The Haenyeo is a popular sight on Jeju. There are statues of these sea sirens that dot the island’s coastline, and haenyeo merchandise is sold everywhere, depicting these fierce creatures in black wetsuits. Haenyeo are tougher than the average ajumma, but modern life is destroying their numbers. Today, only a handful of families still encourage haenyeo diving, and their numbers are shrinking.
Dol hareubang
The Dol hareubang, also called jangseung in mainland Korea, was found outside the gates of the fortress in Jeju. This stone sculpture is believed to be the embodiment of fertility, procreation, and children. The statue was originally not given the name Dol hareubang, but it was given to the statues in a joking manner after the island gained its independence. The name stuck and became popular.
These stone statues can be found in many places throughout Jeju Island. These statues are often found in entrances and shops. They are said to protect the people and ward off evil spirits. However, due to urbanization, many of these statues have been moved to different locations. In fact, you can see them outside homes, on bridges, and in front of shops.
Hallasan
Jeju Island has a lot of unique plants and animals. There are over 50 species of plants and animals, all of which have adapted to their environments in different ways over thousands of years. Hallasan Mountain, for example, is home to various animal species that have adapted to the high elevation.
The mountain, also called Hallasan, is the highest point in South Korea. It is a shield volcano, so it is often surrounded by clouds. It is also considered one of the three main mountains in South Korea. Hallasan is the highest point on the island and has a volcanic past. It is a part of the Jeju Biosphere Reserve.
Seong-Eup village
Old-fashioned homes built from thatch, lava rock, and iconic stone statues dominate the landscape in Seong-Eup village. The traditional village is a must-see if you’re in the area. It is well-known for its many festivals. Visitors can spend an entire day exploring the old-fashioned town.
Seongeup village houses showcase the traditions of Jeju. The asymmetrical pole that stands in front of the house is said to indicate that the owner is away. The village is also known for its fields of rapeseed flower. The village is an ideal destination for a wedding as the traditional wedding is held here.
Visitors can take a walk to Seopjikoji, a two-km-long coastal village with panoramic sea views. Koji in the village’s name means “piece of land protruding into the sea.” This hill is located on the Seongsan Ilchulbong mountain. Seopjikoji has been the location for several movies shot in South Korea.
Sangumburi volcanic crater
The Sangumburi volcanic crater is located in the southeast part of Jeju-si city. It has a total perimeter of 2km and is 650m wide and 100m deep. It is one of three craters on Jeju-si. Sangumburi crater is a natural monument. Sunrise park is in the center of the Mount. It is also home to rare plants and animals.
The volcanic crater’s porous rocks absorb the rain, creating a stunning waterfall. The 23-metre-high Jeongbang waterfall plunges into the sea below. Some people claim that it is the only waterfall in Asia. It’s a magnificent sight, especially during the summer monsoon.
Hallasan biosphere reserve
The Hallasan biosphere reserve in Jeju-do, South Korea, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. The park features the highest mountain in South Korea, the shield volcano Hallasan on Jeju Island. Hallasan was declared a Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations Environment Program in 2002, and was declared a national park in 2007.
Hallasan is a unique place with a crater lake and alpine plants. It contains over 368 parasitic volcanoes. It also features a UNESCO Geopark, the Manjang cave, which is eight kilometers long and filled with water. The cave was formed by cooling lava and is not suitable for claustrophobic people. Visitors to Hallasan will find a wide range of natural and manmade phenomena throughout the island, including waterfalls, Yongduam Cave, striking rock formations, and wind.