10 Best Islands in South Korea - Updated 2023

1. Jeju Island, Jeju Province (from USD 263)

Planning an exciting adventure to South Korea anytime soon? Be sure to add the famous Jeju Island on your list of places to visit. Nesting in Korea Strait, Jeju Island is a breathtaking Korean province that is known for its jaw-dropping natural wonders. This side of Korea is known for its gorgeous beaches with fine white sand, enchanting waterfalls, and a scenic dormant volcano — also the tallest peak in the whole country. Jeju Island is perfect for tourists who want to go on a less-crowded side of the country where they can relax and unwind to their heart’s content.

2. Geoje Island, South Gyeongsang Province (from USD 41)

Geoje Island is also known as Geojedo among locals. It nestles in Geo City, a stunning hub in Gyeongsangnam-do Province. This island is linked to Tongyeong through bridges. Once you get to the island, you will be overwhelmed with its incomparable beauty. Endless coasts of breathtaking beaches circles the island. It boasts majestic cliffs that are rich in vegetation where tourists can unwind, enjoy the views, and take as many souvenir pictures as possible. Aside from delightful beaches, Geoje Island is also known for its military heritage.

3. Hongdo Island, Jeollanam-do Province

Hongdo Island is located in Jeollanam-do Province of South Korea, with the Yellow Sea surrounding it. Just like Geoje Island and Jeju Island, this paradise is known for its remarkable beaches and resorts that are a melting pot for tourists wanting to escape the busy city life. More so, steep mountain ranges are visible on the island. Gitdaebong is the tallest of all the mountains in Hongdo Island. When translated to English, the name Hongdo means “Red Island” — a clear nod to the red color of its rocky outcroppings. Aside from its landscape and natural wonders, this island is home to an abundance of flora and fauna.

4. Jindo, Jindo County

Situated in Jindo County, Jindo is another exceptional island that you should not miss on your upcoming South Korean adventure. Jindo County is an archipelagic region with 230 little islands and 45 habitable islands, including Jindo Island itself. Its name derived from a certain breed of canine, which originated in this province. From the mainland, tourists need to take a lengthy cable-stayed bridge to get to Jindo Island. When you get to the area, you’ll find pristine beaches with a mountainous backdrop, which the island came to be known for.

5. Ulleungdo, Ulleung County (from USD 68)

Make the most out of your travel plans in South Korea by visiting Ulleungdo after a satisfying vacation in Jindo. Located to the eastern end of mainland South Korea, this island is a breathtaking paradise and an extension of heaven on earth. Here, you’ll find the Seonginbong Mountain Range that will charm you with its lush, forested base. Plus, there are enchanting beaches as well, but it is most notable for its Bongnae Waterfall with a three-tiered facade. More so, it also has scenic cliffs with sweeping views of the endless ocean. If you want the best views on the island, swing by Dodong Lighthouse and fall in love even more with Ulleughdo.

Cottage in 울릉군 · ★4.81 · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 bath

울릉군, 경상북도, South Korea
363.48 km (225.9 mi) from Windy Hill

132 reviews  

Entire cottage 1 Bed 8 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 8

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6. Muuido Island, Incheon

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Also referred to as Muui Island, Muuido Island is located in Incheon, South Korea. It is located near Yongyu Island, and it is relatively smaller in size compared to the first five islands on this list. This island can be seen from Incheon International Airport. Muuido Island is home to lovely beaches with fine sands. Additionally, the beaches have excellent fishing spots. Aside from swimming and fishing, the island has safe hiking trails for tourists who want to reconnect with nature and do cardio activities, all at the same time. On top of those, you’ll find lots of superb eateries on the island.

7. Seonyudo, Seoul

If you are looking for a must-visit tourist destination in the capital city of South Korea, Seonyudo should be in your travel itinerary. It is a charming island in the Han River that is dominated by the ecological Seonyudo Park. It is a captivating oasis and an escape from the busy lifestyle of downtown Seoul. The island is home to numerous enchanting gardens where you can unwind and admire nature. During the summer and spring seasons, the place is at its most vibrant due to the lovely colors of vegetation at its full bloom. The autumn season beautifies Seonyudo with more earth-toned hues that are just as lovely to see.

8. Gwanmaedo, South Jeolla Province

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The last but definitely not least of must-visit islands in South Korea on this list is Gwanmaedo. You can find it in South Jeolla Province and it is famous for its stellar Gwanmaedo Beach. Aside from swimming and sunbathing until you achieve your desired tan, you can go on exciting hikes and camping adventures in the pine-forested areas by the beach. One travel advice when you visit the island: be sure to come prepared with food because eateries are not as plentiful in Gwanmaedo.

9. Oedo Island, Gyeongsangnam-do Province (from USD 99.0)

Nesting in Geoje City on the southern side of the province of Gyeongsangnam-do, Oedo Island is an ideal destination during the summer and spring season. Considered the second-largest island in the country, this paradise boasts picturesque landscapes with forested areas and pristine coastlines. Besides its breathtaking beaches and marvelous landscapes, you’ll find remarkable Mediterranean-influenced structures on the island. With its breathtaking beauty, it is no wonder that it is one of the favorite filming locations for most Korean dramas. Transportation to Oedo is a piece of cake as it is within close proximity to the highly urbanized city of Busan.

Enchanting Oedo Island Day Tour from Busan

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10. Udo, Jeju (from USD 53)

Udo Island is a smaller version of Jeju Island, and it nestles in Jeju City. It is characterized by its landscape that resembles a cow lying down. Its name literally translates to “cow island”. Udo is home to various beaches. Some beaches have white sand, while others boast fascinating black sand. More so, it has cliffs with picturesque views that you normally see on holiday cards and romantic lighthouses — you’ll surely take tons of souvenir pictures here. On top of these, flower fields are rampant on this side of Jeju, making it seem like a setting from Alice and the Wonderland.

Fall in love with South Korea's breathtaking islands

South Korea is a gorgeous East Asian Country. Its nickname, The Land of the Morning Calm, reflects its breathtaking islands and scenic natural parks. This country has a lot to offer for all types of tourists — whether you are the tech-savvy type, a foodie, a nature-lover, an adventure-seeker, or even into luxurious offerings. If you plan to the country to reconnect with nature and do as many outdoor activities as possible, use this list as your guide in planning the perfect itinerary.