Hikers are being urged to exercise caution as wild boar sightings on Jeju's Hallasan Mountain continue to rise ahead of the spring hiking season.
According to Jeju City and the Jeju branch of the Wildlife Management Association, 150 wild boars were captured on Hallasan last year, up from 90 the previous year—an increase of 60 animals.
Annual captures on the mountain had remained in the 100-range with 128 in 2020 and 105 in 2021, before declining to 91 in 2022 and 47 in 2023. However, numbers rebounded last year. This year, five boars were caught between January 6 and 9, immediately after the capture season began.
On the evening of January 7, two hikers descending Course 1 of the Hallasan Dulle Trail in Aewol-eup, Jeju City, reported spotting a wild boar. The pair lost their way while attempting to avoid the animal and called 119 for rescue.
Late last year, hikers were temporarily stranded on the Seongpanak trail after wild boars appeared on the route. As the animals move to lower elevations in search of food, sightings have been confirmed at some oreum volcanic cones frequented by tourists. Reports indicate boars have also ventured onto golf courses and into residential areas.
Particular caution is advised during spring, the boar breeding season, when the animals become more aggressive. An official from the Jeju branch of the Wildlife Management Association said, "The breeding season can begin as early as late February. Wild animals are most sensitive when pregnant or accompanied by their young. Petting baby boars because they look cute is especially dangerous as it can provoke the mother."
As of 2019, an estimated 800 wild boars inhabited Jeju. Experts believe the population has likely grown since then.
When encountering a wild boar, hikers should remain calm and avoid screaming or running. Maintaining eye contact while taking cover behind rocks or trees is recommended. Without throwing stones or making threatening gestures, hikers should retreat to a safe location and immediately report the sighting to emergency services at 119 or 112.