Beauty and the beast: Climbing Hallasan Mountain in winter

There are definitely some challenges involved in scaling Korea’s highest mountain (1,950m) in the winter. The snow, ice and quickly changing weather conditions can throw a wrench into even the best planned journey.

This being an island, once you’re up on the slopes of the mountain, you’re always within sight and cell service of the main urban centers (Jeju and Seogwipo cities). This can instill one with a false sense of security.

Once you’re up there, it’s clearly a very remote location. So preparation is key.

Tips on Winter Hiking

"Getting to the top is optional, getting down is mandatory." 
Mountaineer Ed Viesturs

Some excellent food for thought before heading up Hallasan Mountain can be found at this site. (Wearing layers and bringing an experienced friend are two key pieces of advice.) Of course, knowledge is power, so please do your due diligence. Your mileage may vary.

But once you’re there, it’s incredibly beautiful scenery. The journey to the top, too, brings with it a sense of accomplishment and comraderie. If you’re fit enough for the 8 or so hour round trip, it’s really a must-do destination to put on a Jeju bucketlist.

Please enjoy these shots taken very recently by an (intrepid) JTO staff member.

All photos by O.C.H.