This week on Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker takes a brief look at Marado Island, a small, rugged island 11 kilometers off the Jeju coast. Although the leg by ferry takes time and planning, many hundreds of visitors make the journey each day to see Korea’s southernmost point for themselves.



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Diminutive and oval-shaped, Marado Island is a 30-minute ferry ride from Moseulpo Harbor in Daejeong-eup, Seogwipo.

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4.2 km of rugged coastline, inhabited since the late 1800s

Its 4.2-kilometer-long coast is rugged, and wind and wave swept. Formed by a volcanic eruption, it lacks a crater and is remarkably flat. It has been inhabited since the late 1800s.

According to a report published by the Korea Forest Research Institute, though Marado’s original vegetation was cut down for farming, there is still a small group of black pine trees at the island’s center.

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Designated Natural Monument 423, it is also a nature reserve

Since July, 2000, it has been designated Natural Monument No. 423. And to protect its special mix of marine animals and plants, it is now a nature reserve.

A stroll around the island takes about one hour. Along the way, enjoy the view of Marado’s neighbor, Gapado Island, and of course the beautiful vista of Jeju and the surrounding ocean.

Marado’s main claim to fame is that it is Korea’s southernmost point, and a large stone on its south coast marks the spot. Many visitors make the journey just to see it with their own eyes.

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Marado has a lighthouse, school and restaurants catering to visitors

But apart from that, it is home to about 100 people. There is a lighthouse, a school, and a number of restaurants selling dishes like seafood noodles in black bean sauce.

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Todd Thacker

There are numerous daily ferry sailings, but be aware that if the weather is bad, crossings may be delayed or cancelled. Reserving tickets a few days ahead of time, and double checking the weather, is highly recommended.

Todd Thacker KCTV