Seopjikoji

Breathtaking views, beautiful countryside and easy accessibility have helped to make Seopjikoji one of Jeju Island’s most popular year-round visitor attractions. The exotic location is familiar to Korean film fans, while a local legend adds a dash of romantic mystery.

Seopjikoji means “narrow cape”, and the description is particularly apt. This easterly tip of the island is characterised by steeply plunging cliffs and dramatic volcanic rock formations, pounded at sea level by foaming waves and fringed with fertile pastures. Its beauty can be easily enjoyed by visitors of all ages and abilities, thanks to a well-paved stone path that winds gently along the clifftop. Simply follow the signs from the car park to reach the start of the path.

As you walk, admire the views of photogenic Sinyang Seopjikoji beach to your right, while on your left you might be lucky enough to spot wild horses grazing in the verdant meadows. In the distance is the iconic outline of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, one of the best spots on the island to watch the sunrise.

Further along the path you will come across the lighthouse. Climb the staircase to the top for another level of panoramic beauty, with expansive views of the coastline stretching out on all sides. Then, if the tide is out, complete your visit with a walk along the beach to admire nature’s art gallery of dramatically sculpted rock formations. At the far end of the beach is a rock the locals call Seondolbawi. Legend has it that this rock is actually a prince who was turned to stone when his fairy bride jilted him at the altar.

Seopjikoji is around 90 minutes by road from Jeju City and is free to enter. It is open all year round.