Soesokkak

Soesokkak is the mouth of the Hyodoncheon stream, which runs down the southern slopes of Hallasan and meets the sea in Hahyo-dong, Seogwipo. Just before the shore the stream widens into a deep pool framed by cliffs of solidified lava and pine woods. Few places on the Seogwipo coast bring a gorge and the sea together like this, so even a short walk shows you one of the most distinctive landforms on Jeju's south coast.

What the name means

The name comes from the Jeju language. "Soe" means cow, "so" means pool and "kkak" means end, so it is roughly "the pool at the end of the cow". The area is said to have originally been called "Soedun" because the landform looked like a cow lying down.

How it was formed

This stretch of the Hyodoncheon is a gorge created when lava flowed down and hardened. Deep and shallow pools alternate along the channel, and many rocks along the water have been given names based on their shapes. Near the mouth, the stream's fresh water mixes with seawater, and this brackish zone supports its own ecosystem.

Depending on the light and weather, the water looks anything from green to deep teal. Near the mouth the water is especially deep and dark, with the rocks and pines reflected on its surface. Soesokkak was designated a national Scenic Site in 2011, covering an area of about 47,000 m².

What to see

• Streamside path: Walk along the channel and look down on the pool, the cliffs and the pine woods.
• Rock formations: Look for rocks named after an eagle, lions and other shapes. The same rock can look quite different depending on where you stand.
• The stream mouth: Stand where the channel reaches the sea and you can see river and ocean meet right in front of you.
• Olle trails: Jeju Olle Routes 5 and 6 connect at Soesokkak. Following Route 6 towards central Seogwipo is a pleasant continuation.

Tripto tips

• Visitor info: Open at all times, every day, with free entry and free parking. There are toilets.
• Time needed: 30 minutes to an hour is enough for a walk around the pool.
• On the water: Rides on a teu (a traditional Jeju log raft) and transparent kayaks are well known here, but whether they run and what they cost changes from year to year and with the weather. Check on site.
• Best time: Right after heavy rain the water can turn murky. On a clear morning or afternoon the colours show best.
• Festival: The Soesokkak Festival is held in the area every year; dates vary, so check ahead.
• Around the area: Soesokkak lies in Hahyo-dong at the southern foot of Hallasan, a major tangerine-growing area, so in winter you will see orchards all around the village. A short drive west brings you to Jeongbang Falls.
• Walking route: Follow Olle Route 6 from Soesokkak towards central Seogwipo and the path stays close to the sea. Even a short stretch combines the river mouth with coastal views.