Evidence of a crater formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions has been discovered near (성산) Seongsan Sunrise Peak.
At a diameter of 600 meters the crater is believed to be created before Seongsan Sunrise Peak was formed.
Topographical and geological research is being conducted on the discovery and is attracting much attention.
Todd Thacker reports.

[Slug] Seongsan Sunrise Peak

This is Seongsan Sunrise Peak, a geological marvel recognized by UNESCO and designated as Korean Natural Monument No. 420.
Unlike a number of inland volcanic craters in Jeju, it was formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions.

[Slug] Underwater volcanic cone 600 meters in diameter

Some 500 meters southeast of this natural monument, evidence of a 600-meter-wide underwater volcanic cone has been located 10 meters under the surface of the ocean.

[Slug] Presence of underwater volcanic cone suggested in 2012

Back in 2012, a researcher suggested the presence of such underwater cones based on the structure and shape of Seongsan Sunrise Peak.
This recent discovery is further evidence of the existence of these kinds of volcanic formations.

[Slug] Believed to have erupted before Seongsan Sunrise Peak

The newly discovered underwater cone is thought to have erupted prior to the formation of Seongsan Sunrise Peak.

INTERVIEW
Son Yeong-gwan / Professor of Geology, Gyeongsang National University
Underwater geographical features that imply the presence of a volcanic cone have been confirmed at the location previously specified by a researcher. The findings prove the past assumption.
<인터뷰 : 손영관 / 경상대학교 지질과학과 교수>
"분화구가 위치해 있었을 것으로 추정되는 그 장소에서 분화구의 존재를 지시하는 그런 해저 지형이 관찰돼서 과거의 추정이 확인이 되었다고 말할 수 있습니다."

[Slug] Crater eroded by ocean currents

The crater is believed to be significantly eroded by ocean currents, leaving just traces of a crater and a large circular band of rock.

[Slug] Evidence of past sea levels, liquid lava flows also found

Evidence of past sea levels and liquid lava flows were also found.
The province is planning to use these findings to ramp up measures to preserve and protect Seongsan Sunrise Peak.

INTERVIEW
Kang Man-gwan / Director, Jeju World Heritage Center
We're coming up with seabed preservation plans. After the age of the newly discovered cone is determined, we will use the cone to heighten the value of Sunrise Peak.
<인터뷰 : 강만관 / 제주도 세계유산본부장>
"해저 지형에 대한 보존관리 계획을 수립하고 화산 형성 과정에 대한 연도가 나올 텐데 그런 부분은 성산일출봉에 대한 가치를 높이는데 활용하도록 하겠습니다."

[Reporter] Todd Thacker
[Camera] Kim Yong-min

Though inland topographical and geological research is widespread, little is known about the island's seabed.
This recent discovery is expected to offer important clues to understanding Jeju's past volcanic activity and its formation.
Todd Thacker, KCTV