This week on the 200th edition of Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker takes a look at the annual Seogwipo Penguin Swim, which is set for Saturday morning at Jungmun Saekdal Beach. As we’ll see now, hundreds will head south to brave the cold sea and air, and spend a wonderful day on one of Jeju’s most beautiful beaches.


[Report]
January has brought with it its fair share of cold weather, cold ocean currents and bone-chilling breezes. But believe it or not, some people actually look forward to this time of year, for a very special reason!

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Jungmun Saekdal Beach, Seogwipo

This year’s Seogwipo Penguin Swim, which is set for January 6th at Jungmun Beach, brings together dozens of hearty ? some might say foolhardy ? swimmers who take a brief plunge into the icy waters off the south coast.

Jeju, like many places around the world, has a New Year’s tradition of winter swims. In the West, it’s called a Polar Bear Plunge. But on Jeju, it’s the penguin which represents the vivacious spirit of the outdoors.

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Traditional activities, piping-hot foods provided

Fortunately, you don’t need to actually take a dip in the ocean to participate. There are many activities and foods to enjoy during the morning event. Friendly traditional Korean wrestling matches and kite flying, for example, are on tap. And try some steaming seaweed soup (momguk) and sliced boiled pork (dombegogi).

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Great opportunity for photographers

And for all those selfie seekers out there, there are some great opportunities to capture all the day’s action at one of Korea’s most famous and beautiful beaches.

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Todd Thacker

So, you might be asking yourself ? why do they do it? When asked, participants often say it’s a good chance to reinvigorate their body and mind for the year ahead. Clearly, taking the plunge might not be for everyone, but it’s certainly one of the more memorable ways to mark the start of 2018 on Jeju.

Todd Thacker KCTV