A Personal Journey in Jeju Island: Paradise On Earth 

I had always heard about Jeju Island- being enriched with many natural phenomena- besieged with clean and pristine beaches, enclaved with many volcanic landscapes, and full of cultural fortune. Never in my wildest dreams, I had ever thought that all the places I had ever visited so far were nowhere near the experience I got from that single Island of my country. It is indeed one of the best places to be endowed fully with nature in South Korea. Jeju Island is South Korea’s largest island, covering an area of 1,833.2 km2 (707.8 sq mi), which is 1.83% of the total area of the country (Wikipedia- The Free Encyclopedia, 2024). 

Arriving at Jeju: A Warm Welcome 

Descending into Jeju International Airport was a prelude to what lay ahead. I looked out of the plane window, and there it was- the shimmering coastline, vast green fields, and the silhouette of Hallasan Mountain standing proudly against the sky. As I stepped out of the plane, a warm breeze carrying the smell of ocean mixed with the smell of pine welcomed me. I instantly felt a sense of tranquility-a great beginning for my journey. 

 

Conquering Hallasan: A hike to remember 

Since it was early in the morning, I left my luggage in the reception and directly headed towards Hallasan National Park. I began the ascent along the Seongpanak Trail. The trees in these trails show the path towards the summit. The cold air buzzing through made me more excited than ever. Indeed, the climbing was not only tiring but also challenging, but it was worth it. The crater lake at the summit was a sight to behold- its surface reflecting the sky like a mirror. I was mesmerized by its beauty and sat there for almost like an hour. It was a moment of pure peace, feeling both small and infinite at the same time.

 

Geomunooreum Lava Tube System: UNESCO World Heritage Site

The next day, I went to visit the infamous Lava Tube System of Jeju Island. It was totally an experience that felt very unreal. The temperature outside the Manjanggul Cave-part of Geomunooreum-was around 35 degrees Celsius on that particular day. As soon as we entered the cave temperature fell to less than 0 degrees Celsius. Not only that but also each part of the cave has important geological features. The Geomunoreum Lava Tube System is part of the Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007 due to its unique geological formations and outstanding universal value (UNESCO,2023).

A Taste of Jeju: The Local Flavors

Of course, this trip wouldn't be complete without indulging in local foods. Haemul Dukbaegi(Seafood Hotpot) was one of the best in the whole of Korea. Why wouldn't it be the best since most of these fishes were captured by legendary female divers of Jeju-follow the old tradition of capturing through diving under sea. Also, savored fresh abalone, caught by Haenyeo themselves, and tangerine-flavored treats made from island citrus fruits. Each meal was an adventure for me, telling the story of the island long standing culture.

Reflecting On My Journey!

As time came to an end, I felt a sense of contentment. I came here to visit an Island situated at the bottom part of Korea but it gave me a touch of beauty, peace, and adventure. The memory that will always stay alive within me. Leaving was bitter-sweet of an experience, but I knew that the memories I made- from the summit of Hallasan to the depths of Manjangul Cave- would stay with me forever.