Jeju Island: South Korea’s Volcanic Paradise
Introduction
Nestled off the southern coast of South Korea, Jeju Island (also known as Jeju-do) is an enchanting volcanic island that offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern leisure. Known for its pristine beaches, majestic waterfalls, lava tubes, and the iconic Hallasan Mountain, Jeju is often referred to as the “Hawaii of South Korea.”
Whether you are a solo traveler, honeymooner, nature enthusiast, or culture explorer, Jeju Island has something to offer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the geography, history, major attractions, and travel tips for experiencing Jeju Island like a local.
Geography and General Information
Where Is Jeju Island Located?
Jeju Island lies in the Korea Strait, approximately 85 km off the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula. It is the largest island in South Korea and home to some of its most stunning natural scenery.
Quick Facts About Jeju Island
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Country | South Korea |
| Province | Jeju Special Self-Governing Province |
| Area | 1,848 km² |
| Population | Approx. 675,000 |
| Highest Point | Hallasan Mountain (1,947 meters) |
| Language | Korean (with Jeju dialect) |
| Currency | South Korean Won (₩) |
| UNESCO World Heritage | Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes (2007) |
Historical and Cultural Background
A Brief History of Jeju
Jeju has a rich cultural history distinct from mainland Korea. Historically isolated due to its geographical location, Jeju developed unique customs, dialects, and matriarchal traditions.
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Tamna Kingdom ruled Jeju before becoming part of Goryeo in the 11th century.
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It was often used for exile by the royal court due to its remote location.
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Jeju women, known as Haenyeo (sea divers), are renowned for free-diving to harvest seafood—a cultural icon recognized by UNESCO.
Cultural Highlights
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Jeju Folk Village: Recreates traditional lifestyles with thatched-roof houses and cultural demonstrations.
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Jeju’s Shamanic Traditions: Offer a spiritual perspective on the island's folklore and rituals.
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Jeju Stone Statues (Dol Hareubang): Believed to ward off evil spirits, these are found across the island.
Top Attractions on Jeju Island
Natural Wonders Not to Miss
Jeju Island is full of natural beauty, and here are the must-see attractions:
List: Top 10 Attractions on Jeju Island
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Hallasan Mountain – South Korea’s tallest peak, great for hiking with stunning crater views.
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Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) – A tuff cone ideal for watching sunrise.
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Manjanggul Lava Tube – One of the world’s finest lava tunnels.
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Jeongbang Waterfall – A rare waterfall that falls directly into the ocean.
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Cheonjiyeon Waterfall – Surrounded by lush greenery and mythological legends.
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Seopjikoji Coastline – Famed for its cliffs and canola flower fields.
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Udo Island – A small island near Jeju with coral beaches and bike trails.
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Loveland – A quirky sculpture park for adults.
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Jeju Olle Trails – A series of walking paths covering over 400 km around the island.
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Yongmeori Coast – Dramatic cliffs and rocky formations shaped like a dragon’s head.
Experiencing Local Culture
Food, Festivals, and Traditions
Jeju Island offers a distinctive taste of Korean culture with a twist of island influence.
Traditional Jeju Cuisine
| Dish Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Black Pork BBQ | Grilled pork from Jeju's native black pigs |
| Abalone Porridge (Jeonbokjuk) | Rich and creamy seafood porridge |
| Hairtail Fish Stew | A spicy local fish soup popular on cold days |
| Jeju Tangerines | Sweet, seedless citrus fruits grown widely on the island |
Local Festivals
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Jeju Fire Festival (March) – Celebrates agricultural tradition by burning fields to chase away evil.
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Jeju Canola Flower Festival (April) – Fields covered in bright yellow blooms.
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Jeju Haenyeo Festival (October) – Honors the island’s women divers and their cultural contribution.
Where to Stay in Jeju
Accommodation Options
| Type | Recommended For | Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Resorts | Honeymooners, luxury seekers | Jungmun, Seogwipo |
| Mid-Range Hotels | Families, business travelers | Jeju City, Seogwipo |
| Guesthouses | Solo travelers, budget tourists | Aewol, Seongsan, Olle Trails |
| Hanok Stays | Cultural enthusiasts | Jeju Folk Village |
Transportation and Accessibility
How to Get to and Around Jeju
Getting to Jeju Island
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By Air: The most convenient route is via Jeju International Airport (CJU) from Seoul (Gimpo), Busan, or international hubs like Tokyo or Shanghai.
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By Ferry: From cities like Mokpo or Wando (longer but scenic route).
Transportation on the Island
| Mode | Advantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | Maximum flexibility and time-saving | Families, road-trippers |
| Public Bus | Affordable and reliable routes | Budget travelers, locals |
| Taxi | Convenient for short distances | Short stays, non-drivers |
| Bike Rentals | Eco-friendly and scenic routes | Udo Island, Jeju Olle Trails |
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Jeju’s Weather and Seasonal Highlights
Jeju experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons.
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | March–May | Cherry blossoms, canola flowers |
| Summer | June–August | Beach activities, water sports |
| Autumn | September–November | Clear skies, perfect hiking |
| Winter | December–February | Snow-capped Hallasan, off-season rates |
Travel Tips for Jeju Island Visitors
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Book rental cars in advance, especially during peak seasons.
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Use Naver Maps for navigation (Google Maps isn’t reliable in Korea).
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Carry cash – not all remote locations accept cards.
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Respect Haenyeo traditions and don’t disturb them while working.
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Try local street food in Seogwipo and Dongmun Market.
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Stay at least 3–5 days to explore both the north and south of the island.
Sustainability and Eco-Tourism
Jeju’s Efforts Toward a Greener Future
Jeju Island is actively working toward becoming a Carbon-Free Island by 2030. Efforts include:
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Widespread use of electric vehicles (EVs)
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Promotion of eco-friendly tourism
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Conservation of natural habitats and marine ecosystems
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Investment in renewable energy sources
As a visitor, you can contribute by reducing waste, choosing green accommodations, and respecting local nature trails and marine life.
Conclusion
Jeju Island is more than just a vacation spot—it's a living cultural landscape, a geological wonder, and a testament to Korean resilience and tradition. With its UNESCO sites, rich history, world-class hiking, and mouth-watering cuisine, Jeju continues to enchant travelers from across the globe.
Whether you're climbing Hallasan, diving into the seas like a Haenyeo, or sipping tangerine juice by the coastline, Jeju offers an experience unlike anywhere else. It’s a destination where time slows down, and every moment feels meaningful.
