▲ Trekkers are enjoying the fresh air in Saryeoni. Photo by Kim Jinmi

[This article is written by a JDC Junior Journalist. The JDC Junior Journalist program is an educational project sponsored by Jeju Free International City Development Corporation (JDC). JDC Junior Journalist articles are only briefly edited by mentors before publishing.]

A special feature of the Saryeoni forest is the volcanic clusters unique to Jeju that form the Forest’s walking path. A “cluster” is a term used by the cosmetic industry to describe hard, light-weight, and porous volcanic stones. It is one of Jeju’s unique natural resources and it is distributed around Halla Mountain. It has alkalescency properties similar to human blood, and it has many health industry uses, like vein treatment, far infrared emmition, negative ionization, antibacterial and deodorant properties, anion release, and various other cosmetic uses.

The Saryeoni forest is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna such as the Jeju weasel, badger, black-headed snake, Polystichum polyblepharum var polyblepharum (Japanese tassel fern,) and ant thrush.

From May 26th until june 9th, the ‘Eco-Healing’ festival is being held in the Saryeoni Forest. The term “Eco-healing” is made up of an abbreviation of “ecology” and the word “healing”; it implies the natural recovery of the mind and body’s power to heal itself and create a healthy life.

There are eight courses one can traverse in the Saryeoni Forest. To get around during the festival, one can ride a circuit bus.

There are many special programs being held during the festival, for example: a forest lecture, Song-It Road Barefoot Walking, and a small forest musical. Also, during the festival, additional courses, not usually open to the public, are available to visitors. There is as well an oreum (parasitic volcano) in the forest.

Jeong Seong-sam, who visited the forest with his son, summed it up in one word, “Excellent!” He also said, “I don’t usually have many opportunity to have physical contact with my son, but here we hold hands naturally while we walk together. So, I like that very much.”

And his son said, “I want to visit this place with my family!”

Jung Min-sung, who visited from Seoul with family said, “If I had to describe this forest in one sentence, I want to say that it is peaceful and it heals my mind! Also, I want to come here with my boyfriend.”

The sentiments from the various hikers from all over imply that the Saryeoni forest is a place with high conservation value that can heal our minds, and unlock the mystery of nature.