Hallasan: Jeju Island's Towering Attraction

Mount Halla or Hallasan (“san” in Korean means mountain) is an extinct volcano which stands at the center of Jeju Island. At 1,950 meters, it’s the highest peak in South Korea. Known as one of the Samshinsan (Three Mountains where God Lives), is home to alpine plants and houses more than 1800 species of plants. It also boasts of abundant natural forests and vast grasslands. Its steep cliffs and slopes together with its unusual rock formations along its valleys produces magnificent scenic views. The community of azaleas also adds to its breathtaking scenery. Because of its towering presence, Hallasan can be seen from all places on the island, but its peak is often covered in clouds. There is even a local saying stating that “Jeju Island is Hallasan; and Hallasan is Jeju”. The mountain has been designated as Korea’s Natural Monument No. 182.

Mountains of Korea

Owing to the fact that mountains occupy 80% of the land in Korea, the country is blessed with many famed peaks. Climbing these peaks have been a major tourist drawer for both local and foreign tourists. You can climb these mountains any time of the year but to most, they say that autumn is the best time because the mountains are ablazed with astonishing colours but others say that winter is the best time since you will be inspired with the breathtaking snowscape. As for me, I still have no idea. So if ever I go to Korea and get a chance to climb their famous peaks, there are three (3) mountains which stands out in my list and would love to climb, namely Seoraksan, Jirisan, and Hallasan. I guess I’ve been watching too many Korean documentaries that these three reverberates in my head whenever I hear Korean mountains.

Among my limited Korean acquaintances, when asked what they consider as the most beautiful place in Korea, they are unanimous in saying that it is Seoraksan. Located in gangwondo, it is the third highest mountain in South Korea.

Jirisan, located in the south has been considered as a sacred mountain for Koreans since time immemorial. Its name comes from a saying that a fool will be able to become wise after living on the mountain. Why this is so will still be a topic of a lengthy orientation from my Korean friend one of these days and might be a blog topic for me.

And finally, Hallasan, this is the highest mountain in South Korea and is located at the center of Jejudo. I remember seeing a picture of Hallasan in a calendar. Its imposing figure amidst the beautiful azaleas was a site to behold. According to my friends who’ve been to Jejudo, you can see Hallasan from all places in the island. Wow… that’s what you call a real stand out!!!