Jeju, often written as Cheju in older English sources, is South Korea’s largest island and lies in the Korea Strait south of the Korean Peninsula. The island is known for its volcanic landscapes, coastal cliffs, lava tubes, and the prominent peak of Hallasan, which rises at its center. Jeju has a distinct identity within South Korea, shaped by its island geography and long-standing local traditions. The combination of volcanic terrain, agricultural fields, fishing villages, and modern tourism infrastructure makes it one of the country’s most recognizable destinations.

The culture of Jeju reflects a heritage that differs in several ways from mainland Korea. The island is famous for the haenyeo, women divers who harvest seafood without breathing equipment and are recognized by UNESCO for their cultural significance. Traditional stone walls built from volcanic rock divide fields across the island, while distinctive dol hareubang, large stone guardian statues, are commonly seen near cultural sites and public spaces. Local dialects, folk traditions, and village rituals remain important parts of Jeju’s identity, reflecting centuries of adaptation to island life and the surrounding sea.

Hallasan National Park is one of Jeju’s most notable attractions, with hiking trails leading through forests, volcanic landscapes, and alpine environments. The island is also home to Seongsan Ilchulbong, a volcanic tuff cone rising from the coast, and the Manjanggul Lava Tube, one of the world’s longest lava tube systems. Along the shoreline, visitors encounter black volcanic beaches, dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and offshore islets. Together, these natural features form part of the UNESCO-listed Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes site, recognized for its geological importance.

Jeju’s cuisine is closely connected to the sea and the island’s agricultural traditions. Black pork is one of the island’s best-known specialties, often grilled and served with local side dishes. Fresh seafood, including abalone, sea urchin, and cuttlefish, appears frequently on local menus, while citrus fruits such as hallabong oranges are important agricultural products. One distinctive feature of Jeju is its abundance of volcanic stone, which has influenced everything from architecture and farming practices to cultural symbols found throughout the island. These elements give Jeju a character that is noticeably different from other regions of South Korea.