Jeju Island South Korea Travel Vykort

Dolhareubang—literally “stone grandfather” in the Jeju dialect—stand like silent sentinels along Jeju Island’s rolling lava fields and coastal trails. Carved from the island’s ubiquitous volcanic basalt, these statues typically measure around two meters tall and feature bulbous eyes, a broad, flat nose, and a subtle, knowing smile. Their hands rest demurely upon bellies, and they wear rounded hats reminiscent of mushroom caps or stagecoach seats. In centuries past, Dolhareubang were placed at village entrances and atop fortress walls to ward off malevolent spirits and protect communities; today, they symbolize Jeju’s resilient spirit and unique cultural heritage. Beyond their protective role, Dolhareubang are also linked to fertility and good fortune. Local lore holds that touching the statue’s nose or belly promotes childbearing and prosperity, and many visitors follow this tradition with playful reverence. Their smooth, weathered surfaces—polished by wind, rain, and generations of human touch—gleam softly in sunlight, offering a tactile reminder of the island’s volcanic origins. As you wander among these venerable figures, set against fields of emerald green hallabong orchards or the distant glimmer of the East China Sea, you can’t help but feel a quiet connection to Jeju’s ancient past and enduring community bonds.