Seongsan Ilchulbong

Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as “Sunrise Peak,” is one of the most iconic natural landmarks on Jeju Island, South Korea. This volcanic tuff cone was formed by a hydrovolcanic eruption about 5,000 years ago and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising from the sea on the eastern coast of Jeju, the bowl-shaped crater and steep cliffs create a dramatic and breathtaking view, especially at sunrise. It’s a popular spot for hikers, photographers, and travelers who wish to witness one of the most beautiful sunrises in Korea.

How to Reach Seongsan Ilchulbong, Jeju

Seongsan Ilchulbong is located in Seongsan-eup, on the eastern end of Jeju Island. The peak is accessible by car, bus, or tour group from major cities like Jeju City or Seogwipo.

• By Car: From Jeju City, it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. From Seogwipo, the journey takes around 1 hour.
• By Bus: From Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal, take bus number 701 or 710 heading east and get off at the Seongsan Ilchulbong stop.
• By Tour: Many guided tours to the eastern part of Jeju include Seongsan Ilchulbong along with Udo Island or Manjanggul Cave.

Weather

The weather at Seongsan Ilchulbong is influenced by Jeju’s coastal climate and can vary depending on the season:

• Spring (March–May): Mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and clear skies, ideal for hiking and photography.
• Summer (June–August): Warm and humid, with temperatures around 25°C to 30°C. Early morning visits are best to avoid midday heat.
• Autumn (September–November): Cool and breezy, with colorful foliage in the surrounding area. One of the most popular seasons to visit.
• Winter (December–February): Chilly but usually dry. The visibility is great, and the early sunrise makes winter a good time to hike to the top.

Timing

Seongsan Ilchulbong is open year-round, but the most popular time to visit is at dawn to watch the sunrise.

Opening hours vary slightly by season:

• Summer: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Winter: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM

The last entry is generally allowed 30–60 minutes before closing time. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning (before 6:00 AM) if you want to catch the sunrise from the summit.

Why Famous for Seongsan Ilchulbong, Jeju?

Seongsan Ilchulbong is famous for its unique geological formation and spectacular sunrise views. The volcanic crater at the summit is about 600 meters in diameter and 90 meters high, surrounded by sharp cliffs on three sides and a grassy slope on the side connected to land.

The name “Ilchulbong” literally means “Sunrise Peak” because of the magical experience of watching the sun rise over the horizon from the top of the crater. It is one of the top three sunrise spots in South Korea and attracts both locals and international travelers.

In addition to its natural beauty, the area is home to the famous Jeju haenyeo (female divers), who dive without oxygen tanks and perform daily seafood-catching demonstrations near the base of the peak.

Entry and Visit Details

As of recent updates, the entrance fee to Seongsan Ilchulbong is:

• Adults: 5,000 KRW
• Youth and Children: 2,500 KRW

The hike to the top takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on your pace. The path is well-paved with stairs, making it accessible for most visitors. At the top, you’ll find a viewing platform where you can look into the crater and over the East China Sea.

Restrooms, souvenir shops, restaurants, and parking facilities are available at the base. Make sure to bring water, sunscreen, and proper walking shoes.

History and Geological Features

Seongsan Ilchulbong was formed about 5,000 years ago by hydrovolcanic activity — an eruption caused by magma interacting with seawater. Unlike many other volcanic formations on Jeju, which are lava-based, Seongsan is composed mainly of ash and tuff.

It is a prime example of a tuff cone and has been studied extensively by geologists. Due to its significance, it was designated as a Natural Monument of South Korea and later included in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage list in 2007 along with Hallasan and other volcanic sites on Jeju.

Things to Do

• Hike to the Summit: Enjoy a 20–30 minute scenic climb to the top for panoramic views and sunrise experiences.
• Watch Haenyeo Performances: Female divers perform live demonstrations and sell freshly caught seafood at the base of the peak.
• Visit the Seongsan Village: Explore nearby traditional houses, eateries, and cafes.
• Take Photos: The landscape is stunning, especially in the early morning light or when covered in spring flowers or autumn leaves.
• Take a Ferry to Udo Island: The nearby Udo Island is just a short ferry ride away and makes a perfect day-trip pairing.

Facts and Tips

• Seongsan Ilchulbong is 182 meters high and offers 360° views of Jeju’s eastern coastline.
• UNESCO designated it a World Natural Heritage site in 2007 for its geological significance.
• There are over 200 different types of plants found around the crater slopes.
• The area is safe and family-friendly, though the stairs to the summit can be steep in parts.
• Sunrise times vary by season — check in advance and plan to arrive 30–40 minutes early.
• Bring a flashlight if you plan to hike before dawn. The trail has some lights, but not in all sections.
• Visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the view — fog and mist can obstruct the crater in poor weather.

Conclusion

Seongsan Ilchulbong is more than just a mountain — it’s a natural amphitheater that showcases the raw beauty of Jeju’s volcanic history. Whether you climb for the sunrise or simply enjoy the sea breeze from the base, this UNESCO landmark offers a deeply memorable experience. Its combination of natural wonder, cultural heritage, and accessible adventure makes Seongsan Ilchulbong a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Jeju Island.