Jeju Island, South Korea: Geography, Culture, and Tourism

Geography and Climate

• Located off the southern coast of South Korea
• Largest island in Korea, covering an area of 1,846 km²
• Volcanic island, dominated by Hallasan, a dormant volcano and the highest peak in South Korea (1,950m)
• Climate: subtropical, with mild winters and warm summers
• Known for its natural beauty, with lush green countryside, waterfalls, and black sand beaches

Tourism and Economy

• Popular tourist destination, attracting over 15 million visitors annually
• Known for its natural wonders, including:
  • Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Manjanggul Lava Tube, the world's longest lava tube
  • O'Sulloc Tea Museum, showcasing Jeju's famous green tea
• Economy driven by:
  • Tourism
  • Agriculture (tea, citrus fruits, and seafood)
  • Fishing industry

History and Culture

• First inhabited in the Stone Age
• Historical significance as a gateway to the Korean Peninsula
• Home to a unique cultural heritage, with a distinct dialect and customs
• Famous for its female divers, known as "haenyeo," who have been diving for seafood for centuries

UNESCO Designations

• Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, recognizing its natural and cultural significance
• Three sites designated as UNESCO Global Geoparks: Jeju Island, Seogwipo, and Seongsan Ilchulbong