I started from Seogwipo at 4:14 AM, well before sunrise, carrying all my supplies: 3 liters of water, 600 ml of isotonic drink, a few cookies, and several energy gels. The early morning miles were cool and quiet, and it took me roughly two hours to reach the Seongpanak Trailhead.
The climb to Hallasan is long and sustained rather than technical, with much of the route consisting of wooden boardwalks and stairs. I reached the summit shortly after 8:00 AM and was rewarded with clear views from the highest point in South Korea.
The descent required careful footing to preserve my legs for the remaining distance. After leaving the mountain, I continued toward Jeju City. The final 12 kilometers were hot under the midday sun.
This was a true unsupported effort from start to finish, carrying everything I needed and experiencing the incredible variety of Jeju Island.