Hallasan (Mt. Halla), at 1,947m, is South Korea's highest peak and the iconic shield volcano at the heart of Jeju Island. Its summit holds the crater lake Baengnokdam, and the whole mountain is a national park as well as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. Vertical vegetation zones ranging from subtropical to alpine, plus striking seasonal scenery, draw hikers year-round.
Baengnokdam, the summit crater lake, with sweeping views over Jeju
High-altitude flora such as royal azalea fields and Korean fir groves along the Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa trails
Distinct seasonal scenery: winter snow and rime ice, spring azaleas, autumn foliage
The Obaeknahan ("500 Generals") rock spires and Byeongpungbawi cliffs on the Yeongsil trail
Gentler lower trails such as Eorimok and Yeongsil for those not aiming for the summit
Good to know
RulesThe two summit routes to Baengnokdam (Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa) require an advance booking through the official reservation system (visithalla.jeju.go.kr); your ID is checked at entry.
RulesEach trail has a seasonal entry cutoff time (for summit routes usually late morning); you cannot start after it. Plan to descend before sunset.
SeasonIn winter (roughly late November to March) snow and ice make crampons effectively mandatory; hiking without them is dangerous and may be barred.
SafetyWeather near the summit changes fast and differs greatly from the towns. Strong wind, fog or storms often trigger full or partial trail closures, so check same-day weather and closure status.
SafetyThe summit hike is long (about 19km round trip via Seongpanak, 4-5 hours one way). Carry enough water, food and warm layers, and pace yourself.
RulesCooking, camping and smoking are prohibited in the park, and you must stay on marked trails. Carry all trash back out.
Practical info
Entry opens around 5-6am depending on season, with summit-route cutoffs in the morning (typically around 11:30). Park admission is free, though parking is charged; Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa are reachable by bus from central Jeju. Confirm current fees, hours and closures on the official reservation site before you go.
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Sources · Hallasan Reservation System (Jeju Provincial Govt) visithalla.jeju.go.kr · Hallasan National Park jeju.go.kr/hallasan · VisitKorea (Korea Tourism Organization) visitkorea.or.kr · UNESCO World Heritage / Biosphere Reserve
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