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 ferry journey to the island requires lots of planning, many hundreds of visitors go to the island each day to see Korea’s southernmost point for themselves.

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

[Slug CG] 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.

[Slug CG] 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.

[Slug CG] Marado is home to 100 residents

But apart from that, it is home to about 130 people. There is a lighthouse, a school and a cathedral with a round exterior.

Marado is oddly well-known for its black bean sauce noodles, Jjajangmyeon(짜장면). The island has a street full of restaurants specializing in Jjajangmyeon with seafood toppings unique to this island.

[Slug CG] 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