Seongsan Ilchulbong

Overview

Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as "Sunrise Peak," is an archetypal tuff cone formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions upon a shallow seabed about 5,000 years ago. Rising 182 meters above sea level, it features a massive bowl-shaped crater and dramatic vertical cliffs. Its name "Seongsan" means "Castle Mountain" due to its fortress-like appearance, and it was designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2007.

History

The peak was originally a separate island, but over thousands of years, the accumulation of sand and gravel created a land bridge (tombolo) connecting it to the main Jeju Island. Historically, it has been a sacred site for the "Seongsan Sunrise Festival" and also holds scars of World War II, as the Japanese military dug 24 artificial caves into its coastal cliffs to hide explosives and boats toward the end of the war.

Things to see

Geological wonders and coastal views:

• The **Giant Crater**: A vast, meadow-filled basin spanning about 264,000 square meters at the summit, surrounded by 99 jagged rock peaks.

• The **Jagged Rock Formations**: Unique vertical stone pillars along the trail that resemble various characters and animals from local legends.

• The **Haenyeo (Women Divers) Performance**: Observe traditional Jeju women divers demonstrating their diving skills at the coastal area near the base (Scheduled daily at 13:30 and 15:00).

Things to do

Hiking and cultural experiences:

• Experience the **Sunrise Hike**: Climb the well-maintained steps (approx. 20–30 min) to witness the sun rising over the East Sea, a spectacle considered one of the top views in Korea.

• Take the **Free Coastal Path**: If you prefer not to hike to the summit, follow the free trail to the left of the entrance for stunning views of the cliffs and Udo Island.

• Try **Fresh Seafood**: Visit the 'Haenyeo House' at the bottom of the cliff to taste freshly caught seafood served by the women divers themselves.