Located 120 kilometers off the east coast of Korea, Ulleungdo Island is known for its peaceful blue waves, beautiful mountain scenery, and breathtaking sunsets.
About Ulleungdo Island Korea
Located 120 kilometers off the east coast of Korea, Ulleungdo (also known as Ulleungdo Island; 울릉도 in Korean) is a remote but absolutely stunning island. Many people refer to this place as “mysterious island” and Ulleungdo is a trip that most Koreans wish they could take at some point in their lives.
Ulleungdo Island Korea
The base of the Korean island of Ulleungdo is a stratovolcano that gives the island the distinctive steep cliffs surrounding it. The coastal path that runs along the edge of Ulleungdo offers great views of the breathtaking cliffs and vast coastline.
Honestly, there is no place like it in Korea, not even Jeju Island. And yet, Ulleungdo is still relatively unknown outside of Korea. With many hills, the island is a popular spot for climbing. You will find lots of activities to do here such as scuba diving, snorkeling, biking, camping, etc.
This island possesses a unique beauty that other islands do not have. @hye0_09
How to get to Ulleungdo . Island
Ulleungdo Island is not unreachable but it is quite remote. Currently building an airport on the island is expected to be completed in 2025. The only way to reach the island is by ferry.
You can catch a ferry to Ulleungdo from four ports in South Korea: Gangneung in the north, Mukho in Donghae in the north, Hupo in the middle of the east coast, and Pohang in the south. The easiest and fastest way to get to Ulleungdo from Seoul is to catch an intercity bus or KTX to Gangneung, then take a ferry from there.
Please note that the number of ferries per day and per month varies, especially between high and low season. The daily ferries below are based on spring and summer numbers.
Ferry from Gangneung to Ulleungdo
Ferries between Gangneung Anmok and Jeodong Port (Korean only) on Ulleungdo Island usually go only once a day with two ferries on certain days. A standard one-way ticket costs 61,000 won (~$45 USD). This journey is about 170km long and takes about 3 hours.
Ferry from Mukho to Ulleungdo
Ferries between Mukho and Dodong Port (Korean only) usually run once a day and twice a day on Sundays. A standard one-way ticket costs 60,000 (~$44 USD). The distance between the two ports is 161km and takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to travel.
Ferry from Hupo to Ulleungdo
Ferries between Hupo and Jeodong Port usually run once a day and twice a day on Sundays. A standard one-way ticket costs about 60,000 won (~$44 USD). These two ports are 159km apart and take about 2.5 hours.
Ferry from Pohang to Ulleungdo
Ferries between Pohang and Dodong Port (Korean only) usually run once a day. A standard one-way ticket costs 69,500 won (~$51 USD). This route is about 217km long and takes up to 3.5 hours to travel.
You can only reach the island by ferry
The best things to do on Ulleungdo
Cycling around the coastal road
One of the best things to do on Ulleungdo Island is enjoy the view along the coastal path. The cliffs and sea make for a dramatic scene unlike any other in Korea. If you are going around Ulleungdo by bike then this is very easy. Just follow the coastal path and stop at any scene that invites you.
Some famous spots along the coastal road include Candle Rock (Chotdaeam/Chotdae Bawi;촛대암/촛대바위), Elephant Rock (Gongam; 공암) and Turtle Rock (Geobuk Bawi; 거북바위).
Cycling is a popular activity on Ulleungdo Island
Stroll along the Haengnam Seaside Walk
Haengnam Seaside Walkway (행남 해안산책로) is a lovely walking path that goes from the Dodong port area to Haengnam village. The stretch of road winds its way along the waters of Ulleungdo, even zigzagging through some caves for a more dramatic view of the ocean. Note that some points along the way will have stairs. So be careful when going up and down.
Take a scenic walk along the Haengnam Seaside Walk
Go to Bongnae Waterfall
Bongnae Waterfall in Ulleungdo Island is a source of fresh water in the area used for drinking. It is a three-tiered waterfall, 25 meters high. The waterfall is located 2 km from Jeodo Port. The path leading to the waterfall is well preserved and you will find some old juniper trees. Not only that, there is also a small dining area and restroom. The best part is that there is an observatory in the waterfall to make your visit to Ulleungdo memorable.
Bongnae Waterfall. @ynoiojn
Hiking up Seonginbong Mountain
Seonginbong (성인봉) is the highest peak of the Korean island of Ulleungdo and also an inactive volcano. This 984 meter high peak is located in the center of the island. The foothills of Seonginbong Mountain is covered by a cool primeval forest, home to some rare plant species in Ulleungdo. Here are a number of recommended hiking courses related to Seonginbong, all of which start in Dodong. Trips are almostlasted from 6-10 hours.
Spectacular beauty at Seonginbong Mountain. @seulowlee
Admire the scenery at Nari Basin
The Nari Basin (나리분지) is Ulleungdo's only flat land, in the north central part of the island. Nari Basin is actually a caldera formed by volcanic activity around Seonginbong.
You can easily reach the Nari Basin area by car and bus as there are direct roads to it. This peaceful area offers some beautiful views of the mountains surrounding the crater.
Nari Basin Làng Village
Visit Dokdo đảo Island
If you want to do something more unique, take a tour to the island of Dokdo. Cruises will circle the islands, and if the weather is good you can get off the boat and spend about half an hour in Dongdo, the eastern island.
The boat tour to Dokdo lasts about 3.5 hours. The journey to Dokdo takes about 1.5 hours one way with about half an hour on or around the islands. Dokdo cruise tickets start at 60,000 won (~$44 USD). Remember to bring identification with you in case they check it before you get on the boat.
Take the cable car to Dokdo Observatory
Dokdo Island Observation Deck cable car is where visitors will get a panoramic view of Ulleungdo Island. This is experience not to be missed on any visit to the island. Nestled in Dodong Yaksu Park, the cable car takes you to Manghyangbong Peak, where on clear days you can see as far as Dokdo Island, located about 92 km away.
Take the cable car to the Dokdo observatory. @mjroute
Eat seafood
Fishing is one of the biggest industries of Ulleungdo Island so people here love to eat seafood and the sea is also rich and fresh. Especially in this island famous for squid. In addition, Dokdo shrimp, conch and oysters are also specialties of Ulleungdo that are loved by many visitors.
Coming to Ulleungdo must definitely enjoy fresh seafood
Catch the sunrise/sunset
Korea's Ulleungdo Island offers visitors a number of spectacular sunset spots thanks to its striking cliffs, mountains, and forests. There are a number of specific spots dedicated for sunrise and sunset viewing such as Naesujeon Sunrise Observatory (내수전 ), Namseo Sunset Observatory (남서 ) and Cheonbu Sunset Observatory ( ).
The observatory enjoys a captivating sunset view. @iamhappyy
