This week on Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker takes a brief look at one of the many small islands that dot Jeju’s coastline. Today we’ll hear about Chagwido Island, which is located off the west coast near the Geopark site of Suwolbong Peak.



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Not only is this diminutive island well-known for its beautiful sunset views, it also holds a uniquely deep cultural significance ? both ancient and modern.

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Gosan-ri, Hangyeong-myeon

Chagwido Island is an eagle-shaped combination of four islets located about 2 kilometers off the west coast by Jagunae Port.

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Designated Nature Reserve No. 422 in 2000

Its escarpments are covered in long grass, and it boasts 13 species of trees and 62 other flora. Uninhabited, it was designated Nature Reserve No. 422 in the year 2000.

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Subtidal zone rich in marine life

Due to the warm ocean currents, Chagwido is surrounded by marine life. Its subtidal zone holds a rich algal distribution of scientific importance and is a great area for amateur and professional fishermen and women.

Chagwido’s cultural significance also extends to the mythological.

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Mythological site of son mourning Jeju’s creator

Hallasan Mountain has a formation known as the 500 Generals, a jagged outcrop high up at Yeongsil. According one story, Jeju’s mythical creator known as Seolmundae Halmang lived on the mountain with her 500 sons.

One day she fell into her soup pot, and was inadvertently consumed by all but one of her sons. The lone son blamed his siblings and departed to mourn his mother, eventually turning into what we call Chagwido.

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Todd Thacker

Whether you’re a fishing enthusiast, photographer, or even a mythology buff, a trip to see Chagwido Island from land (or on the water) is sure to be a memorable, uniquely Jeju, experience.

Todd Thacker KCTV