Jeju

Overview

Off the southern tip of Korea, Jeju was formed by volcanism and was inscribed as Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes in 2007. Hallasan in the centre reaches 1,947 metres, the highest in Korea; Seongsan Ilchulbong is the emblematic crater on the coast, and Manjanggul is a lava tube over ten kilometres long. Jeongbang falls, the columnar joint cliffs and Udo island line the coast, and the climate is mild all year.

History

Formed by volcanic activity some two million years ago and long culturally distinct from the mainland, it became a special self-governing province in 2006 and was inscribed in 2007.

Highlights

• •The Seongsan Ilchulbong crater
• •The Manjanggul lava tube
• •Hallasan National Park
• •Jeongbang falls and the columnar joints

Practical tips

• •Public transport is limited; a car is much easier
• •The coast is windy — take care on the rocks

Practical information

Best time

April-June, September-October

Tickets

Most natural sites are free

Opening hours

All day

Local food

Jeju black pork, seafood stew, tangerines

Getting around

About an hour by air from Seoul, or three hours by ferry from Busan.

Visa

A visa is required; apply about a month in advance.

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