We all are well aware of the enchanting experiences that South Korea has to offer for the millions of visitors who tour the nation every year, This includes the bustling modern cities that boast cosmopolitanism to the rich heritages of antiquities and culture. But underneath such many allures is a glittering galaxy of wonders scattered around the oceans that surrounds Korea. Island hopping is an adventure that is never to be missed.
When the first daylight of dawn gets dispersed through the looming clouds above the 3,358 or so officially affirmed islands of South Korea, a sense of tranquility and serenity arises in the hearts of the visitors. A celestial orchestra assembled by nature’s finest artists, that is the high-rising volcanic peaks and steep mountains that guard the coastal treasures. All while the oceans gaze upon the majestic amuses found far from the mainland.
Here are some great many wonders to discover South Korea’s Enchanting Off-shore Treasures
Jindo Island
Jindo Island is the third largest island in South Korea. The paradise in Jindo Island comprises 250 smaller islands, all conforming together to offer a spectacular holiday vacation for visitors. The island is famed for many unique charms and one of them is the ancient breed of Korean hunting dogs only found here, the Jindo dogs. But the most iconic of all the attractions is the appearance of a dry road in the middle of the sea from February to June.
Known as the “The Miracle of Moses” because it resembles the passage in the Old Testament in the Book of Exodus, this is an event that produces a surreal atmosphere. One can easily walk along this narrow strip of land that emerges during low tide and head towards the nearby Modo Island. Jindo Island and witnessing the Moses Walk is arguably one of the must-visit Island experiences you can have in South Korea.
Ulleungdo
Ulleungdo is a hidden gem off the coast of the eastern sea. It is an off-the-beat destination surrounded by dramatic cliffs, lush green forests, and clear blue waters. All coming together and adding their charm to bring the upbeat life alive in Ulleungdo. This volcanic island is the major fishery point on the eastern coast. Don’t miss out on experiencing the spirit of true island life by walking along the stretches of the Haengnam Coastal Walking path.
Once the sightseeing and leisure time is done and dusted after a fine day. Seek out the majestic scenery of cliffs and rounded peaks along the jagged coastline crowned with soft white beaches and the deep blue water of the Eastern Sea. The 120 km Seaside Road off the eastern coast of South Korea would be the perfect spot for such an adventure. Ulleungdo with its pristine natural landscape is one of the best islands in korea.
Geoje Island
Located in the southern part of Korea in the Gyeongsang province, Geoje Island is the second largest island in the country. A secluded island that presents itself with its rolling hills and tranquility. The main spectacle of the island is the historic Oedo-Botanic Island, a botanical garden on the sea. Geoje Island is a must-visit island in korea for those looking for a serene escape and a peaceful retreat.
Although Geoje is more of an island than a city, it is still dubbed the “Blue City”. The island is known not only for its colossal shipbuilding industry but also for its natural beauty and picturesque attractions. This includes the magnificent Haegeumgang rock formations, the grassy green hill by the sea called the “Hill of the Wind” and also the stunningly beautiful Hakdong Black Pearl Mongdol Beach.
Udo Island
Udo Island, located just 3.5 kilometers off the coast of Jeju Island, is home to South Korea’s only coral beach. The island got its name Udo( meaning “cow island” in Hanja) because it resembles a cow lying down. A hike to the highest point of the Island at Udobong Peak will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the island as well as the Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff cone.
In 2001, the Udo Maritime Park was introduced to protect and promote the maritime diversity of the island. In the shade of the giant black-lava cliffs is Seobin Beach, the only coral beach in South Korea. The beach also has a towering lighthouse on its shores that offers a spectacular view of the surrounding towns and fields.
Hongdo Island
Off the coast of Korea’s southern province in the Jeollanam-do province is the Hongdo Island. It is composed of approximately 20 islands. The name Hongdo(Red Island) is derived from the unique reddish-brown color that takes over the island shores during the sun sets. As it is one of the must-visit islands in korea it is recommended to take a boat tour around the island.
This is one of the easily accessible islands in Korea with Mokpo Harbor being just 115 kilometers to the southwest. Bordered by towering sea cliffs on all sides, Hongdo Island has some remarkable sightseeing adventures. Nammun Rock, Seokhwagul Cave, and Hongdosipkyeong are some of the best destinations on the island. Since 1991, Hongdo Island has become a part of Dadohae Marine National Park.
Muuido Island
Muuido Island, also known by the name Muui Island, is so close to the Incheon airport that one can easily spot it from the plane itself. It is without a doubt one of the most easily accessible islands in Korea. Nearby Muuido Island is another two smaller islands named Somuuido Island and Silmido Island. Both of them are accessible from the main islands. This is one of the best beaches in korea to enjoy a delightful vacation.
The island is well known for its magnificent beaches. Among them, the most famous ones are Hanagae Beach and Silmi Beach. An interesting event in Silmi Beach is that people can walk to Silmido Island during low tides. If you are looking for a good hike with the desire to see the beauty of nature from the high cliffs then try out the hiking pathways through Horyonggoksan Mountain and Guksabong Peak.
Seonyudo Island
Far away from the urban life and crowds, Seonyudo Island is a hidden treasure of South Korea. Blessed with a serene coastline and captivating beauty, this island is a perfect destination for adventure seekers to indulge in activities such as hiking, trekking, and zipline rides. Daejangbong Peak offers stunning visuals of the surrounding area where visitors can rejuvenate and marvel at nature.
Seonyudo Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in korea during the summer season. The islands lies in the heart of the Gogunsan Archipelago which adds more diversity to its topography. Neighboring islands such as Munyeodo, Jangjado, and Daejangdo are all connected by bridge and visitors can easily cover all of them on foot or a bicycle.
Yeouido Island
Among the many off-the-shore wonders of Korea, Yeouido is a large island located not off the coast, but rather in the Han River in Seoul. The island is famous for its packed iconic buildings and locations that hold much importance in the history and culture of South Korea. It contains the city’s main business and finance districts and is home to the National Assembly Building and Korea’s iconic 63 Building, the tallest gold-clad structure in the world.
The island is always in the midst of some celebrations. During the months of spring, the streets burst with thousands of blooming cherry blossom trees. It is also home to the much-famed Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival. Another great event celebrated here is the annual Yeouido Fireworks Festival, an international event held in front of the 63 building. Visitors can round up the island exploration by spending some leisure time at Yeouido Park.
Jeju Island
There are three thousand and more off-the-shore treasures in South Korea. Then there is the largest among them, Jeju Island, crowned as the most magnificent of all the islands in the country. With its many cameos in dramas and movies, it is without a doubt the most sought-after exotic destination in Korea. The majestic Hallasan Mountain standing at a height of 1,950 meters is the island’s major attraction.
A hike into the wilds of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak in the early morning hours will be rewarded with the golden hues of sunrise reflecting on the shallow blue waters. Daepo Jusangjeoli Cliff is another iconic location that attracts most tourists. A sunset at the famous Hamdeok Beach and a walk down the crowded Dongmun Market to fill your bags with souvenirs will be a picture-perfect end to this great odyssey.
