This week on Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker profiles a Jeju site that locals know well, but perhaps is underappreciated by visitors. Songaksan Mountain, which is along Jeju Olle walking trail No. 10, is rich in sights, sounds, and scenery.



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Some of Jeju Island’s geological features are pretty dramatic and hard to miss. Others are just as important, but take a bit more time and effort to discover and appreciate.

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Sangmo-ri, Daejeong-eup

One such formation is Songaksan Mountain, a parasitic volcanic cone in Sangmo-ri, Daejeong-eup, Seogwipo.

This volcanic formation actually has a double crater ? one 500 meters and the other 400 meters in diameter. It might be dwarfed by the nearby towering features of Sanbangsan, but this mountain, too, has a number of distinctive features, including 99 peaks.

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90-minute round trip hike

Visitors to Songaksan will be pleasantly surprised by the lovely panoramas. The hike to and from the location takes about 90 minutes, along which you’ll be accompanied by a number of offshore islands, like Marado and Gapado.

There are also a good set of facilities, such as conveniently located coffee shops, restaurants, and ample parking for cars and buses.

Korea’s recent history, of course, has touched the site. There are remnants of the Japanese occupation ? in particular a World War 2 aircraft hangar and runway.

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Jeju Olle course 10 passes through Songaksan

The walk is along Jeju Olle trail No. 10, which starts at Hwasun Golden Sand Beach and ends at Moseulpo Harbor. This is a particularly rich hike in terms of scenery and history. It’s an excellent picnic area as well.

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Todd Thacker

Songaksan might not have the up-front attractions of say Hallasan Mountain or Seongsan Sunrise Peak, but people in the know treasure this hidden gem.

Todd Thacker KCTV