In Greek mythology, a man named Sisyphus was given an eternal punishment to roll a boulder up a mountain, only to have it fall down every single time. While climbing Mount Halla located in Jeju Island, people will, unless they are a physical wonder, feel as if they are Sisyphus. In many cases, the continuous climb discourages even the most experienced hikers. However, this mountain is
also full of greenery, natural wonders, and history. Because this mountain is almost two thousand meters high, a whole day should be taken off for a visit. Rest assured, there will be no regrets.
One of the most surprising things about Mount Halla is the plethora of connections to nature that people can establish. For one, the darkness of the morning heightens peoples’ senses to many
different sounds. In the early morning, which is when most people start their journey up
Mount Halla, the feeling of tranquility is reinforced. From tree leaves rustling to a lone bird
chirping, people can feel that they are a part of nature. The cool mountain air is also something
that will be rooted in peoples’ minds for days to come. Nothing can compare with the fresh wisp
of winds brushing one’s hair back and creating a slight chill while hiking up the mountain.
At the very top of the mountain, a crater lake named Baengnokdam can be found, along with a
wide field of highland plants and flowers. The wind is stronger, but also more vibrant and playful.
Next, there are many legends and historical events associated with Mount Halla, which will make
the visit to the mountain much more worthwhile. Every mountain has a story of its creation or its background. Suffice to say, Mount Halla, as the highest mountain in South Korea, is bound to have its share of tales. One legend, related to Baengnokdam, has been engraved on a rock near the
mountain itself. A poor woodsman climbed Mount Halla in order to collect enough wood to earn
money for his ailing mother. When he reached Baengnokdam, he was able to see a white deer,
which was revered throughout the village. The sighting of this deer brought him luck, and
his mother was able to recover from her illness. Many people are fascinated by the beauty of
Baengnokdam at the top, and a few very lucky ones will actually get to see a white deer
roaming the top of the mountain.
Korean culture can also be experienced during the climb up Mount Halla. Koreans are known to be neighborly, and they tend to group together in times of hardships. As climbing Mount Halla can
most definitely be classified as a hardship, it is not hard to see climbers offering water or snacks
to fellow climbers. Greetings are exchanged frequently, and some even find spontaneous climbing partners in the middle of the hike. In light of the COVID situation, the tradition of having a picnic
lunch at the top altogether has diminished somewhat, but friendly faces and helping hands are
easy to come by. From climbing techniques for lessening the stress on the body to
recommendations for good massage places after the climb, it is possible to make a handful of
friends while at Mount Halla.
Mount Halla is widely regarded as the holy grail for many domestic climbers - yet, it is not
as widely known in other countries. It is not as high as Mount Everest, nor is it as famous as
Mount Fuji. However, there is a unique environment and culture that can only be experienced
at this mountain. Combine that with the thrill of the climb and the majestic view at the top,
and what more can you wish for as a tourist wanting to experience Korea?