Jeju City history

The history of Jeju City is inextricably linked to the centuries-old chronicle of the entire island, which existed as an independent state for a long time. The modern city grew on a site that has been the political and cultural centre of this unique part of South Korea since ancient times.

Foundation and First Mentions

Before the island received its current name, it was known as the Kingdom of Tamna, which means "island country". Although the exact date of the state's founding is unknown, legends date back to deep antiquity. According to the myth of Samseonghyeol ("Caves of the Three Clans"), three demigods emerged from three holes in the ground located in the centre of modern Jeju City to become the progenitors of the island's indigenous population. Archaeological finds made in the Samyang-dong area confirm that large settlements existed here as early as the 3rd century BC.

Key Factors of Development

The development of the city and the island was determined by several key factors. Firstly, geographical isolation from the mainland allowed the Kingdom of Tamna to maintain independence and form a distinctive culture for a long time. Secondly, its advantageous location facilitated the development of maritime trade with the states of the Korean Peninsula, as well as with China and Japan. Politically, the Kingdom of Tamna remained independent until it was incorporated into the Korean state of Goryeo (approximately in the 10th-12th centuries), after which the island received the name "Jeju". Its status was finally consolidated in the early 15th century under the Joseon Dynasty, when Jeju became an important administrative and military centre.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Initially, Tamna's economy was based on agriculture, fishing, and harvesting seafood. The island's culture developed in isolation, which was reflected even in the local language, which differed noticeably from the languages of neighbouring countries. During the Joseon Dynasty era, the island acquired a new, rather specific function — it became a place of exile for political prisoners and disgraced aristocrats. This, in turn, enriched the local culture, as educated and noble people arrived on the island. Also during this period, the island was used for horse breeding and was known for its tributes to the royal court in the form of local products, such as mandarins and abalone.

Key Milestones in the History of Jeju City

The chronicle of Jeju City is a kaleidoscope of events reflecting the transformation of an ancient island state into a modern administrative centre and a tourism gem of South Korea.

• Ancient Times: According to the legend of Samseonghyeol, three demigods emerged from the ground in the territory of the modern city, becoming the progenitors of the island's indigenous population and founding the independent state of Tamna.
• Year 476: The Kingdom of Tamna enters into an alliance with the state of Baekje on the Korean Peninsula, beginning a period of active interaction with mainland dynasties.
• Year 662: Tamna becomes a protectorate of the Kingdom of Silla, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, marking the beginning of gradual integration into the pan-Korean political system.
• Year 938: After the fall of Silla, the island passes under the protectorate of the Goryeo Dynasty while retaining significant autonomy.
• Year 1105: The Kingdom of Tamna is fully incorporated into the Goryeo state, receiving the new name "Jeju", which means "province across the sea".
• Year 1273: The island was conquered by the Mongols after the suppression of the Sambyeolcho Rebellion and became their strategic base for several decades.
• Year 1404: During the reign of the Joseon Dynasty, the island's autonomy was finally abolished, and it became a full-fledged administrative unit of the Korean state.
• 1910–1945: During the Japanese annexation of Korea, the island, like the rest of the country, was under colonial administration.
• April 3, 1948: A major popular uprising against the division of Korea broke out on the island, which was brutally suppressed and led to numerous casualties.
• Year 1955: Jeju City was officially separated from Bukjeju County (North Jeju) and received city status (si).
• 1970s: The beginning of the city's rapid development as a tourism hub, and the construction of the new district, Shin-Jeju.
• July 1, 2006: Jeju Island and Jeju City received the status of a "Special Self-Governing Province", granting the region broad administrative powers.

Key Milestones in the Development of Jeju City

The history of modern Jeju City is a journey from the administrative centre of an isolated island to one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia. The city's development was accelerated by several key events that defined its current appearance and economy.

• Obtaining Provincial Capital Status (1946): After the liberation of Korea, Jeju Island was separated into a distinct province, and Jeju City became its administrative centre. This strengthened its political and economic importance for the entire region.
• The Uprising of April 3, 1948: This tragic episode of civil conflict had a profound impact on the island's social structure. In the long term, the memory of these events became part of the cultural identity and influenced the aspiration for peace and development.
• Official City Status (1955): Jeju City was officially separated from the surrounding Bukjeju County, which was a formal recognition of its growing urbanisation and importance as an independent administrative unit.
• Start of the Tourism Boom (1970s): During this period, the South Korean government began actively developing the island as a tourist resort. The new modern district of Shin-Jeju was built in Jeju City, housing the airport, government institutions, hotels, and entertainment centres.
• Infrastructure Modernisation: The expansion and modernisation of Jeju International Airport and the seaport turned the city into the island's main transport hub, ensuring an influx of millions of tourists and the development of international trade.
• Creation of the Special Self-Governing Province (2006): The island received a unique legal status, and Jeju City was merged with Bukjeju County, significantly expanding its territory and administrative powers. This reform aimed to transform the entire island into an international free city with special economic conditions to attract investment and tourists.
• UNESCO Recognition: The designation of the volcanic island of Jeju and its lava tubes as a World Heritage Site, although applying to the whole island, dramatically increased international recognition and the prestige of Jeju City as the gateway to these unique natural attractions.

The architectural appearance of Jeju City represents a unique combination of traditional island structures, traces of rapid 20th-century modernisation, and bold experiments in contemporary architecture. Unlike many historical cities, you won't find Gothic or Baroque styles here — the city's development was defined by its isolated location, climate, and volcanic landscape.

Traditional Era: Harmony with Nature

Historical Jeju architecture was completely subordinate to harsh natural conditions, primarily strong winds. The foundations of traditional architecture were:

• Use of Local Materials: The main building material was black volcanic basalt. It was used to build not only house walls but also the famous windbreak walls known as batdam, which surrounded fields and settlements.
• Traditional "Chogajib" Houses: These were low structures with thick stone walls and low thatched roofs, which were firmly tied down with ropes to prevent them from being blown away by the wind.
• Jeju Mokgwana: The complex of the former island governor's residence is the main surviving example of official Korean architecture from the Joseon Dynasty in the city. It includes several pavilions, gates, and administrative buildings demonstrating the classical style of government structures of that time.

Modernism and Urban Development of the 20th Century

Starting from the 1970s, with the development of tourism, the city began to change rapidly. This period defined the modern dual structure of Jeju City:

• Gu-Jeju (Old City): The historical centre formed around the seaport and the Mokgwana complex. Here, a more chaotic street layout, traditional markets, and old buildings have been preserved, although many have been rebuilt.
• Shin-Jeju (New City): This district was built to the west of the old centre to accommodate new infrastructure. Its architecture is typical of late 20th-century modernism: a rectangular street grid, multi-storey hotels, wide avenues, modern government buildings, and the international airport. It was Shin-Jeju that shaped the city's current image as a major tourism hub.

Modernity and Postmodernism

In recent decades, Jeju City and its surroundings have become a platform for bold architectural projects. Modern architects are reinterpreting traditional motifs and materials to create unique objects. Futuristic private villas are appearing, such as the "Wind House" by architect Moon Hoon, alongside numerous museums and art galleries with avant-garde designs that blend harmoniously into the natural landscape. This eclecticism, where traditional stone walls sit side-by-side with concrete structures and glass facades, is the main feature of modern Jeju City's architecture.

Notable Figures Associated with Jeju City

The history and culture of Jeju Island are reflected in the destinies of many remarkable people. From mythical founders to modern artists, these individuals have left a significant mark on the history of the city and all of South Korea.

• Go Eul-na, Yang Eul-na, and Bu Eul-na — mythical progenitors. According to legend, these three demigods emerged from the Samseonghyeol caves (located in modern Jeju City) and became the founders of the ancient Kingdom of Tamna, marking the beginning of the island's history and culture.
• Kim Man-deok (1739–1812) — a female merchant and philanthropist. In the Joseon era, when social restrictions for women were very strict, she became one of the most successful entrepreneurs. During a severe famine on the island, Kim Man-deok donated her entire fortune to purchase rice, thereby saving thousands of lives and becoming a national symbol of generosity.
• Kim Jeong-hui (1786–1856) — a distinguished scholar and calligrapher. Exiled to Jeju for nearly nine years, he did not lose heart but instead created his unique "Chusa" calligraphy style here and painted the famous "Sehando". The period of exile became the pinnacle of his creative work.
• Hyun Ki-young (born 1941) — a writer and public figure. A native of Jeju, he was one of the first in Korean literature to dare to speak about the tragedy of the April 3, 1948 Uprising in his novel "Aunt Suni". His works played a key role in restoring the historical memory of these events.
• Go Doo-shim (born 1951) — a famous actress. Born on Jeju Island, she became one of the most respected and beloved actresses in South Korea, earning the unofficial title "Mother of the Nation". Her career spans decades, and she herself is a shining example of talent born on the island.
• Boo Seungkwan (born 1998) — a singer and member of the popular K-pop group SEVENTEEN. He was born in Jeju City and proudly promotes the culture and dialect of his home island on the national stage, introducing the uniqueness of Jeju to the younger generation.