Geum Oreum (금오름), also known as Geumak Oreum (금악오름) or locally as Geomeun Oreum (거믄오름) meaning “black oreum,” is a volcanic cone (oreum in Jeju dialect) located in Hallim-eup, Jeju City, Jeju Island, South Korea. While its official elevation is 427.5 meters, the actual height to climb is a relatively easy 178 meters, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking beautiful scenery without a strenuous hike.
Key Features:
Relatively Easy Climb: It takes around 15-20 minutes to hike to the summit along a well-maintained paved road, making it accessible for most visitors, including families. There’s also a slightly longer, more natural forest path option.
Crater Lake (Geumakdam): The highlight of Geum Oreum is its unique crater, which often fills with water after heavy rainfall, forming a serene lake called Geumakdam (금악담). This crater lake is sometimes referred to as a “mini Baekrokdam” due to its resemblance to the crater lake at the summit of Hallasan Mountain. However, the water level can vary, and the bottom of the crater may be exposed during drier periods.
Panoramic Views: From the summit and along the trail, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Hallasan Mountain to the east, other oreums, and the coastline towards Hyeopjae Beach. The sunset views from Geum Oreum are particularly famous.
Photo Opportunities: The picturesque scenery, especially the crater lake when filled with water, makes Geum Oreum a popular spot for taking memorable photos.
Filming Location: Geum Oreum gained additional fame as a filming location for the popular Korean movie “Parasite.”
Jinji Cave (Japanese Military Tunnel): Near Geum Oreum, about 180 meters away, lies Jinji Cave, one of the numerous man-made caves built during the Japanese colonial period, serving as shelters for residents during the 4.3 Incident.
Surrounding Area: The area around Geum Oreum is also known for the Seong Isidor Ranch, with its unique Ctesiphon architecture and “Uyubudan” milk cafe, making it a worthwhile stop nearby.
Visiting Information:
Location: San 1-1 Geumak-ri, Hallim-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do (제주특별자치도 제주시 한림읍 금악리 산1-1)
Operating Hours: Generally open year-round. It’s recommended to visit during daylight hours, especially for sunset views.
Admission Fee: Free
Parking: There is a parking area near the entrance, but it can get crowded, especially during peak times like sunset. There might be additional parking spaces along the road leading up to the entrance. Parking is free.
Hiking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes to the summit. Allow extra time to walk around the crater rim.
Facilities: Restrooms are available at the parking area, but they might be basic. There might be food trucks and cafes near the entrance.
Geum Oreum is a relatively easy to climb oreum that rewards visitors with beautiful scenery, a unique crater lake (when visible), and a chance to experience a popular filming location. It’s a great addition to any Jeju itinerary, particularly for those exploring the western part of the island.
