[theList] The Best Mountains Chosen by the 'Nation of Hiking'... Not Jirisan or Hallasan

Favorite Mountain No.1 is 'Seoraksan'
Followed by Jirisan, Bukhansan, Hallasan, and Naejangsan

For Koreans, hiking is not just a hobby but a way of life. With about 70% of the land covered by mountains and the changing scenery each season, everyone is encouraged to go hiking.

78.3% of all adult men and women hike or experience forest trails at least once a month. This is the result of the "2022 Survey on Hiking and Forest Trail Experience Status and Awareness," conducted by the Korea Forest Service on 1,800 men and women aged 19 to 79.

So, which mountain do Koreans like the most? Many mountains are considered famous, but based on the Korea Forest Service’s survey, we have ranked the mountains most loved by the "hiking nation."

5th Place: Naejangsan

Photo by Yonhap News

Naejangsan is located in Jeongeup City, Jeollabuk-do, and stands 763 meters tall. It is called Naejangsan, meaning "inner storage mountain," because it is said to hold countless hidden treasures within.

Its autumn foliage is beautiful and was selected as one of the Eight Scenic Views of Joseon. Located in the southern inland, Naejangsan enjoys long hours of sunlight, which makes its autumn leaves vividly red and splendid. The maple tunnel path with 108 trees on both sides from Naejangsan Iljumun Gate to Naejangsa Temple is known as the best among Naejangsan’s autumn foliage.

Especially, the most beautiful and magnificent maple tree in Naejangsan is the one in Geumseon Valley, designated as Natural Monument No. 563 by the government. This tree was designated a natural monument in August last year, and its age is estimated to be about 290 years.

4th Place: Hallasan

Photo by Yonhap News

Hallasan is a 1,950-meter-high mountain and the tallest mountain in South Korea. It is an active volcano located in Seogwipo City, Jeju Island. It was designated as a national park in 1970 and was registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2007, reflecting its high value.

At the summit lies Baengnokdam, a crater lake about 3 km in circumference and 500 meters in diameter. Unlike other mountains famous for flowers or autumn leaves, Hallasan is renowned for its snowy scenery. Due to its popularity, a climbing reservation is essential to see Baengnokdam covered in snow.

3rd Place: Bukhansan

Photo by Pixabay

Bukhansan, despite its name, is located on the border between northern Seoul and Goyang City, Gyeonggi-do. The name was given during the late Joseon period because it lies north of the Han River. It is one of Korea’s five great mountains, along with Baekdusan, Jirisan, Geumgangsan, and Myohyangsan.

From the main peak Baegundae, you can see Seoul city and its suburbs at a glance, as well as Bukaksan, Namsan, and on clear days, islands in the Yellow Sea such as Ganghwado and Yeongjongdo.

Bukhansan has also been historically significant. King Jinheung of Silla erected the "Jinheungwang Sunsubi" monument on Bukhansan to commemorate securing the Han River basin. During King Sukjong’s reign in Joseon, Bukhansanseong Fortress and a temporary palace were built along the mountain ridge, making it a strategic stronghold.

2nd Place: Jirisan

[Image source=Pixabay]

Jirisan is the southern mountain of the five sacred mountains of Silla and is called "Jirisan (智異山)" meaning "a place where a foolish person becomes wise."

Located in Hamyang County, Gyeongsangnam-do, it stands 1,915 meters tall. Jirisan, where the distinct cultures of Yeongnam and Honam meet, is known for its deeper charm than other mountains.

It is home to historic temples such as Hwaeomsa and Ssanggyesa, as well as many cultural assets including national treasures and treasures. It was designated as Korea’s first national park in 1967. Since the first discovery of traces of wild Asiatic black bears in 2000, restoration efforts have been ongoing.

1st Place: Seoraksan

[Image source=Pixabay]

Seoraksan is located at the center of the Baekdudaegan mountain range, spanning Sokcho City, Inje County, Goseong County, and Yangyang County in Gangwon-do.

It stands 1,708 meters tall, making it the third highest mountain in South Korea after Hallasan and Jirisan.

Its main peak, Daecheongbong, along with Sochengbong, Jungcheongbong, Hwachaebong, and about 30 other high peaks, spread out magnificently.

Before the Korean War, it belonged to North Korea, but after the armistice line was drawn, it became part of South Korea. While all areas are famous for their spectacular views, the Shaking Rock and Ulsan Rock are especially well-known.

Seoraksan hosts diverse ecosystems, including 39 species of mammals such as musk deer and foxes, which are rare species, and 62 species of birds. It was designated a natural protection area in 1965 and became a national park in March 1970.