South Korea is a paradise for hikers. With nearly 70% of the country covered in mountains, it offers everything from quick urban hikes to multi-day trekking adventures. Whether you’re seeking sweeping city panoramas, volcanic craters, or sunrise views over the ocean, Korea’s mountains deliver both natural beauty and cultural depth.
Two of the most famous climbs are Bukhansan, Seoul’s urban escape, and Hallasan, the towering shield volcano on Jeju Island. But no list would be complete without mentioning Seongsan Ilchulbong, a UNESCO site also on Jeju that rewards visitors with one of the most magical sunrise experiences in the world. Beyond these icons, mountains like Jirisan, Seoraksan, and Naejangsan offer breathtaking alternatives depending on the season and your stamina.
If you’re planning a hiking trip to Korea, here’s a closer look at the best mountains to climb.
Bukhansan: Seoul’s Urban Escape
Towering at 836 meters, Bukhansan is the highest peak within Seoul’s city limits and one of the most accessible hikes in Korea. Its name, which means “Mountain North of the Han River,” reflects its long-standing connection to the capital’s history.
One of Bukhansan’s greatest appeals is how easy it is to reach. Just a short subway and bus ride from central Seoul, the mountain feels like a world away from the city’s busy streets. Locals flock here year-round to escape into nature, and if you join them, you’ll find a mix of rocky ridges, forested trails, and historic landmarks along the way.
The most popular route leads to Baegundae Peak, where panoramic views of Seoul spread out beneath you. The hike usually takes five to six hours round trip, making it ideal for a day adventure. Along the way, you’ll encounter fortress walls, ancient temples, and even remnants of old military outposts. The final stretch can be steep and challenging, but the view at the summit—city skyline framed by rugged granite cliffs—is worth every step.
What makes Bukhansan unique isn’t just the scenery but the hiking culture. Expect to see locals carrying full picnic spreads, sharing tea, and cheering on fellow hikers. It’s part of the charm that makes this mountain not just a natural retreat but also a cultural experience.
If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your hike on a weekday morning. The trails can get very busy on weekends. Dress in layers, bring snacks, and enjoy the rare opportunity to climb a mountain right in the heart of a global metropolis.
Hallasan: Korea’s Tallest Peak
For a very different hiking experience, head south to Jeju Island and tackle Hallasan, Korea’s tallest mountain. Rising to 1,947 meters, this dormant shield volcano dominates the island’s skyline and forms the centerpiece of Hallasan National Park.
Hallasan is famous for its volcanic landscapes and rich biodiversity. Its crater, known as Baengnokdam, is a spectacular sight at the summit, and the mountain’s slopes are dotted with lava tubes, volcanic cones, and alpine flora. Many hikers say that Hallasan feels like an entire continent packed into a single mountain.
Reaching the summit is challenging but rewarding. Two main trails lead to the top: the Seongpanak Trail, which stretches 9.7 kilometers with a more gradual incline, and the Gwaneumsa Trail, a slightly shorter but steeper 8.7 kilometers. Most hikers ascend via Seongpanak and descend through Gwaneumsa to enjoy both routes. The round trip takes eight to nine hours, so start early in the morning—park rangers enforce strict cutoff times to ensure that hikers descend safely before dark.
Climbing Hallasan isn’t just about reaching the peak. The journey itself is filled with changing landscapes: lush forests at the base, volcanic terrain higher up, and sweeping views over Jeju and the surrounding sea. In autumn, the mountain glows with fiery foliage, while winter brings a snow-capped wonderland.
For many Koreans, hiking Hallasan is a rite of passage. It combines the physical challenge of a full-day trek with the reward of standing at the top of the nation’s highest point. If you’re fit, prepared, and ready for a long climb, Hallasan is a must.
P.S. Be sure to check out Road 1100, which connects the north & south of Jeju and reaches an altitude of 1100 meters as it travels over Hallasan Mountain!
Seongsan Ilchulbong: The Sunrise Peak
Not all hikes in Korea require a full day of effort. On the eastern tip of Jeju lies Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a volcanic tuff cone that formed more than 5,000 years ago. At just 182 meters high, it’s a relatively easy climb—but what it lacks in height, it makes up for in spectacle.
The climb to the summit takes only 20 to 30 minutes on well-maintained wooden stairs. From the top, you’ll find yourself looking into a massive crater rimmed by jagged green cliffs. Beyond that, the ocean stretches endlessly, with Jeju’s coastline and even nearby Udo Island visible on clear days.
As its name suggests, Seongsan Ilchulbong is most famous at dawn. Watching the sun rise from the crater’s edge is an unforgettable experience. The sky gradually turns from purple to pink to gold, casting light across the ocean and the mountain’s volcanic rim. It’s so iconic that thousands of visitors climb it at dawn each year.
Unlike Hallasan, Seongsan Ilchulbong is accessible to just about everyone, regardless of fitness level. The path is short, the views are immediate, and the atmosphere is magical. If you’re visiting Jeju, it’s one of the most unmissable experiences you can have.
Jirisan: Korea’s Sacred Mountain
While Hallasan may be the tallest, Jirisan holds a special place in Korean culture. Located in the south, Jirisan is the country’s second-highest mountain and the largest national park. Its vast range covers multiple provinces, making it a destination for serious hikers.
Jirisan is often associated with spirituality, thanks to the many temples nestled along its slopes. Hwaeomsa Temple, for example, is a centuries-old site that offers insight into Korea’s Buddhist traditions. The mountain is also home to Asiatic black bears, adding to its reputation as a place of natural and cultural significance.
The hikes here can last days rather than hours. The full Baekdudaegan Trail, which crosses Jirisan, takes about a week to complete. Even if you only attempt a section, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas, deep forests, and a sense of stepping into a wilder, less-traveled Korea.
Seoraksan: Rugged Beauty in the Northeast
Another favorite among hikers is Seoraksan, located in Gangwon Province. Known for its dramatic granite peaks and autumn foliage, it’s considered one of Korea’s most beautiful national parks.
One of the most popular routes is the climb to Ulsanbawi Rock, a striking formation that offers panoramic views after a challenging ascent of nearly 900 steps. For those seeking a gentler experience, the park also has a cable car that provides quick access to scenic viewpoints.
Seoraksan is particularly famous in autumn, when its valleys blaze with red, orange, and yellow leaves. It’s a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s delight.
Naejangsan: Korea’s Autumn Gem
If you’re visiting Korea in the fall, don’t miss Naejangsan. This mountain in Jeolla Province is renowned for its autumn foliage, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.
The trails here are relatively gentle, winding past waterfalls, Buddhist temples, and forested slopes. During peak season in late October and early November, the entire park transforms into a fiery sea of colors. Even if you’re not an avid hiker, Naejangsan is worth visiting just for the seasonal spectacle.
Choosing the Right Mountain for Your Trip
So, which mountain should you climb? The answer depends on what you’re looking for.
If you want a convenient day hike while staying in Seoul, Bukhansan is your best bet. For a challenging summit experience, Hallasan offers the ultimate reward. If you’re short on time but still want a world-class view, Seongsan Ilchulbong is unbeatable. And if you want to dive deeper into Korea’s landscapes, mountains like Jirisan, Seoraksan, and Naejangsan provide diverse experiences shaped by history, culture, and the changing seasons.
Final Thoughts
Climbing mountains in Korea isn’t just about exercise or scenery—it’s about experiencing the country’s culture and connection to nature. From the shared meals on Bukhansan to the spiritual aura of Jirisan, from the volcanic landscapes of Hallasan to the magical sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong, each hike offers its own unique reward.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, Korea’s mountains welcome you with trails that range from quick 30-minute climbs to multi-day expeditions. Lace up your boots, pack some kimbap, and get ready to see Korea from the top of its peaks.
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