Saebyeol Oreum (새별오름), also known as Saebyeol Volcanic Cone, is a prominent and picturesque parasitic cone (oreum in the Jeju dialect) located in Aewol-eup, Jeju City, Jeju Island, South Korea. Its name translates to “Morning Star Oreum,” possibly because it stands out brightly like a star in the vast plains. It’s one of Jeju’s most famous and easily recognizable oreum, particularly known for its beautiful, undulating ridgeline and the vast fields of silver grass (eulalia) that blanket it in autumn.
Key Features:
Distinctive Ridges: Saebyeol Oreum features a series of elegant, grassy ridges that create a visually striking and photogenic landscape.
Silver Grass Fields: In autumn, the entire oreum is covered in swaying fields of silver grass, creating a breathtaking golden and silver spectacle that attracts many visitors and photographers.
Relatively Easy Hike: While it has a noticeable elevation gain, the hike to the summit is relatively short and manageable for most fitness levels. There are well-maintained trails and stairs leading to the top.
Panoramic Views: From the summit, you are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including other oreum, Hallasan Mountain in the distance on a clear day, and the coastline.
Annual Jeju Fire Festival: Saebyeol Oreum is the main venue for the annual Jeju Fire Festival (제주들불축제), a spectacular event held in early spring to pray for a good harvest and livestock health by setting fire to the dry grass on the oreum.
Horse Grazing: The area around Saebyeol Oreum is often used for grazing horses, adding to the pastoral scenery.
Popular Photography Spot: Its unique shape and the seasonal changes in its appearance make it a favorite subject for photographers throughout the year.
Visiting Information:
Location: San 59-8 Bongseong-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do (제주특별자치도 제주시 애월읍 봉성리 산59-8)
Operating Hours: The oreum is generally open year-round during daylight hours.
Admission Fee: Free
Parking: There is a spacious free parking area at the base of the oreum.
Hiking Time: Allow approximately 30-40 minutes for a round trip to the summit, depending on your pace.
Facilities: Restrooms are available at the parking area. There might be some local vendors selling snacks and drinks.
What to Wear/Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to hike to the summit. Bring water, especially on warmer days. Be prepared for wind at the top.
Saebyeol Oreum is a must-visit natural attraction on Jeju Island, offering beautiful scenery, a relatively easy hike with rewarding panoramic views, and the chance to witness the stunning silver grass fields in autumn. Its iconic shape and cultural significance (due to the Fire Festival) make it a memorable experience.
