Why is Seongsan Ilchulbong called the No.1 landmark in Jeju?
On the eastern tip of Jeju Island, there stands a majestic volcanic structure that seems to rise straight out of the ocean. Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak, is not just a beautiful natural siteit's a symbol of Jeju, and a bucket-list experience for any traveler in Korea.
Watching the sun rise from its crater rim is a spiritual experience. It's quiet, humbling, and unforgettable. But beyond the famous sunrise, Seongsan Ilchulbong offers a stunning blend of geology, history, ecology, and local culture. This guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect visit.
What exactly is Seongsan Ilchulbong?
Seongsan Ilchulbong is a hydrovolcanic tuff cone formed by underwater volcanic eruptions around 5,000 years ago. The result? A massive bowl-shaped crater, 600 meters across and 180 meters high, surrounded by dramatic sea cliffs.
Its unique formation earned it a spot as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2007. It's one of the most scientifically valuable volcanic landscapes in Koreaand easily one of the most beautiful.
Official tourism site:
https://www.visitjeju.net
A sunrise worth waking up for
As the name "Ilchulbong" suggests, this is the place to see the sunrise.
Before dawn, crowds of visitors silently climb toward the crater rim, waiting for the sky to break. When the sun finally rises over the horizon, the cliffs glow, the sea sparkles, and time seems to stop.
Winter is the most popular seasonespecially during the Seongsan Sunrise Festival around New Years Day, when thousands come to welcome the first light of the year.
The experience is more than beautiful. Its emotionally powerful.
Not a hike, but a walk with a view
Dont worry if youre not an experienced hiker. The path to the top is well-maintained with wooden stairs, and the hike takes only about 50 minutes round-trip.
Along the way, youll find several viewing platforms where you can stop, catch your breath, and take in stunning vistas of Udo Island, Seopjikoji, and the Jeju coastline.
Detail Info
| Elevation | 180 meters |
| Trail length | Approx. 1 km |
| Round-trip time | 50–60 minutes |
| Difficulty | Easy |
What to bring: water, sunscreen, hat, and a windbreaker (especially before sunrise).
The views from the top:
- A giant crater blanketed in green
- 360-degree ocean panorama
- Clear views of Udo Island and Seongsan town
- Seasonal beauty: yellow rapeseed in spring, lush green in summer, crisp skies in winter
Dont miss the haenyeo (women divers) performance
Near the base of the peak, local haenyeo (female free divers) perform daily demonstrations.
They dive without oxygen tanks, harvest seafood, and showcase Jejus maritime heritage. Watching them is a rare glimpse into Koreas matriarchal coastal culture, designated as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Seafood tastings are often available afterward!
Haenyeo info:
https://www.haenyeo.go.kr
When and how to visit
- Best time: Arrive by 6 AM to catch the sunrise
- Entry fee: KRW 2,000 (Adults), KRW 1,000 (Teens)
- Payment: Credit card accepted
- Transport: 1 hour by car from Jeju City, or take Bus No. 701
Pro tip: In peak seasons, arrive before 5:30 AM to avoid crowds.
FAQ: All your questions, answered
"Is it safe to go solo?"
Yes, the trail is easy, popular, and well-lit even before sunrise.
"Can I visit Udo Island after?"
Definitely. Ferries to Udo depart from nearby Seongsan Port.
"Is drone filming allowed?"
No. Seongsan Ilchulbong is a no-drone zone to protect wildlife and visitors.
Extend your adventure: Nearby must-see spots
Place Travel Time Highlight
| Seopjikoji | 15 mins by car | Coastal walks spring flowers |
| Gwangchigi Beach | 5 mins by car | Iconic photo spot |
| Udo Island | 15 mins by ferry | Peanut ice cream bike tours |
| Local seafood spots | 10 min walk | Abalone porridge, grilled mackerel |
Final thoughts: To know Jeju, start with the sunrise
Seongsan Ilchulbong is more than a photo op.
Its a place where time slows down, where the earth meets the sky in glowing harmony.
The trail is gentle, but the emotion youll feel at the summit is monumental.
If youre choosing only one nature spot in Jeju, let it be this one.
Set your alarm. Lace up your shoes. And prepare for a morning that just might change your life.
