Here’s a fun fact – the Korean word for island is known as ‘do (도)’ and you’re probably familiar with it thanks to Jeju-do, one of the most popular islands in South Korea. But get this, South Korea is not home to 1, not 100, but over 3,300 islands! It’s in fact, one of the top 10 countries with the most islands.
Some of them can be easily accessed from Seoul, with the islands near Incheon making perfect day trips. However, today, we’ll be taking you to Jeolla-do, which is the province located down south, home to the best food in South Korea.
Previously, a lot of these islands were inaccessible. Thanks to recent road constructions, you’ll find the islands now connected via land bridges, which makes island hopping in Jeolla-do way more convenient.
Some Islands Located in Jeolla Province
Jangdo
Jangdo is one of the many islands in Yeosu and it’s easily accessible via bridge. The most interesting fact is how the bridge goes underwater during high tide, so access to the island via walking is only available during low tide!
The island is also known as the island for art and healing, with several outdoor and indoor art galleries.
Its small size also makes it a great spot for a quick stroll, just to soak in the views of nature and the ocean. You’ll spot lots of cute art installations as you explore the island!
Admission to the island is completely free, just make sure to avoid the timings when the bridge goes underwater!
Odongdo
Another island in Yeosu is Odongdo, which is located right opposite the Yeosu-EXPO KTX Station, making it an easily accessible spot for anyone visiting the coastal city.
This island is also populated with lots of camellia trees, with peak bloom periods happening during February-March. The gorgeous blooms also gave Odongdo the nickname of ‘Dongbaek Island’ and ‘Flower Island of the Sea’.
However, if you’re not visiting the peak bloom period, no worries as the island is still gorgeous. Various viewpoints are spread across the island, with views of creeks, cliffs, and the ocean. The walking trails do consist of several ups and downs but are still relatively doable.
There’s also a lighthouse near the southern end of the island which has an amazing panoramic view of the ocean.
Nangdo
Unlike the first two islands in Yeosu, Nangdo is relatively larger and is a fishing village. The island is also further away from central Yeosu, but because of that, you can expect a more tranquil environment.
Strolling through Nangdo takes you back in time, where everything feels much simpler. There are lots of trekking trails here, and you’ll be sure to leave Nangdo with a healed heart.
One must-visit “attraction” here is Baeknyeondoga Restaurant, a spot known for its brewed non-carbonated makgeolli, bibimbap, and seasoned raw fish.
Purple Island
This is probably one of the first few islands in Jeolla-do to go viral and for good reason! Purple Island, located in Sinan, is well, an island filled with purple things – from flowers, roads, and houses to bridges, and even purple-themed food!
There is an entrance fee to the island, but it’s free if you wear something purple!
Wando
Wando is a county in Jeollanam-do, comprising multiple islands. The county is named after Wando, which happens to be the largest island within the area.
When it comes to Wando, most people associate it with abalone, which has become a sort of representative food for the country. It’s where you’ll find abalone bread – yes, a whole piece of abalone on top of bread.
Wando is also moving to become a healing island, spearheading the marine healing industry. Here, you’ll find the Wando Marine Healing Center, which is somewhat similar to a jjimjilbang, but with more healing-focused amenities like low-frequency therapy and seaweed mud wrapping therapy.
@middleclass.sg Ever played in a room full of seaweed foam?! The Wando Marine Healing Center is full of amazing amenities and facilities! #korea #koreatravel #wellness #travelkorea ♬ hey! hey! – TWS
Seonyudo
Not to be confused with the Seonyudo along the Han River, this particular island is located near Gunsan, Jeollabuk-do.
Seonyudo is an activity haven in Gunsan, especially during summer! From adrenaline-pumping ziplines to motorbike/e-bike rentals that allow you to freely explore the island, this spot is a must when visiting Gunsan.
You can also opt for bicycle rentals here, which makes traveling between spots a lot easier. If not, there are also hiking trails alongside pristine beaches which come with a great view.
Gunsan is also surprisingly popular among youths, with the city having lots of hip spots. Seonyudo has a restaurant that allows you to grill samgyeopsal right beside the beach, attracting lots of customers from the MZ generation.
The island also has a cruise that brings you around, with an unique activity onboard – a chance to feed seagulls!
Unique Things To Do In South Korea
Consider this article a small introduction to the world of Island hopping in Korea. We highly recommend exploring the region of Jeollanam-do and Jeollabuk-do and adding these islands to your itinerary! Many of these places don’t require a whole day, hence it’s best to visit other attractions within the region.
For more Korean travel inspiration, head to https://middleclass.sg/korea
*This article is done in collaboration with the Korea Tourism Organization (Singapore).
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