Udo Island lying low across a calm sea, a white ferry passing in front

Udo Island

우도

Why go

Udo Island is Jeju's largest outlying island, called "Soseom" (Cow Island) because it looks like a cow lying down. It is 10–15 minutes by boat from Seongsan Port or Jongdal Port.

Admission

₩1,000Udo Marine Provincial Park entry — adults ₩1,000 · youth and soldiers ₩800 · children ₩500 (ferry fare not included)

Highlights

History

Because it looks like a cow lying down, Udo has long been called Soseom or Swaeseom. Soemeori Oreum, the cow's head, is a tuff ring made by a volcano that erupted underwater, and the people of Udo call it "Seommeori". Inside the crater are a reservoir and a small peak called "Mangdongsan", and the north slope, broken down by lava that flowed out, forms gentle ground that runs down to the village.

The white beach was long wrongly thought to be coral sand, but it was found to be made of rhodoliths, formed by red algae that build up calcium carbonate. Beaches where rhodoliths are the main sediment are very rare even worldwide, so it became a natural monument in 2004.

As you go around the island, you come to Hagosu-dong Beach, known for its wide sands and the color of its sea. Look around the gently sloping Cheonjin-dong side and the Geommeolle side with its outstanding coastal scenery, then climb Udobong Peak. You can also enjoy sea fishing or cycling; for the submarine and sightseeing cruise, check with the operator and the weather before you board.

Getting there

제주특별자치도 제주시 우도면 우도로 153

Lot no. · 제주특별자치도 제주시 우도면 연평리 1451-3

Where next

Photos

Udo Island lying low across a calm sea, a white ferry passing in front

Tips

  • Boats sometimes stop depending on the weather and sea conditions. Before you go, check whether they are running that day and the time of the last boat back.
  • There is an admission fee for Udo Marine Provincial Park (adults ₩1,000), and the boat fare is separate.
  • The island is about 17km around; walking without a break takes 3–4 hours. Many people go around by bicycle or on permitted electric vehicles.
  • If you see one or two of the main sights and take a break at a café or restaurant, it takes roughly 3–4 hours.
  • Until July 31, 2029, outside vehicles are restricted from driving on the island. Exceptions apply, under conditions, for people with limited mobility, guests staying on Udo and others.
Show details
Address
제주특별자치도 제주시 우도면 우도로 153
Admission
₩1,000

Sources