a Dutch ship, the Quelpart.
  • Samdado (三多島): Meaning “Island of Three Abundances” due to its abundance of wind, women, and stones.
  • Sammudo (三無島): Meaning “Island of Three Lacks” due to its lack of thieves, beggars, and gates.


Geology

Jeju Island is composed of sedimentary rocks from the Seogwipo Formation in the late Pleistocene Epoch (third period) and volcanic rocks such as the Seongsan Formation and Hwasun Formation in the fourth period. It also includes volcanic rocks like basalt, andesite, and tuffaceous rocks like hyunmoo basalt, pyroclastic rocks from parasitic volcanoes, and more. The volcanic activity on the island is divided into five major eruptions, with over 79 lava eruptions observed.

Particularly, the hyunmoo basalt, covering over 90% of the island, displays a phenomenon called “seokda” or “abundance of stones” in Korean. This type of basalt is characterized by many holes, stickiness, and a black color, and is widely used in buildings and walls. There are around 360 parasitic volcanoes on the island, formed during the Seongsan and Hwasun periods and classified as products of the last eruption phase, known as the fifth eruption period.

Along the southern coast, visitors can observe the columnar joints formed when lava meets the sea, creating hexagonal basalt formations known as “jusangjeolridae.” The depth of magma sources for the fourth period volcanic rocks in Jeju Island is estimated to be around 150 to 250 kilometers.


Groundwater

Jeju Island’s geology is mainly composed of basaltic hyunmoo rocks, along with other formations like tuffaceous rocks, andesite, and sedimentary rocks. The groundwater in Jeju Island comes from rainwater that seeps into the ground and flows downward until it reaches impermeable layers (dense rocks and clay layers) where it cannot penetrate further. It either remains stored there or continues to flow horizontally, eventually emerging along the coast.

There are over 185 natural springs along the coastline of Jeju Island. Research on groundwater indicates that, except for the eastern region of the island, most of the groundwater appears to originate from the same source.

Climate

Jeju Island, located at the southernmost tip of South Korea and influenced by warm ocean currents, has a temperate climate. It remains warm throughout the year, with an average annual temperature of 16.2°C in Jeju City. The coldest month, January, has an average temperature of 6.1°C, while the warmest month, August, averages 27.2°C. In Seogwipo City, temperatures are slightly higher, with an average annual temperature of 16.9°C. January averages 7.2°C, and August averages 27.2°C. Jeju experiences the smallest temperature difference between seasons in Korea, showing a maritime climate.

The island receives significant rainfall, with the northern region getting 1,500 to 1,600mm annually, and the southern region receiving even more, between 1,600 and 1,800mm, making it one of the rainiest places in South Korea. Snowfall is minimal along the coastal lowlands below 200m, often melting quickly, but areas around Mount Hallasan, which is over 1,000m high, receive substantial snowfall, with snow sometimes lingering until May.

Known as “Pungda” (windy), Jeju Island experiences strong winds year-round. During winter, winds often exceed 10 meters per second, with frequent gusts exceeding 20 meters per second. Even outside of winter, the island serves as a path for typhoons and low-pressure systems, resulting in frequent windy conditions that can sometimes disrupt land transportation.

Global Geopark

In October 3, 2010, during the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network (GGN) Operational Meeting held on the Greek island of Lesvos, Jeju Island’s nine geological sites (including three UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites – Hallasan Mountain, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, and Manjanggul Cave – and six other areas – Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, Seogwipo Formation, Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff, Sanbangsan Mountain, Yongmeori Coast, and Suwolbong Peak) were evaluated and approved as Global Geoparks after a thorough assessment and review process. Additionally, in 2014, three more sites, Udo Island, Biyangdo Island, and Seonheulgotjawal, were designated as representative sites.

Recognized for its UNESCO World Natural Heritage value and as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Jeju Island’s entire landmass has been acknowledged as a Global Geopark, with 12 sites, including Hallasan Mountain, being particularly noteworthy as prominent geological attractions.

Tourism

  • Jungmun Tourist Complex – A major resort area with hotels, golf courses, and beautiful beaches.
  • Cheonjiyeon Waterfall – A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a tranquil stroll.
  • Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff – Unique columnar joint formations created by lava flow, offering stunning coastal views.
  • Teddy Bear Museum – A delightful museum featuring various teddy bear exhibits, fun for both kids and adults.
  • Believe It or Not Museum – An intriguing museum showcasing bizarre and extraordinary artifacts and phenomena.
  • Yeomiji Botanical Garden – A vast botanical garden housing a wide variety of plant species from around the world.
  • Jeju Glass Museum – Showcases exquisite glass art pieces created by local artists.
  • Osulloc Tea Museum – Learn about the history and culture of tea in Korea while enjoying scenic views of green tea fields.
  • African Museum – Offers insights into African culture, art, and traditions.
  • Hallasan National Park – Home to Hallasan, Korea’s highest mountain, offering hiking trails and breathtaking vistas.
  • Sangumburi Crater – A dormant volcanic crater with a beautiful grassy basin, perfect for a leisurely walk.
  • Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak – A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning sunrise views and unique crater shape.
  • Cheonjiyeon Waterfall – A picturesque waterfall known for its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings.
  • Jeongbang Waterfall – One of the few waterfalls in the world that flows directly into the sea, offering breathtaking views.
  • Eongtto Waterfall – A hidden gem in the forest, providing a tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery.
  • Mulyeongari Oreum – A volcanic cone offering panoramic views of the island, perfect for hiking and exploration.
  • Suwolbong Peak – A scenic peak boasting stunning views of the ocean and coastline, popular for hiking and photography.
  • Sanbangsan – A unique geological formation with a distinctive peak, offering hiking trails and panoramic views.
  • Yongduam Rock – A dragon-shaped volcanic rock formation by the sea, shrouded in local legend and folklore.
  • Manjanggul Cave – One of the largest lava tubes in the world, showcasing fascinating geological formations.
  • Seopjikoji – A picturesque cape offering stunning coastal views and scenic walking trails.
  • Soesokkak Estuary – A beautiful estuary surrounded by cliffs, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and exploration.
  • Saryeoni Forest Path – A serene walking trail through a lush forest, ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
  • Nexon Computer Museum – A unique museum showcasing the evolution of computers and technology.
  • Oedolgae Rock – A solitary sea stack rising from the ocean, offering panoramic views of the coastline.
  • Bijarim Forest – A dense forest of ancient nutmeg trees, providing a peaceful escape into nature.
  • Jeju Shinhwa World – A popular theme park offering a variety of attractions, entertainment, and dining options.
  • Jeolmul Natural Forest Resort – A tranquil forest retreat offering hiking trails, streams, and scenic picnic spots.
  • Jeju Mini Land – A miniature theme park featuring replicas of famous landmarks from around the world.
  • Maze Land – A fun-filled maze park offering various maze designs and activities for all ages.
  • Kimnyoung Maze Park – A maze park with themed pathways and beautiful gardens, perfect for families.
  • Jeju Kkongdon Eco Park – An eco-friendly park featuring various activities and exhibits related to nature and conservation.
  • Museum of Sex and Health – A unique museum exploring the history, culture, and science of human sexuality and health.

Foods

  • Black Pork BBQ – Succulent pork from Jeju’s famous black pigs, grilled to perfection for a delicious meal.
  • Dome Bulgogi – Thinly sliced beef marinated in a savory sauce, cooked on a dome-shaped grill for a mouthwatering experience.
  • Grilled Sea Bream – Fresh sea bream grilled to perfection, offering a taste of Jeju’s pristine waters.
  • Abalone Porridge – A comforting porridge made with tender abalone pieces, perfect for a hearty breakfast or a soothing meal.
  • Clam Porridge – A flavorful porridge made with fresh clams, offering a taste of the sea in every spoonful.
  • Jeju Tangerines – Juicy and sweet tangerines grown in Jeju’s fertile soil, a refreshing treat and a must-try local specialty.
  • Meat Noodles (Gogi Guksu) – Noodles served in a rich and flavorful meat broth, topped with tender slices of meat.
  • SuAe – A traditional Jeju drink made from fermented grains, known for its unique flavor and health benefits.
  • Bingtteok (Korean Rice Cake) – Soft and chewy rice cakes served with sweet red bean paste, a popular dessert in Jeju.
  • Sea Urchin Seaweed Soup – A hearty soup made with fresh sea urchin and nutrient-rich seaweed, offering a taste of the ocean.