Paektu

Paektu, also known as Baekdu Mountain in Korean and Changbai Mountain in Chinese, is an active stratovolcano that sits on the border between North Korea and China. It is the highest peak of the Korean Peninsula and the Changbai Mountains, with an elevation around 2,744 meters (9,003 feet). The summit is crowned by Heaven Lake, a crater lake that fills the caldera formed by ancient eruptions.

Geography and geology: Paektu lies along the border, with parts in North Korea’s Paektu region and China’s Jilin Province. The volcano is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and has a long eruptive history. Its most famous eruption is traditionally dated to about 946 CE, with another major event reported in 1903; since then, activity has consisted mainly of minor fumarolic emissions and seismic unrest. The caldera lake remains a striking feature, encircling the crater and often surrounded by mist and snow.

Protection, culture, and economy: The mountain holds significant cultural importance in Korean history and folklore, where it is regarded as a sacred homeland and symbol of national identity. It is a major tourist destination, with protected areas on both sides of the border—the Chinese Changbai Mountain Nature Reserve and North Korean preserves—preserving diverse forests, wildlife, and winter landscapes. Access and tourism are influenced by cross-border relations and conservation policies.

Etymology: Baekdu means “white head,” reflecting the snow-covered peak, while Changbai translates roughly to “High White Mountain” in Chinese. The mountain’s dual naming reflects its cross-border geographic and cultural significance.