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Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliffs

Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff (대포해안주상절리대; map) is one of the most iconic natural attractions on Jeju Island. Located along the southwestern coast in Seogwipo City, it was formed by volcanic activity over hundreds of thousands of years. The site, a designated Natural Monument of Korea, is celebrated for its dramatic landscape of hexagonal basalt columns rising from the sea.

Geology and Formation

The Jusangjeolli Cliffs were formed approximately 140,000 to 250,000 years ago during the Pleistocene Epoch. Lava from the Hallasan volcano flowed into the ocean, cooling rapidly and fracturing into polygonal columns as it contracted. The resulting structures, called columnar joints, are predominantly hexagonal, though variations from four to seven sides can be observed. The cliffs stretch for approximately 2 kilometers along the coastline, with some columns reaching up to 40 meters in height.

The cliffs are a natural laboratory for studying volcanic processes, offering an example of how cooling rates and environmental factors influence geological formations. At Jusangjeolli, the lower sections of the columns, which were in contact with cooler seawater, exhibit the most distinct shapes, while the upper sections display less-defined structures due to slower cooling.

Natural Monument Status

In 2005, the Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliffs were designated as Natural Monument No. 443. The designation recognizes not only the site’s geological importance but also its aesthetic and cultural value.

The cliffs offer insights into the interplay between volcanic activity and coastal erosion, making them a key location for both scientific research and tourism. To protect this natural heritage, access to the cliffs themselves is restricted, with observation decks and pathways providing safe and sustainable viewing points.

Visiting the Cliffs

Visitors can access the Jusangjeolli Cliffs through a well-maintained park that features observation platforms, signage, and amenities

The panoramic views from the decks showcase the full extent of the cliffs’ grandeur, with the rhythmic waves crashing against the rock columns. During rough seas, waves can spray over 20 meters high.

  • Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM  ~  5:30 PM (Last entry at 5:10 PM)
  • Admission:
    • Adults: 2,000 KRW
    • Children: 1,000 KRW
  • Parking: Paid parking is available (1,000 KRW for small cars, 2,000 KRW for standard vehicles).

Highlights and Tips

  • Best Views: Visit during low tide for clearer views of the base of the columns, or during high tide for dramatic waves.
  • Photography: The cliffs are most photogenic during sunrise or sunset when the sunlight accentuates the textures of the basalt.
  • Seasonal Beauty: Spring and fall provide the most pleasant weather for exploring the surrounding trails and adjacent landmarks.

Nearby Attractions

The Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliffs are part of the Jeju Olle Trail Course 8 and are located near several other prominent attractions in Seogwipo: