Climbing Hallasan on Jeju Island, the highest mountain in South Korea, allowed me to rediscover the joy of high-altitude hiking after a long time.

After nearly four hours of climbing from the Gwaneumsa Trailhead, the landscape changed completely. The forest opened up, revealing the striking peak of Samgakbong, whose sharp and solitary form left a deep impression on all who made their way along this mountain path.

Beneath the clear blue sky, I quietly followed the steep ascent along the outer rim of Hallasan’s volcanic crater, tracing the rugged contours of the mountain one step at a time.

As I got closer to the summit, I could see the towns of Jeju Island below and the beautiful sea stretching far into the distance.

After a six-hour hike, I finally reached Baengnokdam, the crater lake at the summit of Hallasan.

; Baengnokdam, the crater lake
; the Baengnokdam summit stone marker

When I started my way back down, clouds began to rise and gently covered the mountain. I quietly thanked Hallasan for the gift of clear skies and the unforgettable moments it had given me on this day.