Title: Uncovering the Fascinating Story of Oreums on Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island, a stunning volcanic archipelago located off the southern coast of South Korea, is home to many unique geological wonders. While its towering volcanic peaks have long been a source of fascination, a lesser-known gem lies hidden beneath our feet – the Oreum (, literally “washed-out volcano” or “extinct mini volcanic cones”). In this article, we’ll delve into the history and significance of these intriguing Oreums that once dotted the island like miniature sentinels guarding Jeju’s ancient treasures.
What are Oreums?
Oreums can be described as small volcanic cones, typically ranging between 10 to 70 meters in height, dotting the landscape of Jeju Island. They resulted from the eruption of magmatic fluids, which had lower viscosity and gas contents than those responsible for bigger, more explosive volcanic systems. This unique characteristic rendered the Oreums relatively slow to form and often had relatively short lifespans compared to their larger counterparts.
Geological Composition and Formation
Jeju’s Oreums are dominantly composed of basaltic rocks, with concentrations of pyroxene-rich lavas and tectosite-a. This composition is distinct from other volcanic rocks on Jeju, which are typified by andesites. The Oreums’ slow formation process, sometimes referred to as “de novo” volcanism (formation of new volcanic system within an existing one), resulted in the accumulation of fine-grained sediments at the base of volcanic craters. These crustaceans, along the flanks of the surrounding basaltic cones were transformed into a more or less horizontal layer.
How and Why Did They Fizzle Out?
Jeju Island’s Oreums primarily owe their extinction to regional cooling and the resulting increased erosion. As the initial pyroclastic infilling and subsequent weather conditions diminished, the volcanic pipes no longer received sufficient influx to sustain their volcanic episodes, and the eruptions dwindled. Gradations to the surface environment due to a decrease in external supply, and subsequent variations, were also likely causally related to the ultimate fading of the Oreems’ activity.
Fleeting yet Fertile Past
Despite their humble sizes, Oreums performed important roles in Jeju’s ecosystem. As sources of heat, nutrients and metals, they likely bolstered local biodiversity and terrestrial carbon storage. Furthermore they facilitated the development of numerous distinct soil types and geomorphological features that ultimately characterized Jeju’s overall appearance.
Conservation Measures
Jeju Island officials are working to preserve Oreoins for future visitors by creating designated Oreume Ecological Parks and supporting long-term research projects geared at better understanding these phenomena and their significance within geoscience. Visitors coming from around the world also assist in the conservation.
Worth Visiting!
Visitors can plan for an unforgettable journey from anywhere to Jeju – even with a trip taken off from Seoul or Gimhae. You and yours will be thrilled that such an incredible adventure as experiencing the Oreums now unfolds on this fascinating tour around the world. Please consult with local guides along your trip to find reliable tours or information. While, we have an even smaller but still important ecological heritage that we have saved within the island. Remember always to respect local protection orders, as we believe a balanced relationship between modern times and the preservation principles and cultural heritage will truly continue.
Conclusion
Amongst the towering volcanic massifs and lush forests covering Jeju Island, lesser-known Oreums quietly but substantially contribute to the islands biodiversity and geological charm.
If you ever have got chance to visit Jejo then make sure you discover their Oreums for firsthand to witness the enchant of volcanic landscapes.
Download image Oreums (extinct mini volcanoes) of Jeju Island, South Korea [OC] [3393×2407] by sonderewander