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코로나로 막힌 여행길, 화산섬 제주도 문화유산에서 힐링With many borders around the world still closed due to the covid-19 pandemic, but the outbreak in South Korea relatively under control compared to several weeks ago... many in this country are choosing the southern resort island of Jeju as their travel spot.Just off the southern coast of the Korean peninsula, the exotic island offers unique geological features not only amazing to look at but with scientific value as well.Lee Kyung-eun reports.The island of Jeju, just off the coast of the Korean peninsula, was formed by volcanic eruptions.Its unique geological features and natural beauty,... make it a popular destination for domestic tourism, even more so with the halt in overseas travel.The tuff cone of Seongsan Ilchulbong or Seongsan Sunrise Peak is one of the island's most iconic spots.Rising out from the ocean, the sea cliffs offer a view that cannot been seen in other volcanic cones around the island.It's also known for its scientific value given its well-preserved bowl-shaped crater and the inner structures of a hydrovolcano, which is why it is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.It takes roughly 20 minutes to reach the peak, where you can enjoy one of the most spectacular sunrises in the country."I was really impressed when I came here for a school trip. I wanted to come here with my kid as the hiking course is not that tough either."The volcanic activities have also created this estuary, where fresh water meets with the ocean.The tide's ebb and flow can even be seen in this lake.And in the afternoon, the water level goes down by up to 2 meters."Tourists can also take a ride on one of Jeju's traditional fishing boats, known as Taewoo. The wooden boats were once used by haenyo, or the island's iconic female divers."And people can use kayaks to get up close to the volcanic cliffs.But Manjanggul cave may offer a truly exceptional experience, taking you into the actual passageways that lava once flowed through.Meaning "very deep" in local dialogue,... the tunnel shows the delicate footprints of the lava flow, from which its direction and thickness can be estimated."I’ve been to other caves before but I’ve never seen one this big."Some 170 volcanic caves have been discovered so far, of which four are open to the public.Lee Kyung-eun, Arirang News, Jeju.