This week on Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker takes a brief look at a volcanic formation that may be second only to Hallasan Mountain in its geological and cultural significance for Jeju islanders and indeed many domestic and international visitors: Seongsan Sunrise Peak.
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From a scientific perspective, Seongsan Sunrise Peak is an archetypal tuff cone, one which formed thousands of years ago when a volcanic eruption suddenly and violently came into contact with cold ocean waves. The steep cliffs of Ilchulbong offer geologists and volcanologists excellent opportunities to study its geological cross-sections.
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179 meters high, 600 meters in diameter
But it’s so much more than that. Some 179-meters high, its castle-like form dominates the northeastern coast of Jeju Island. Inside its concave summit, which is 600 meters in diameter, farmers once grew bamboo and other crops. Now, though, its precious geological and cultural significance is well recognized and protected.
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UNESCO World Natural Heritage site (2007)
Seongsan Sunrise Peak was designated a Natural Monument of Korea in the year 2000, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2007, and a Global Geoparks Network site in 2010.
Given its stature and domestic and international prestige, it is a popular destination for visitors, who take pictures and climb to its summit in the millions every year.
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Sunrise Festival canceled this year due to AI
Unfortunately, this year Seongsan Sunrise Peak will not be the venue for festivities related to the New Year celebration and the first sunrise of 2018. An outbreak of avian influenza on the mainland has forced organizers to cancel the Sunrise Festival in order to minimize the risk of any transmission to the local bird population and habitats.
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Todd Thacker
Though the annual festival is canceled and the fireworks and performances set aside until next year, you can still visit Jeju and its UNESCO sites… so consider putting the island on your bucket list for 2018!
Todd Thacker KCTV
