5 Islands to Visit in South Korea
Jeju is often the first island that comes to mind when thinking of the Korean peninsula... Yet the country is brimming with many other paradisiacal islets!
Jeju is often the first island that comes to mind when thinking of the Korean peninsula... Yet the country is brimming with many other paradisiacal islets! From Ganghwa-do to Ulleungdo: here are the most beautiful islands to visit in South Korea, along with their must-see spots...
1. Ganghwa-do Island
The fifth-largest island in South Korea, Ganghwado (or Kanghwa) is located on the country's west coast. Accessible in less than two hours by car from Seoul, it is connected to the mainland by the Ganghwa Bridge and the Ganghwa Choji Bridge.
The island is renowned for its exceptionally rich historical heritage. The reason for this wealth? Inhabited since prehistoric times, Ganghwado has preserved its ancestral sites and today boasts one of the country's largest dolmens: the Goindol dolmen – with its impressive megalith standing 2.60 m high and 7 m long!
During your visit, you can also discover:
● Chamseong Altar. Constructed around 4000 years ago, this edifice dates back to the era of the Gojoseon kingdom. Each October, religious ceremonies are held here in honor of Dangun – the founder of the kingdom. Perched atop Mount Mani-san, the altar offers breathtaking views of the Gyeonggi region.
● Jeondeungsa Temple. Built in the 4th century, this magnificent Buddhist monument stands within the Jeongjoksanseong fortress.
● The Han River (also known as Hangang) and its verdant landscapes.
● The Ganghwa Peace Observatory. This observatory allows visitors to admire North Korea's natural environment through a high-precision telescope.
2. Geoje Island (and Oe-do)
Spanning nearly 400 km², Geojedo (or Geoje) is South Korea's second-largest island after Jeju. It is connected to the mainland by the Busan-Geoje bridge, which overlooks the East China Sea – and illuminates beautifully at night. Renowned for the beauty of its beaches and cliffs, Geoje Island has several sites worth discovering…
● Windy Hill. Although not a historic mill, Windy Hill offers an extraordinary 360° view around Dopojang village. Standing on a hillside, it provides stunning photo opportunities and pleasant sea breezes... It's also a well-known filming location in South Korea (featured in several series).
● Hammok and Hakdong Mongdol beaches. These are two beautiful pebble beaches. The first (less frequented) is located near the mill, while the second (on the island's north side) is, by contrast, very popular.
● Wahyeon beach. This beach is one of the most sought-after on Geojedo. Why? Its long stretch of fine sand – which is quite rare on the island!
● The Botanical Garden Jungle Dome. This vast garden houses a wide variety of tropical plants, as well as ponds and waterfalls. A magnificent immersion into the jungle in the heart of Geoje!
● OEDO Botania. Oe-do is a stunning botanical island, accessible by ferry from Geoje. Its garden is divided into two distinct sections: one with Mediterranean features and a second, wilder area, where the Venus Garden is located (considered one of the island's most beautiful spots).
3. Namhae Island
Located in the Gyeongsang region, Namhae Island is renowned for the diversity of its wild landscapes and dramatic cliffs. Yet the islet also allows visitors to discover:
● Gacheon Village. This charming little village is dotted with superb terraced rice fields, ascending some hundred levels!
● The Boriam Temple. Situated atop a hillside, this religious complex is greatly cherished by locals, as it is believed to fulfill wishes... You can also admire the Bodhisattva statue – an iconic symbol of Buddhism. Perched facing the sea, the temple offers breathtaking views of the ocean…
● Hallyeohaesang Maritime National Park. This natural area is renowned for its panoramic views and hiking trails around Mount Geumsan.
● Sangju Eunmorae Beach. This beach is popular for its fine sandy bank and relaxed atmosphere.
4. Marado Island
Marado Island is an island located off the coast of Jeju-do province. Blessed with exceptional marine beds, the island is a nature reserve that can be explored in just a few hours – due to its small size of 0.3 km²! During your excursion, you will have the opportunity to:
● Visit the Mara-do Catholic Church. This is a church with a (most) distinctive architecture that alone deserves a stop on the island! The roof of the religious edifice is said to resemble an abalone shell (one of the region's signature shellfish...).
● Enjoy jajangmyeon. The island is renowned for having the best jajangmyeon restaurant, a noodle-based specialty very popular in South Korea (particularly eaten during Black Day – the singles' holiday!).
● Observe endemic flora and fauna. Marado Island is home to around a hundred wild flowers (thriving in rocky crevices) as well as numerous bird species, such as the Warbler and the magnificent Crested Drongo!
● Marado Lighthouse and its panorama.
Note that you can rent electric bikes near the ferry terminal once you arrive.
Spotlight on Jeju Island The Jeju Island is one of South Korea's most sought-after islands. The reasons for its success are numerous: ● lush and blooming landscapes, ● tea plantations, ● postcard-perfect beaches (Hamdeok, Hyeopjae, Jungmun), ● enchanting waterfalls (including Cheonjiyeon Falls) This island deserves its ranking among the 7 Wonders of Nature! Its other advantage? This volcanic island is home to the Hallasan volcano and the Geomunoreum volcano, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Jeju is also a must-visit for all hiking enthusiasts, with emblematic trails, such as the Gwaneumsa trail. |
5. Ulleungdo Island
Bathed in the Sea of Japan, on the country's east coast, venture to discover Ulleungdo: a small volcanic island spanning just 73 km²! Cherished for its wild character, the islet is ideal for trekking around the mountainous peak of Seonginbong. The most popular trail? The Haengnam coastal hike!
Ulleungdo Island also features several emblematic attractions, such as:
● The Taehahyangmok Tourist Monorail. This is a monorail observatory offering visitors a panoramic and immersive view into nature!
● Elephant Rock. A rock formation shaped like a pachyderm, renowned for its sunset.
● Spectacular cliffs, towering over the sea and offering multiple panoramic views.
● Mushroom rock. Named for its mushroom-shaped sedimentary layer, this rock formation, located on the island's east coast, is worth lingering over.
● Turtle Rock. Thanks to its topography, Ulleungdo Island is home to spectacular seabeds. Turtle Rock ranks among the finest spots for snorkeling. This rocky mass erodes over time. So, don't be surprised if you struggle to distinguish a turtle shape…
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to go to South Korea?
French and European Union citizens are exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 90 days. Overall, administrative procedures for traveling to South Korea are fairly straightforward for a tourist visit.
What is the best time to visit South Korea?
The 4 seasons are quite distinct in South Korea, with rather harsh and windy winters, and hot summers (≥ 30°C). Spring and autumn are milder seasons more conducive to cultural visits... Note, however, that South Korea is also an excellent ski destination!
Frequently asked questions
The duration depends on each island. Marado, being very small (0.3 km²), can be explored in a half-day. Geoje and Ganghwa deserve 1 to 2 days each. Ulleungdo and Namhae ideally require 2 to 3 days to enjoy the hikes and natural sites. Plan for a minimum of 8 to 10 days to visit them all.
All islands have their unique character. Ulleungdo captivates with its wild and volcanic nature, ideal for trekking. Geoje impresses with the beauty of its cliffs and beaches. Namhae charms with its terraced rice fields and perched temples. The choice depends on your preferences: nature, culture, or relaxation.
To reach Ulleungdo, you must first travel to Pohang or Gangneung by train or bus from Seoul, then take a ferry. The crossing takes approximately 3 hours from Pohang. It is recommended to book the ferry in advance, especially during peak season, as seats may be limited.
Yes, several islands are family-friendly. Geoje offers botanical gardens and accessible beaches. Marado is ideal for a fun short excursion from Jeju. Ganghwa provides an enriching cultural experience for children. Ulleungdo is more recommended for families with older children who enjoy hiking.
Speaking Korean is not essential, but it facilitates travel in less touristy areas. On larger islands like Geoje, English is sometimes spoken in hotels and restaurants. It is recommended to download a translation app and have place names written in hangul (Korean alphabet) to ease your travels.
