Jeju’s volcanic cones suffer from illegal camping
A Jeju resident posts photos on the Jeju provincial government website of illegal camping, Nov. 23 . Captured from the Jeju Province website
Jeju’s iconic volcanic cones, known as oreum, are increasingly suffering from damage caused by illegal campsites and campers who cook, drink and even boast about their activities on social media. The Jeju provincial government says it will strengthen crackdowns and impose fines of up to 1 million won ($770).
According to the Jeju provincial government, a resident identified as Hong recently uploaded photos to the island's online petition board, showing tourists camping at the summit of Nokkome Oreum.
Hong wrote that many visitors stay overnight without a tent by using rocks or trees for shelter, and added that some people “drink through the night and grill meat at the top.” Hong also raised concerns about the risk of wildfires and the lack of basic sanitation.
Nokkome Oreum in Aewol-eup is one of the best-known cones in western Jeju, drawing a surge of nighttime visitors in recent years thanks to its popular views.
Camping, cooking or staying overnight in unauthorized areas is illegal under the Natural Environment Conservation Act and the Forest Protection Act.
Hong said nearby areas are also being damaged. Around Jagangnokkome Oreum, hikers, bicyclists, motorcyclists and people on horseback have allegedly harmed the cypress forest and walking trails. Hong requested that the area be marked clearly with signs restricting access to pedestrians only.
Other residents echoed the complaints. One person who frequently climbed Nokkome wrote that illegal camping “has been happening for years,” recalling people blasting classical music and even practicing vocal exercises at the peak.
The resident said a complaint filed on Oct. 25 received no response. Another commenter noted that some campers openly upload photos of their stays on social media, suggesting they “may not even realize it is illegal,” and called for authorities to track down the accounts and issue fines.
Jeju's government said it will step up enforcement. A government official said camping and cooking at Nokkome Oreum are completely prohibited and added that those who violate the laws could face fines of up to 1 million won.
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.