Hallasan National Park Office Urges Safe Hiking During Winter Season with Frequent Accidents

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters (Jeju) Reporter Park Chang-won] The Hallasan National Park Office of Jeju Special Self-Governing Province recently urged safe winter hiking as the risk of mountain safety accidents has increased due to heavy snowfall on Hallasan and the resulting rise in visitors.

According to the Hallasan National Park Office on the 19th, a total of 1,717 mountain accidents occurred on Hallasan as of last month (3 deaths, 17 fractures, 93 exhaustion cases, etc.).

To prevent mountain safety accidents, the Hallasan National Park Office operates first aid stations by deploying 8 safety rescue personnel at three high-altitude locations including Jindallaebat Shelter and at the entrances of each trail. Additionally, 16 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and medicine boxes have been installed at 26 key points along the Hallasan climbing routes to respond to emergencies.

Winter hiking involves severe physical exertion due to cold and snowy paths, and unpredictable weather anomalies such as heavy snow and strong winds frequently occur. Therefore, it is essential to check weather information and verify trail accessibility on the Hallasan website before hiking.

Moreover, carrying safety equipment necessary for winter hiking such as crampons and gaiters (spats), as well as winter hiking gear, is crucial to prevent accidents in advance.

During winter, sudden temperature changes can trigger cardiovascular diseases, increasing the risk of sudden cardiac arrest and cerebral hemorrhage. Hence, sufficient warm-up exercises should be done, and the head should be kept warm by wearing a winter hat.

It is also advisable to prepare high-calorie snacks like chocolate or emergency food supplies, and hikers should descend from the mountain at least two hours before sunset.

Kim Dae-geun, head of the World Heritage Headquarters, said, “Winter hiking carries a higher risk of accidents compared to other seasons, so prior preparation such as planning the hike is absolutely necessary before setting out.”