Landscape Photography in South Korea
In the summer of 2022, my friend and I embarked on an unforgettable adventure in South Korea, delving into the natural wonders that grace this beautiful country. We traversed enchanting mountains, explored lush forests, and ventured along the rugged coastline. Our route took us about 2 weeks, starting from Bukhansan National Park, to Seoraksan National Park, then Juwangsan National Park, and finally ending at the Jeju Island. South Korea unveiled its treasures before me, leaving me humbled and inspired, with a collection of photographs that reflected the breathtaking beauty of its landscapes, seascapes, and forests.
Arriving at Seoraksan National Park, we set out for a hike to Mount Daecheongbong that promised a challenge, with an elevation gain of approximately 4,000 feet. We reached the summit around sunset after about 7 hours. The breathtaking sight of majestic mountains and sprawling valleys through the mist became our reward for overcoming the hurdles of the arduous hike.
The view at the summit of Mount Daecheongbong, Seoraksan National Park.
Throughout the hikes in Bukhansan and Seoraksan National Parks, we encountered many enchanting pine trees shrouded in mist. The ethereal atmosphere created by the interplay of fog and tall pines evokes a sense of mystery and tranquility.
A collection of pines and mist.
We then went to Juwangsan National Park, where we started our hike in the late afternoon to scout for a sunset location. As we were hiking up to the mountains, we encountered the spectacle of crepuscular rays piercing through storm clouds onto the mountain peaks. These radiant sunbeams created a dramatic and mystical atmosphere, transforming the landscape into a magical canvas of light and shadows.
Crepuscular rays in Juwangsan National Park.
Our last stop of the trip was the Jeju Island, where we spent 5 days exploring. Our only hike in Jeju was in the Hallasan National Park, which took us 4 hours to get to the summit.
The volcanic crater of Hallasan, Hallasan National Park.
We also explored Jeju's captivating waterfalls. The summer season brought lush greenery and a sense of vitality that transformed the island's landscapes. Amidst this natural splendor, Jeju's waterfalls became even more enchanting.
Cheonjeyeon and Cheonjiyeon Falls with the summer light.
When we arrived at the Cheonjeyeonpokpo Falls, it was dried out that there was no water flow. However, this created a perfect reflection of the beautiful rock formations.
The reflection at Cheonjeyeonpokpo Falls when it was dried.
We were most excited about the seascape photography opportunities. Jeju Island is characterized by its unique geological features, including volcanic rock formations and basalt cliffs. These formations create a captivating backdrop for seascape photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the warm light enhances the textures of the rocks.
Photographing the coast of Jeju.
My favorite photo of the trip was captured near Suwolbong, when a light beam radiated on the lighthouse on the island near sunset. The whole scene was transformed, and the contrast between the light and the stormy clouds added so much drama and atmosphere to the composition.
A light beam radiated on the island and the lighthouse.
This trip was one of the more challenging one I've been on. Yet, every arduous hike, every early morning wake-up call, and every encounter with the unpredictable weather became a thread woven into the tapestry of my visual narrative. The lens became my storyteller, translating the grandeur of South Korea's natural wonders into a series of still frames that now form a cherished collection of memories. This journey wasn't just about capturing landscapes; it was about immersing myself in the soul of South Korea, and in doing so, I found not only stunning visuals but a profound connection to the spirit of the land. As I packed my camera gear, I knew that the challenges faced were the crucible in which unforgettable images were forged, making this expedition not just a portfolio of photographs but a testament to the enduring allure of the South Korean wilderness.