Introduction
Numerous beaches, tumbling waterfalls, volcanic crags and a warmer climate than the mainland have all helped to make Jeju Island the country's most popular holiday spot, particularly among Korean honeymooners.
Seongsan Ilchulbong (‘sunrise peak'), a verdant 182-metre-high caldera on the easternmost tip of the island is especially enchanting in the glow of dawn and can be combined with a boat trip to nearby Udo Island, known for its black rocks and coral white sand. Also in the east of the island is the Seongeup Folk Village, a throng of Confucian shrines, stone monuments and traditional houses set around centuries-old zelkova and nettle trees.
While travelling around Jeju you may also see harubang, mushroom-like ‘grandfather statues'. Said to provide protection and aid fertility, these have become recognisable as the symbol of Jeju. Replicas are frequently sold in markets and gift shops and make popular souvenirs.