Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)

Dramatic tuff cone rising from the sea, UNESCO World Heritage site

Seongsan Ilchulbong — Sunrise Peak — is Jeju's most iconic landmark: a 182-metre tuff cone connected to the mainland of Jeju Island by a narrow isthmus, rising directly from the sea. The UNESCO World Heritage designation is well earned. The view from the summit, looking out over the flat agricultural interior of Jeju to the west and the open ocean to the east, is one of the best on the island.

The name refers to sunrise viewing — arriving before dawn to watch the sun come up over the ocean is a popular activity, particularly around the new year. The trail to the summit is steep but well paved and takes about 30–40 minutes. The grassy crater at the top is large and open. Haenyeo diving performances are sometimes staged at the base on the west face. Entry fee applies; the site can be very crowded in peak season.

things to do sight
A story
Seongsan Ilchulbong formed about 5,000 years ago from a single underwater volcanic eruption. The tuff cone — made of compacted ash and cinder rather than solid lava — is geologically distinct from the basalt flows that make up most of Jeju. The crater at the summit was once used as a communal grazing ground by villagers, and the 99 rock columns around the rim were historically called the "Castle of 99" because their count was used to tax land.