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| Aerial view of Hallasan showing its volcanic crater and dramatic landscape—one of Jeju’s most iconic sights |
A Mountain That Grew With Me
My first trip to Hallasan wasn’t planned—it was a school field trip when I was in 6th grade.
At that age, I remember thinking the mountain was just... tall.
The never-ending trail and the forest that surrounded it were more mysterious than beautiful.
I didn't realize then how much Hallasan would come to mean to me.
Since then, I’ve climbed it nearly 10 times—during middle school, high school, university, and even as an adult.
And while I only reached the summit once, each visit left a unique impression.
Hallasan’s Changing Faces Through the Seasons
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| Side-by-side view of Hallasan Mountain in winter and autumn, showing the stunning contrast of seasons on Korea's highest peak |
It’s a mountain that wears a new face with every season—a living gallery of nature.
- Spring brings fresh sprouts and flowers bursting through the last traces of snow
- Summer offers cool forest air and dense greenery that refreshes both body and mind
- Autumn paints the entire mountain with warm tones of orange, red, and gold
- Winter transforms Hallasan into a white, silent world—like a piece of the Alps in Korea
My Most Unforgettable Climb: New Year’s Day on the Summit
The only time I ever made it to the summit was on January 1st, the very start of a new year.
My friends and I wanted to see the sunrise from the top of Korea.
We started our hike at around 4 a.m., taking the Seongpanak Trail—headlamps on, snow falling heavily.
As we neared the summit, the wind picked up and the snow turned into a full-blown blizzard.
We were almost certain we wouldn’t see the sunrise.
But then, as if by magic, the wind stopped.
The sky opened just in time.
And through the clouds, the sun slowly rose.
That moment—after hours of cold, snow, and silence—was beyond words.
What made it even more special?
Seeing the sunrise from Hallasan’s summit on New Year’s Day is rare.
Even among locals who try every year, it’s said you might get a clear view only once every 4–5 years.
So to witness it on my first summit hike—it felt like a gift from the mountain itself.
On the way down, we greeted every climber with a cheerful “새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Happy New Year)!”
I must’ve said it to over 200 people that day.
Everyone smiled, and for a brief moment, it felt like we were all part of one big celebration on that snowy mountain.
Oh, and I can’t forget—at a rest area near the top called Witse Oreum, we had instant noodles and warm rice balls from the small shop there.
That cup of ramen, eaten in freezing cold with numb hands and happy hearts, remains one of the best meals of my life.
Hallasan: More Than Just a Mountain
In Korea, even people who’ve never been to Jeju Island know of Hallasan.
It’s not just a natural landmark—it’s a symbol.
Located in the very center of Jeju Island, Hallasan stands as Korea’s tallest mountain and a source of pride and identity.
Whether you’ve climbed it or not, Hallasan is a name every Korean grows up hearing.
And once you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why.
Final Thoughts
Hallasan has been with me through many stages of life.
It’s the backdrop to childhood curiosity, teenage challenges, and adult reflection.
Even though I’m not someone who usually enjoys hiking, I find myself returning to Hallasan again and again.
It’s not just the view at the top—it’s the memories, the people you meet on the trail, the quiet moments, the sense of awe.
If you enjoyed reading this story, why not share it with someone who's curious about Korea?
You might just inspire their next adventure.
Coming Soon
In the next post, I’ll share a complete Hallasan hiking guide—covering trail options, how to book entry, what to pack, and more.
If this post was about emotion, the next one will be all about action. Stay tuned!
This article shares a personal perspective on hiking Hallasan. For a more practical breakdown of trails and route options, you can refer to Hallasan Hiking Guide in Korea – Best Trails on Jeju Island.
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