Ultimate Guide to Ulleungdo (2026 Latest Edition)
What Kind of Place is Ulleungdo?
Ulleungdo is a volcanic island located in the eastern sea of Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, and is the closest island in South Korea to Dokdo. The entire Ulleung County is composed of just this one island — and while it may be small in area, the entire island is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. Sheer cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and mysterious primeval forests come together to make it feel like something out of a fairytale. Since there are very few private cars on the island, traveling on foot or by public transportation is one of its greatest charms.
The island's tourism resources are centered around its stunning natural landscape — the deep blue sea, uniquely shaped rocks and geological formations, and untouched mountains and forests. Thanks to its proximity to Dokdo and its beautiful oceanic atmosphere, it attracts a significant number of visitors from across Korea. However, there are a few downsides worth noting: prices on the island tend to be higher than on the mainland, and since Ulleung Airport has yet to open, the only way to get there is by ferry — meaning that bad weather can lead to cancelled services and unavoidable schedule changes.
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🚢 How to Get to Ulleungdo — Complete Ferry Guide
Because Ulleungdo is located approximately 130km from the mainland, there are no flights available and ferry is the only means of transportation. There are four ports that operate routes to Ulleungdo: Gangneung, Mukho, Hupo, and Pohang.
① Mukho Port (Donghae City) — The Fastest Route
The journey from Mukho Port to Ulleungdo takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes one way — the shortest travel time in the country. The most convenient way to get there by public transportation is to take the KTX-eum train and transfer to the Nuriro train at Gangneung Station. The ferry departing from Mukho Port is the Seastars 1, which arrives at Sadong Port on Ulleungdo. Travelers from Seoul and the greater metropolitan area most commonly use this route.
② Gangneung Port — The Accessible Route
The ferry departing from Gangneung is the Seastars 5, operated by SeaspoVille. While vehicle loading is not available, the Gangneung ferry terminal offers free parking. Ferries from Gangneung arrive at Jeodong Port, which is closer to the main town area, so it is recommended to book your accommodation near Jeodong Port.
③ Pohang Port — The Car-Friendly Route
There are two ferry options from Pohang: the Eldorado Express operated by Daejeo Ferry, and the New Seadao Pearl operated by Ulleung Cruise. While the Pohang route takes longer than the express ferries, it has the major advantages of allowing vehicle loading and rarely being cancelled due to weather. Travelers coming from the Gyeongsang region often choose Pohang or Hupo ports.
💺 Seat Selection Tips
On board, the lower deck offers standard seats while the upper deck offers premium reclining seats. For a more comfortable journey — especially given that Ulleungdo sees many days of rough waves — it is worth paying the extra fare for an upper deck seat. If you are prone to seasickness, choosing a seat in the middle of the vessel is also strongly recommended.
📋 What You Need to Know When Booking
During peak summer months of July and August, as well as on weekends, seats sell out extremely fast. Attempting to purchase tickets at the terminal on the day of travel may result in no availability or significantly higher prices. For a smooth and enjoyable trip, it is strongly recommended to book at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance, and 2 to 3 months ahead during peak season.
Since the journey is made by sea, departure cancellations or delays due to bad weather are always a possibility. It is important to check the weather forecast before booking your ferry, and to remain flexible with your itinerary in case of cancellations. In the event of a cancellation, priority for the next available departure is given in the order passengers originally arrived on the island.
🔗 Useful Links
🏝️ Ulleung County Official Tourism Website — https://www.ulleung.go.kr/tour/
🚢 Ulleung Cruise Official Website (Pohang Route) — https://www.ulcruise.co.kr/
🚢 Ulleungdo Ferry Booking — Daejeo Ferry (Pohang Route) — https://www.ulleungferry.com/
🗺️ Ulleung Smart Tourism Map (Dadora) — https://ulleung.dadora.kr/
🇰🇷 Korea Tourism Official Website — https://korean.visitkorea.or.kr
💰 Ferry Fare Guide (2026)
Prices vary depending on the departure port, vessel type, seat class, and whether it is peak or off-peak season. However, one-way fares generally range between 60,000 and 80,000 KRW. For a round trip, you can expect to pay approximately 120,000 to 170,000 KRW.
If you are bringing your vehicle, additional fees apply. Costs vary by vehicle type — compact and economy cars are typically in the 60,000–70,000 KRW range, mid-size cars, SUVs, and sedans around 90,000 KRW, and large or foreign vehicles 100,000 KRW and above. These fees are for the round trip and can be added during the booking process.
A variety of discounts are available for middle and high school students, military personnel, those of national merit, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and children. Be sure to check whether any applicable discounts apply to you before completing your booking.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit
Ulleungdo is a premier island destination in South Korea where visitors can experience both unique volcanic terrain and stunning ocean scenery all at once. While the island offers a different kind of beauty in every season, winter tends to see a significant drop in visitors due to strong winds and rough seas.
The best time to visit is between June and September, when the weather is clear and the sea is relatively calm. However, accommodation and ferry tickets sell out quickly during the peak summer season, so advance booking is absolutely essential.
During winter, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province and Ulleung County offer a special ferry fare subsidy program during January and February, covering half of the ferry ticket cost for tourists. Visiting during the off-season offers a quieter, more authentic experience of what Ulleungdo is truly like.
🗺️ Key Attractions in Detail
① Haengnam Coastal Trail
This trail runs along the coastline beneath towering cliffs, stretching from Jeodong Port Observation Deck all the way to Haengnam Lighthouse. Walking along the sound of the waves, this is one of Ulleungdo's most beloved and recommended trekking routes — one that is sure to soothe the soul.
② Dokdo Sunrise Observatory (Cable Car)
On a clear day, the Dokdo Sunrise Observatory offers views of Korea's beloved Dokdo Island on the horizon. The cable car station is just a 16-minute walk from Jeodong Port. From the top, you can take in a sweeping panorama of Ulleungdo, with forests and ocean stretching out in every direction — easily one of the island's top three must-visit spots. Cable car fares are 7,500 KRW for adults and 5,500 KRW for teens.
③ Taeha Hyangmok Monorail & Daepunggam
The Taeha Hyangmok Tourist Monorail is a must-visit on any trip to Ulleungdo. The monorail climbs a dramatic 39-degree incline to reach the Daepunggam Observatory, where visitors are treated to a truly spectacular view of the island. With walking trails, a skywalk, and the naturally protected Daepunggam area — a designated natural monument — there is no shortage of things to enjoy here.
④ Nari Basin
Given Ulleungdo's volcanic origins, most of the island is rugged and uneven terrain. The Nari Basin is the island's only flat plain, formed when the central caldera collapsed. Here you can find colonies of Ulleung chrysanthemums and island thyme, local restaurants serving traditional mountain cuisine, campsites, and an arboretum. There is also an observation deck overlooking the basin that is well worth the climb.
⑤ Gwaneumdo Island
Gwaneumdo is the second largest of the islets belonging to Ulleungdo. With the construction of a connecting bridge between Ulleungdo and Gwaneumdo, visitors can now reach this hidden gem on foot rather than by boat. Admission is 4,000 KRW for adults, 3,000 KRW for teens, and 2,000 KRW for children. Open daily from 09:00 to 18:00.
⑥ Cheonbu Underwater Observatory
Located in the northern part of Ulleungdo, the Cheonbu Underwater Observatory is a unique attraction that allows visitors to look directly into the sea below. Gazing into the clear, transparent waters of Ulleungdo from beneath the surface is a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Open daily from 09:00 to 18:00, with admission of 4,000 KRW for adults.
⑦ Usanguk Museum & Southwest Sunset Observatory
The Usanguk Museum showcases records and artifacts from the ancient state of Usanguk, which existed during the Three Kingdoms period. Visitors can explore cultural heritage including pottery and burial sites to gain a deeper understanding of Ulleungdo's history. A screening room presents the legend of General Isabu's conquest of Usanguk in video form. Next to the museum, the Southwest Monorail takes visitors up to the Southwest Sunset Observatory at 150 meters above sea level, where stunning views of crimson sunsets, coastal cliffs, and the iconic Namgeun Rock rising from the sea can be enjoyed.
🍽️ Must-Try Food in Ulleungdo
What makes Ulleungdo's cuisine truly special is its use of ingredients found only on the island. Fresh seafood and unique mountain vegetables come together to create flavors that simply cannot be replicated on the mainland.
Squid Dishes — The Symbol of Ulleungdo
Ulleungdo is the home of squid. Jeodong Port sees many squid fishing boats come in, and the area is packed with restaurants serving all kinds of squid dishes. From squid sashimi and squid cold soup to internal organ stew and spicy stir-fry, the taste of fresh-caught squid early in the morning is something you will never forget.
Dokdo Shrimp — A Rare Delicacy
The most famous Dokdo shrimp restaurant, Cheongeumhoe Aquatic Products, is also located at Jeodong Port. Raised in the powerful currents around Dokdo, these shrimp have a springy texture and intensely sweet flavor. With limited catches available, they are considered a prized ingredient even by locals on the island.
Mountain Vegetable Bibimbap & Myeongi
Myeongi (wild garlic) has become widely known on the mainland in recent years, often served alongside grilled meats. Alongside Myeongi, bugijjaengi (mountain aster) is also a well-known local specialty and is registered under the Geographical Indication System (No. 8). Some restaurants sell gimbap made with these unique local greens — a distinctly Ulleungdo culinary experience.
Barnacle Dishes, Mussel Rice & Yakso Beef
Barnacles that grow on the island's rugged, wave-battered coastline are larger, chewier, and richer in flavor than those found on the mainland. They are delicious in rice, porridge, or noodle soup. Other local specialties worth trying include herbal hangover soup and Yakso beef — a rare local breed.
Ulleung Brewery Craft Beer
Ulleung Brewery produces craft beers that are almost exclusively available on the island. Their bottled beers can be found at various restaurants around Ulleungdo, making it a wonderful hidden gem for winding down after a day of exploration.
⚠️ Important Note for Solo Travelers!
Many restaurants on Ulleungdo do not accept single diners, and some menus require a minimum of 4 people. While there are some places that accommodate solo diners, these tend not to offer the most representative Ulleungdo dining experience. Travelers in groups of 2 to 3 people are strongly advised to call ahead and confirm availability before visiting.
🏨 Accommodation Recommendations
Where you stay on Ulleungdo can make a significant difference to how convenient and enjoyable your trip is.
Deoham House — Romantic Ocean-View Pension
Deoham House is situated along the northern coastal road of Ulleungdo and offers a relaxed, comfortable setting for taking in the island's stunning ocean views. The property features numerous photo spots with the sea as a backdrop. Through the large windows beside the bed, guests can enjoy views of the ocean and the towering Candle Rock. On mornings when sea fog rolls in, the scenery becomes even more magical.
Cosmos Resort — Premium Luxury
Nestled beneath Songgotssan Mountain, Cosmos Resort boasts world-class facilities and scenery that rival any major resort destination, and is also recognized for its distinctive architectural design. It is widely regarded as the finest accommodation on the island. Rates start from 470,000 KRW per night.
Café Ulla (Inside Cosmos Resort)
Even if you are not staying at the resort, Café Ulla inside Cosmos Resort is a beloved hotspot that most visitors to Ulleungdo make a point of visiting. Offering coffee, beverages, and light lunch options, the outdoor garden provides the perfect backdrop for photos with Songgotssan Peak in the distance.
🚗 Getting Around Ulleungdo
Visitors can get around Ulleungdo by rental car, taxi, bus, or scooter. Rental cars are the most convenient option for families or those traveling with luggage. Daily shuttle buses also operate on the island, making it perfectly manageable for travelers without a vehicle. It is also worth noting that Ulleungdo's coastal ring road, after 55 years of construction, has been fully completed — dubbed "Korea's Great Ocean Road," it now allows visitors to traverse the entire island, including the Nari Basin, along one of the most scenic drives in the country.
✅ Pre-Trip Checklist
When planning your trip to Ulleungdo, it is highly recommended to add at least one or two extra days to your schedule. Unlike Jeju Island, where disruptions are more manageable, a cancellation on Ulleungdo can quite literally strand you on the island until the next available sailing.
In addition to the usual travel essentials, seasickness medication, sunscreen, a waterproof jacket, and a hat are absolute must-haves. Rain is frequent on the island, so an umbrella or rain poncho is also strongly advised.
Due to the island's geography, certain trails and attractions may be closed in the event of strong winds or high seas. It is recommended to check for any restricted areas in advance via the Ulleung County Office website.
If you wish to visit Dokdo as part of your trip, a separate ferry booking is required. The round trip from Ulleungdo to Dokdo takes approximately 4 hours on average, and visits are conducted either as a landing tour or a scenic circumnavigation tour depending on weather conditions.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (QnA)
Q1. What happens if the ferry is cancelled? Does it ruin my whole trip?
This is by far the most common concern among first-time visitors to Ulleungdo. It is strongly recommended to add one or two buffer days to either end of your schedule. Unlike Jeju Island, where disruptions are easier to recover from, being stranded on Ulleungdo due to a cancellation means you truly cannot leave until conditions improve.
In the event of a cancellation, departure priority is given in the order passengers originally arrived on the island — so those who came first get to leave first. For those most worried about cancellations, the Ulleung Cruise service from Pohang is a far more weather-resistant option, and claims to operate 365 days a year regardless of conditions.
✅ Bottom Line: Always build in a buffer day before and after your trip. If cancellations are your biggest concern, seriously consider booking the Pohang route.
Q2. I forgot my ID — can I still board the ferry?
Without a valid ID, you will not be permitted to board the ferry. If you also plan to rent a car on the island, your driver's license is equally essential. However, if you have forgotten your ID, there are unmanned civil service kiosks inside the ferry terminal where you can print a copy of your resident registration certificate as a substitute.
✅ Bottom Line: Never leave without your ID. If you do forget it, stay calm — the terminal kiosks have you covered with a resident registration certificate printout.
Q3. Are there any useful apps or items to bring for the trip?
Before you depart, it is highly recommended to install the 'Ulleung Alimi' app on your smartphone. It provides real-time information on Ulleungdo's weather, attraction closures, transportation schedules, Dokdo landing status, and EV charging stations — all in one place. You can also set custom alerts for the information most relevant to your trip.
In terms of supplies, be sure to pack seasickness medication, sunscreen, fever reducers, cold medicine, digestive aids, pain relievers, insect repellent, and bandages. Since the island has a warm and humid maritime climate with rain and snow throughout much of the year, a compact folding umbrella is also a must.
✅ Bottom Line: Install the Ulleung Alimi app before you go — it's indispensable on the ground. And pack seasickness tablets and an umbrella above all else.
🔗 Useful Links
🏝️ Ulleung County Official Tourism Website — https://www.ulleung.go.kr/tour/
🚢 Ulleung Cruise Official Website (Pohang Route) — https://www.ulcruise.co.kr/
🚢 Ulleungdo Ferry Booking — Daejeo Ferry (Pohang Route) — https://www.ulleungferry.com/
🗺️ Ulleung Smart Tourism Map (Dadora) — https://ulleung.dadora.kr/
🇰🇷 Korea Tourism Official Website — https://korean.visitkorea.or.kr
🌟 Final Recommendation: For a trip that includes Dokdo, plan for a minimum of 2 nights and 3 days — ideally 3 nights and 4 days if your schedule allows. Building in a buffer day before and after your trip is the single smartest thing you can do when planning a visit to Ulleungdo.
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