· KR

Jeju

Jeju, Jeju, Korea, South

Escape to Jeju: Where Volcanic Beauty Meets Island Charm Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beckons travelers with its promise of emerald waters, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and a unique cultural tapestry. Loca…

#Island#Tourism#Volcanic#Beaches#Hiking

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Jeju.

Top Hotels in Jeju

Top Flights to Jeju

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Jeju.

Tours

Manjanggul Cave Exploration

Discover one of the finest lava tunnels in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stretching nearly 9 kilometers.

Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak

Climb to the top of this volcanic tuff cone for a breathtaking sunrise view, a World Heritage Site.

Visit Jeju Folk Village Museum

Step back in time and experience traditional Jeju culture, architecture, and lifestyle in this open-air museum.

Shopping

Shop at Dongmun Traditional Market

Experience a bustling traditional market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and handicrafts.

Outdoor

Explore Hallasan National Park

Hike South Korea's highest mountain, Hallasan, located in the center of Jeju Island. Marvel at diverse flora and fauna along picturesque trails.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Jeju.

Currency

₩ | KRW | South Korean Won

Population

700,000

Languages

Korean, Korean, Jeju

Average weather

Jeju

Jan

8°2°

Feb

9°3°

Mar

12°5°

Apr

16°9°

May

20°13°

Jun

23°18°

Jul

28°23°

Aug

29°24°

Sep

26°20°

Oct

21°15°

Nov

16°10°

Dec

11°5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Jeju.

What people love

Jeju Island, located in South Korea, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty and unique culture. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Jeju:

Natural Wonders: Jeju is home to beautiful beaches, lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and stunning waterfalls. Visitors can explore the natural wonders of the island, including Hallasan, South Korea's highest mountain, and the iconic Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Jeju Island has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Hallasan National Park, Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone, and Geomunoreum Lava Tube System. These sites offer a glimpse into the island's geological and cultural history.
Unique Culture: Jeju has a rich cultural heritage with its own language, traditions, and customs. Visitors can experience traditional Jeju folk performances, try local cuisine like black pork and Jeju mandarin oranges, and learn about the island's history at museums and cultural sites.
Outdoor Activities: Jeju is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and water sports. The island's diverse landscapes provide ample opportunities for adventure and exploration.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Jeju is known for its laid-back atmosphere and slower pace of life, making it a perfect destination for those looking to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy the island's peaceful surroundings, fresh air, and rejuvenating hot springs.

Overall, traveling to Jeju Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a memorable and enriching experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Jeju, South Korea, may include:

Language barrier: While many people in Jeju can speak some English, the primary language is Korean. This could pose a challenge for travelers who do not speak Korean.
Limited public transportation: Jeju's public transportation system is not as extensive as in major cities like Seoul. Travelers may find it difficult to navigate the island without a car rental.
Crowds during peak season: Jeju is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons like summer and cherry blossom season. This means that attractions and accommodations may be crowded, and prices could be higher.
Weather extremes: Jeju's weather can be unpredictable, with typhoons and heavy rainfall occurring during certain times of the year. Travelers should be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Limited dining options for vegetarians/vegans: Korean cuisine is predominantly meat-based, so vegetarians and vegans may find it challenging to find suitable food options in Jeju.

Overall, traveling to Jeju can be a wonderful experience, but being aware of these potential cons can help travelers better prepare for their trip.

Jeju Island, known as Jeju-do, is the largest island off the coast of the Korean Peninsula and a province of South Korea. It has a unique and rich history that spans centuries, marked by significant events, historical figures, and landmark sites.

Ancient and Medieval History:

Tamna Kingdom: Jeju was once home to the Tamna Kingdom, which existed from around the 1st century until it became part of the Korean kingdom of Silla in 938 AD. Tamna maintained a degree of autonomy and engaged in trade with China and Japan.
Mongol Invasions: In the 13th century, Jeju was used by the Mongol Empire as a base during their invasions of Japan. After the invasions, the island was directly controlled by the Mongols until it was returned to Korean control in the late 14th century.

Joseon Dynasty:

During the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), Jeju was used as a place of exile for political prisoners, due to its remote location.
Jeju's unique culture and language were influenced by its isolation from the mainland, developing distinct traditions such as the Jeju dialect and the matriarchal society, where women played significant roles, especially in activities like diving for seafood.

Japanese Occupation:

From 1910 to 1945, Korea (including Jeju) was under Japanese colonial rule. The island was subjected to economic exploitation and cultural suppression, similar to other parts of Korea.

Jeju Uprising:

One of the most significant events in Jeju's modern history is the Jeju Uprising (April 3, 1948 - May 1949). It was a protest against the division of Korea and the separate elections planned for South Korea, which was violently suppressed by the South Korean government. This resulted in the deaths of thousands of civilians and significant destruction.

Post-Korean War:

After the Korean War, Jeju developed into a tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and unique cultural heritage.
In 2007, Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Historical Figures:

King Tamna: The legendary founder of the Tamna Kingdom is a significant figure in Jeju's early history.
Kim Man-deok (1739–1812): A successful female merchant from Jeju who is remembered for her philanthropy, notably during a famine in 1795 when she donated her entire fortune to buy rice for the starving people of Jeju.

Important Landmarks:

Hallasan Mountain: The highest mountain in South Korea, located in the center of Jeju Island, is a dormant volcano and a significant natural landmark.
Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): A tuff cone and popular tourist spot known for its spectacular sunrise views.
Manjanggul Cave: Part of the island's lava tube system and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Cheonjiyeon Waterfall and Jeongbang Waterfall: Famous waterfalls that attract numerous visitors.
Jeju Stone Park: A cultural park that exhibits the island's unique stone culture and history.

Jeju's history is a tapestry of indigenous culture, external influences, and significant historical events that have shaped its identity today.