This week on Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker takes a brief look at one of the province’s smaller island destinations. The 1,000-year-old Biyangdo Island is an offshore cinder cone that four years ago was designated part of the Global Geoparks Network.

Off the northeast coast of Jeju in Hallim-eup is a small, round island and cinder cone which dominates the area's ocean view.

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Hallim-eup, Jeju City

This is Biyangdo Island, a popular destination for hiking, photography, and fishing. It is home to about 100 people.

Interestingly, it is a relatively new island. It rose to a height of 114 meters above sea level during two eruptions some 1,000 years ago. These events, in the years 1002 and 1007, were recorded by historians.

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Cinder cone formed 1,000 years old

Biyangdo’s age means its shape and structure are quite well preserved. One geological formation along its north coast has attracted scientific interest.

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Lava chimney is Natural Monument No. 439

It is a 3-meter-tall lava chimney, which formed when lava flowed at high pressure through a small opening or vent. In 2004, this formation was designated Natural Monument No. 439.

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Designated a GGN site in 2014

And along with Udo Island and Seonheul Gotjawal Forest, Biyangdo was made part of the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) in 2014.

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Todd Thacker

While on Biyangdo Island, visitors can go fishing or enjoy fresh seafood dishes at one of the village’s restaurants. And be sure not to miss the unique view of the Hallim-eup coastline after a short hike to the island’s peak.

Todd Thacker KCTV