VISIT JEJU

Geomun Oreum rises to a height of 456 meters above sea level with a circumference of 4,551 meters, and has given birth to a series of lava tube caves. The cone appears quite dark due to the dense forest growing on it, hence the name, which translates to "Black Volcanic Cone." It is unique among Jeju’s many oreum in that it alone is registered as a UNESCO natural World Heritage site, thanks to the high geological value of the volcanic landforms and caves created by lava flowing northeast from Geomun Oreum to the coast. According to research by the Jeju Natural Heritage Center, the caves around Seonheul-ri Geomun Oreum in Seonheul-ri are of a very large scale for lava caves, considered to be world class.

The northeast slope forms a horseshoe-shaped cone, with the volcanic crater that created the system of lave tube caves visible from the summit, along with several small peaks rising within that crater. The surrounding area is home to a wide range of volcanic landforms, such as lava caves, scoria, collapsed lava pits, vertical caves, and wind holes, along with groves of spotted laurel and star anise trees. The site is also of historical interest due to the presence of several Japanese military facilities dating back to World War II, such as bunkers and supply roads.

Since its inscription as a natural World Heritage site, all trekking and hiking in the area is carried out by reservation only; however, the exhibition gallery and natural heritage exhibition hall located in the visitor center may be visited without a reservation, except on Tuesdays. The 4D theater requires advance reservation by groups of 10 or more. Phone and online reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis starting from the 1st of the month prior to the desired visiting time, with same-day reservations not allowed (for example, reservations for May 10 would open starting on April 1).

Visitors must arrive 10 minutes before their reservation time to undergo ticketing and registration; an access pass must be obtained at the visitor center, and all guidance and regulations must be followed throughout the visit. Entry is prohibited when wearing slippers or high heels, and no food may be carried in other than emergency rations. There are no restroom facilities available while hiking Geomun Oreum, so it’s a good idea to use the restroom before embarking on your journey.

Admission is 2,000 KRW for adults and 1,000 KRW for children, youth, and military personnel. The admission fee is exempted for children under 6 years of age, seniors over 65 years of age, welfare recipients, people with disabilities, order of merit recipients and their families, and veterans.

[Geomun Oreum Trails]

• Summit Course: approximately 2.1 km (approximately 1 hour)

• Crater Course: approximately 5 km (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes)

• Full Course: approximately 6.7 km (approximately 3 hours 30 minutes)