🌋 Mulyeongari Oreum – A Hidden Gem in Eastern Jeju
If you’re looking to explore one of the more unique and lesser-known oreums on Jeju Island’s eastern side, Mulyeongari Oreum should be on your list. Frequently featured in Korean media, this oreum is famous not just for its volcanic origins but also for the ecological wetland nestled within its crater.
📍 Getting There
Mulyeongari Oreum is located in Seogwipo City’s Namwon-eup, and there’s a designated parking lot at the entrance along with restrooms. Past the entrance, you’ll find a small visitor information center, usually staffed by friendly local volunteers who can answer questions about the trail and the area.
🥾 The Trail – More Challenging Than It Looks
At first glance, Mulyeongari might seem like an easy climb—but don’t be fooled. While the initial stretch is a peaceful open pasture, the trail quickly becomes steeper and more demanding, especially if you choose the direct staircase route up the oreum. The stairs are long, steep, and can feel endless—definitely not for the faint of heart.
If you’d prefer a more scenic and moderate hike, there’s an alternate forest trail that leads to an observation deck. It takes about 30 minutes longer, but offers beautiful views and a relaxing path through cedar and pine trees filled with fresh phytoncides.
👉 Tip: Go up using the forest trail to the observation deck, and down using the stairs for a more enjoyable experience.
🌿 Nature Highlights
One of the most charming aspects of the hike is the ever-changing scenery:
- Wide open pastures near the entrance (now used as cow pastures)
- Dense cedar forests that feel refreshingly cool and serene
- Occasional stone walls, once used to keep horses inside the ranch (known as Jatsung)
During spring, the forest is especially vibrant, and if you’re lucky, you might spot dragonflies even in early April!
🔭 Observation Deck & Crater Wetland
Once you reach the observation point, you’ll be rewarded with misty forest views—especially stunning after rainfall. However, there’s no panoramic summit view like many other oreums. Instead, Mulyeongari’s main attraction lies within: a volcanic crater turned into an ecological wetland, which is designated as a Ramsar Wetland.
That said, the wetland is partially obscured by vegetation, so it may feel a little underwhelming if you’re expecting sweeping vistas. It’s more of a quiet, contemplative space than a dramatic photo spot.
⏱️ Trail Summary & Tips
- Round-trip time: ~2 hours
- Restrooms: Only at the entrance
- Best time to visit: After rain (for a better wetland view) – but not during rain, as the trail can be slippery
- Not ideal for: Casual walkers or those seeking big summit views
- Best suited for: Nature lovers, hikers who enjoy varied terrain, and those looking for a peaceful escape
✍️ Final Thoughts
Mulyeongari Oreum offers a different kind of Jeju experience—quiet, lush, and ecological rather than dramatic. It’s not the easiest hike, and the lack of a true summit view might disappoint some. But for those interested in Jeju’s natural environment and hidden landscapes, it’s a rewarding spot—especially on a misty morning or in the calm of spring.
Would I visit again? Probably not on a rainy day—but it’s definitely a unique oreum worth experiencing at least once.
