Inside the closed cave in Hallasan national parkWhat’s in a Cave?

Soluble rock! That’s what’s in a cave. The terrain of soluble rock and a wet enough climate combine to hollow out a “landscape” under a landscape. In general, caves in Korea require rainfall and chemically erodible material. Calcium carbonate limestone and other sedimentary carbonates, technically described as Karst landforms, make up much of that material.

With sufficient time, liquid under the power of gravity finds its way down to the water table through the natural faults and joints of rock, widening out weak points as it flows. Should conditions prove suitable, dissolved mineral additives precipitate out of the solution into speleothems or cave formations. These include stalactites, stalagmites, columns, flowstone and draperies, shields, and cave coral—all features you’ll find in the most beautiful caves in Korea.

Suitable conditions for cave formation can be found, among other places, in the mountain ranges forming the traditional “spine” of Korea. Traveling down the Chungcheong expressway to Danyang in North Chungcheong Province, there is a 70-kilometer “arc” of half a dozen major caves in Korea extending north-north east, up to Yeongweol and then east across into the territory near Taebaek, that encompasses most of the major caves open to the public in Korea.

TubesManjang Cave

For a blend of history and natural wonder, the Manjang Cave on Jeju Island is a must-see among caves in Korea. Manjang Cave is part of the Geomunoreum Lava Tube System, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This lava tube was formed by volcanic activity and stretches over 8 kilometers, making it one of the longest of its kind in the world. The cave’s unique features, such as lava shelves, stalactites, and lava flow structures, offer a stark contrast to the limestone caves found elsewhere in Korea. Exploring Manjang Cave provides a rare opportunity to witness the power of volcanic forces and the beauty they create. For travelers seeking caves in Korea with a twist, Manjang Cave is an unforgettable destination.

ManjanGul: There is an eerie sensation when walking down Manjang Gul, where you can imagine the tremendous heat and the frightening magnitude of a volcanic eruption that must have been necessary to produce enough liquid rock for the cave’s formation. This is a feeling unique to lava tube caves in Korea.

Tunnels

Gosu (Danyang), Gossi (Yeongwol), and Daekum (half an hour out of Samcheok along route 36) are all caves that are principally convoluted and braided natural tunnels. Each requires perhaps a little over an hour to fully walkthrough. They are thoroughly enjoyable clambers up and down metal staircases, across metal-plated walkways, and onto specifically constructed viewing platforms at particular stopping points that enable you to appreciate the major highlights of each of the caves. The routes are well lit up with foot lighting.

Gosu Cave

Gosu Cave in Danyang, North Chungcheong Province, is one of the most celebrated caves in Korea, renowned for its impressive natural tunnels and fascinating geological history. This vast limestone cave, often called the “underground palace,” stretches for nearly 1,700 meters and has been shaped over 500 million years. Inside, visitors are greeted by a labyrinth of twisting passageways, spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, underground lakes, and unique formations like Lion Rock and the Virgin Mary Rock. The cave is well-equipped for exploration, with metal staircases and walkways guiding you through its cool, illuminated corridors. The area surrounding Gosu Cave is lively, with local restaurants and souvenir shops, making it a favorite stop for travelers seeking to discover the wonders of caves in Korea.

Gosu is large enough though that you may comfortably remain standing upright throughout, although it does feature a lot of “vertical movement” (meaning hauling yourself up steel stair work!).

Gossi Cave

Gossi Cave, located in Yeongwol, Gangwon-do, is another standout among the caves in Korea, famous for its rich history and striking limestone features. Spanning almost 6 kilometers, Gossi Cave is steeped in legend, its name originating from the Go family who took refuge here during the Japanese invasion of Korea. The cave is known for its intricate tunnels, dramatic dips in the ceiling, and the requirement that visitors wear helmets due to the low-hanging rock formations. Inside, explorers can find four lakes, three waterfalls, and six open plazas, all formed over the past 400 million years. Remnants of ancient fires from the Go family’s time can still be seen, adding a unique historical dimension. With its challenging passages and fascinating stories, Gossi Cave offers a truly immersive experience for anyone interested in the diverse caves in Korea.

Gossi Cave lies across the river from the ticketing office and car park complex…take the pedestrian bridge!

Daekum Cave

Daekum Cave, located just half an hour from Samcheok along route 36, is a hidden gem among the caves in Korea, known for its active stream and internal waterfall. Unlike many other caves, Daekum features a very lively watercourse, with the sound of rushing water and the sight of an impressive waterfall deep inside the cave. Entry to Daekum Cave requires a reservation and a guide, a policy that has helped preserve its pristine formations and unique ecosystem. Visitors reach the entrance via a dramatic monorail ride, which sets the stage for an unforgettable underground adventure. The cave’s well-lit walkways and thoughtfully constructed platforms allow for safe exploration while showcasing the natural highlights. For those seeking a more exclusive and adventurous journey through the caves in Korea, Daekum Cave provides a truly memorable experience.

Daekum: All of these caves have “pools” at some points, or else stretches of flowing water. However, only Daekum has a very active stream running through it, featuring an internal waterfall of some substance.

Dark also requires an accompanying guide and a reservation in advance on a Korean-only website. The entrance staff claim, perhaps with some justification, that these strictures have preserved the quality of the formations within the Daekum complex, especially as compared to other caves. Arrival at the cave occurs in a reasonably dramatic fashion courtesy of a purpose-built monorail.

ChambersHwaam

Hwaam Cave stands out as one of the most unique caves in Korea, seamlessly blending natural wonders with a rich mining heritage. Located in Jeongseon, Gangwon Province, Hwaam Cave was originally the Cheonpo gold mine, once the nation’s fifth largest, operating commercially from 1922 to 1945. Today, it has been transformed into Korea’s only themed cave, dedicated to the fascinating intersection of gold and nature. This makes Hwaam Cave a must-see for anyone interested in the history and geology of caves in Korea.

Hwanseongul: It’s true that if you have hiked Mammoth Caves in Kentucky or toured the gargantuan Sarawk Chamber in Gunung Mulu, Hwanseongul will seem tame. However, should you happen not to have done so, the Gangwon-do chamber cave is a genuinely magnificent spectacle.

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Similar to nearby Daekum Cave (they are in the same complex!), a tiny monorail delivers visitors to Hwanseongul’s main entrance. Just 100 meters behind this, an enormous “domed roof” with several stories of height gives you an idea of the scale of this cave. The ceiling is deliberately lit up by powerful flood lights, without which you would never even be able to even make out the expanse of rock above you.

The cathedral-like interior is genuinely awe-inspiring…a massive main chamber that marches off into the distance for over a kilometer, with several smaller subsidiary chambers off on either side. The path side lighting which might otherwise seem a little garish is dwarfed by the majestic grandeur of the place. It even contains a couple of small suspension bridges built purely for the enjoyment (they sway underfoot!) of the general public.

The only possible complaint? If you’re a purist, for its all size, Hwanseongul lacks formations insignificant number. It can also become frustratingly crowded if you choose to tour it at the wrong time. The first or last tours that miss the maddening crowds bused in from far afield will be well worth the trouble.

If you are interested in visiting caves in Korea, check out the list of places you could go on TripAdvisor!

Malcolm West is now in his twelfth and final year in Korea (for the foreseeable future!). An instructor at Incheon University, he is thankful for the many wonderful memories in Korea that he will soon be looking back on.

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