11-day trek covers Hallasan summit and coastal plains in challenge of endurance and teamwork
Chosun University students are embarking on a 240-kilometer walking pilgrimage across Jeju Island and South Jeolla Province, from the summit of Hallasan to the plains of the southern mainland.
Chosun University (President Kim Chun-sung) announced Tuesday the start of the 10-night, 11-day journey, which runs through July 3.
Organized jointly by the student council and the student welfare team, the pilgrimage combines long-distance walking, a Hallasan ascent and local environmental cleanup activities into a hands-on, student-led field program.
Participants will travel by ferry from Mokpo Port to Jeju Port, walk across Jeju Island, return to Mokpo and then continue on foot through Muan, Hampyeong and Naju before arriving back at Chosun University — a total of 240 kilometers. A closing ceremony is scheduled for 5 p.m. on July 3, once all stages are complete.
The Hallasan ascent on the fifth day is one of the program's most symbolic elements. Climbing the mountain, participants are expected to develop a deeper appreciation for the natural environment and gain firsthand experience of perseverance and cooperation.
President Kim and other university members — including faculty, alumni and staff — will join the Hallasan climb, bringing the total number of participants that day to 80. At the summit, they will reflect on the significance of the university's 80th anniversary and share in the spirit of unity and challenge.
Along the route, students will also take part in local environmental cleanup activities, learning about carbon neutrality and environmental protection in the field and reflecting on the role young people can play in building sustainable communities.
Walking and living together over the course of the journey, encouraging one another and cooperating to complete the route safely, participants are expected to build a stronger sense of responsibility, consideration for others and community spirit.
"The time spent with nature, people and fellow travelers on the road will offer a kind of learning that is hard to find in a classroom," President Kim said. "I hope students use this pilgrimage to strengthen themselves and create a meaningful experience of growing together."
sij@heraldcorp.com
