Geology and volcanic activities of Biyangdo volcano, the northwestern part of Jeju Island, Korea

Biyangdo volcano, located in the northwestern part of Jeju Island, Korea, provides a unique example of monogenetic volcanic activity that occurred during a period of lower sea levels. The study reveals that the volcano's geological structure, composed of spatter layers, pyroclastic deposits, and pāhoehoe lava flows, formed approximately 26,000 years ago in a terrestrial environment. This volcanic activity resulted in the creation of a spatter cone, which was later eroded by wave action, leaving behind iconic landforms such as 'elephant rocks' and sea stacks. The research utilizes absolute dating techniques to estimate the age of the lava flows and examines the volcanic processes that led to the formation of these distinctive features. Biyangdo's geological history is notable for its textbook example of monogenetic volcano formation and subsequent erosion, making it a significant site within Jeju Island's UNESCO World Heritage designation.

Jeon, Y., Koh, G. W., Park, J. B., Moon, D. C., Kim, G.-P., & Ryu, C. K. (2019). Geology and volcanic activities of Biyangdo volcano, the northwestern part of Jeju Island, Korea. Journal of the Geological Society of Korea, 55(3), 291–313. https://doi.org/10.14770/jgsk.2019.55.3.291