Located in South Jeolla Province in the southwestern region of Corée du Sud, Jindo is a picturesque island that attracts thousands of visitors each year. It is renowned for its natural sites, but especially for the phenomenon known as the "Moses Miracle" that fascinates many. If you're looking to extend your stay in Corée du Sud, Jindo Island is the destination to prioritize.

History

A local legend tells of a time when Jindo Island was home to numerous tigers. These creatures had a tendency to encroach on the villages. So rather than risk being attacked, the inhabitants migrated to Modo Island. Everyone managed to leave except for an elderly woman named Ppong. With no one left to protect her, she began to pray to the goddess of the ocean to save her from the tigers and give her the chance to see her family again. Thus, in the second month of the year, Yongwang (the ocean goddess) appeared to her in a dream, saying: "Tomorrow, a rainbow will appear over the sea. Climb upon it to cross the ocean." Following the goddess's guidance, Ppong went to the shore the next day. When she reached the beach, a rainbow appeared and the sea parted in two, revealing a path so the old woman could reunite with her family. Since that day, the island's inhabitants have celebrated, each year, the Yeongdeung Festival, also known as the "Moses Miracle," in memory of Ppong.

Today, Jindo is connected to the mainland by a bridge bearing the same name. Since its completion, this structure has drawn crowds of tourists both for the beauty of its architecture and the stunning views it offers. In December 2005, a second bridge was opened. In addition to improving access to the island, this walkway is one of the finest vantage points for enjoying the sunset.

Today

Because of its size, Jindo is South Korea's third-largest island after Jejudo and Geojedo. It forms an archipelago with the 250 small islands surrounding it. This island is home to numerous attractions both historical and cultural, making it a premier tourist destination on the South Korean peninsula. It also contains several nature reserves such as the Dadohae Maritime National Park.

But what attracts most visitors to Jindo is undoubtedly the rare phenomenon that occurs each year on the 2nd and 6th months of the lunar calendar: during this period, the sea opens, revealing a passage to the mainland. This phenomenon is known as the "Moses Miracle" because of its resemblance to the story of Moses parting the sea found in Exodus. This natural phenomenon, caused by tidal differences, is accompanied by numerous festivities attracting thousands of tourists from around the globe.

Among the must-see sites on the island is also Ssanggaesa Temple. Located between two valleys and bordering Cheomchalsan Mountain, this sanctuary is a true historical treasure whose beauty has endured to this day. As you walk around the building, you'll find a path leading to a forested area designated as a national monument because of the natural treasures found there.

When to Visit?

Jindo is a destination worth visiting year-round. Indeed, the southern part of the peninsula is the country's warmest region due to its proximity to the equator. However, most visitors favor the month of February to attend the Yeongdeung Festival.

How to Get There?

From Seoul, there is no direct bus to Jindo Island. To get there, you must first reach either the city of Mokpo or Gwanju. From either of these two cities, you can find buses that will take you to Jindo. However, you'll need to be patient, as there are frequent stops before reaching your destination.