Volcanic Cone Geomunoreum
By Shim Hyun-chul
Staff Reporter
The deeper in you walk, the more tangible the feel of the earth's breath. The clear air stimulates a visitor's senses. The cozy and refreshing air continues until you walk out.
Jeju Island is a volcanic outcrop created from eruptions 2 million years ago. Ash and lava shaped the island, just like a potter would a masterpiece.
With Mt. Halla, at 1,950 meters, situated in the middle, Jeju is surrounded by smaller parasitic volcanoes formed when lava was unable to escape the main cone. The countless number, along with the many mountains, caves and valleys, bring out the mystical beauty of Jeju.
``Oreum'' is the name Jeju residents ascribe to parasitic volcanoes in the local dialect, and the most famous is the Geomunoreum lava tube system, which stretches from Seonheul-ri to Deokcheon-ri covering about 22.367 square kilometers. It is a UNESCO-designated site of natural heritage.
Surprisingly well preserved, the lava cave that connects Geomeunoreum and the coast is one of the biggest. It is comprised of seven lava tubes: Seonheulsujikg, Bengduigul, Bukoruemgul, Daelimgul, Yongcheongul, Dangcheomulgul and Manjanggul. Currently, only parts of Manjanggul lava tube are open to the public.
Geomuneoreum is designated as National Monument No.444, and is also called ``Geomulchang'' by local residents.
The peaks of the parasitic volcanoes contain craters from where lava and volcanic gases erupted. The craters are horseshoe-shaped, probably because the mountain's northeastern section collapsed due to the heavy lava flow. On the lower slopes, visitors can find a number of valleys. Geomuneoreum also has ``wind holes,'' through which rainwater flows that is used by Jeju residents. Winds are strangely warm in winter and cool in summer on Geomuneoreum where diverse and distinctive flora and fauna can be found.
Bare in the past, Geomuneoreum is now covered with Japanese cedar trees that scenically block the strong Jeju winds. But some argue that the trees stunt the growth of others and should be cut down. Mines that were made by Japanese soldiers during the Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945) can also be found.
From July 18 to Aug. 16, the 2009 Geomuneoreum International Trekking Competition will be held, introducing new trekking routes. The competition route is 8 kilometers long and will take about four hours, while the two new trails include one that traces the horseshoe-shaped crater and the nine peaks.
The Geomuneoreum Tour ― a three-hour tour with a guide ― should be reserved two days in advance,. For reservations, visit https://jejuwnh.jeju.go.kr or call (064) 750-2514.