Overview
Hallasan (漢拏山) is a mountain at 1,947m above sea level in Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, South Korea—the highest mountain in South Korea. As a shield volcano formed by volcanic activity, it features Baengnokdam crater lake at its summit. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2007.
Basic Information
| Location | Jeju-si and Seogwipo-si, Jeju Province |
|---|---|
| Height | 1,947m (Highest peak in South Korea) |
| Volcano Type | Shield volcano |
| Designation | National Park (1970), World Natural Heritage (2007) |
| Baengnokdam | Diameter 550m, Circumference 1,720m |
Geological Features
Hallasan was formed by volcanic activity from about 1.8 million years ago to several thousand years ago. Composed of basalt and trachyte, the summit's Baengnokdam is a crater lake formed when water collected in the volcanic crater.
Major Attractions
Baengnokdam
A crater lake at the summit with a diameter of about 550m and circumference of about 1.7km. On clear days, the emerald-colored water creates a spectacular view.
Yeongsil Giam
An area where fantastically shaped rocks stand like a folding screen, legendarily where immortals played. Especially beautiful during autumn foliage season.
1100 Highland
A highland wetland at 1,100m elevation, famous for winter snow scenery.
Hiking Courses
- Seongpanak Course: 9.6km, about 4.5 hours (summit access available)
- Gwaneumsa Course: 8.7km, about 5 hours (summit access available)
- Yeongsil Course: 5.8km, about 2.5 hours (to Witseoreum)
- Eorimok Course: 4.7km, about 2 hours (to Witseoreum)
Ecosystem
Hallasan is a botanical treasure displaying plant distribution from subtropical to subarctic zones. Rare plants including Korean fir, crowberry, and Hallasan edelweiss thrive here, along with wildlife such as deer and badgers.
Hiking Precautions
- Bring cold and waterproof gear due to sudden weather changes
- Entry time restrictions apply (varies by season)
- Summit visits operate on reservation system (limited capacity)