5 immensely Instagramable Korean island getaways with pristine beaches, caves and coastlines
Go beyond Seoul and Busan and consider less-travelled islands like Jeju and Jindo that are full of unique, natural wonders and make up the Korean archipelago
When it comes to visiting Korea, the bulk of travellers usually head to the capital city, Seoul, and then later to the southern port city of Busan. But the country has so much more to offer than just those two well-travelled spots.
For a completely different experience, visitors may want to check out the Korean peninsula, which is made up of countless islands, each featuring idiosyncratic charm and attractions. There are picturesque turfs (some more remote than others) and so many other sites to visit, from the volcanic cave sightings and powdery white stretches on Jeju Island to more unusual but fascinating sea parting phenomena on Jindo Island. Here are the top five pristine island getaways.
Jeju Island
This volcanic island is a traveller’s favourite thanks to its countless photogenic coastlines. The area widely regarded as the most gorgeous is Hyeopjae Beach on the west side of Jeju Island due to its powdery sands and clear water expanses. Transparent, aquamarine waters dominate this stretch, as well as lava rock formations and other peculiar ash-black to grey terrain. Nearby, Geumneung Beach offers yet another tranquil sun-and-sand destination. Another natural wonder worth touring is the Manjanggul Cave, a Unesco World Heritage Site that lures countless visitors to its fascinating topography, especially the lava tunnel made of stone pillars and stalactites.
Ulleungdo Island
This volcanic island remains a beloved holiday getaway for Korean nationals. Its rugged terrain is studded with cliffs and rock formations making it ideal for outdoor activities, be it mountain climbing, hiking or even spending a day at the beach. Highlights include hiking along the Haengnam Coastal Walking Path, where you can explore the area’s coastal scenery and seaside caves near the village town of Haengnam. Like many islands on the southern coast, seafood is exceptional fare here, and Ulleungdo is the squid hub for Korea and elsewhere. Islander life revolves around this seafood dish, including the Ulleungdo Squid Festival held every summer, featuring everything from squid ink-squirting gun games to squid-catching contests at sea.
Oryukdo Island