Jeju Island Prepares for Summer Tourist Influx with Diverse Attractions

Jeju Island is preparing for a bustling summer, expecting over 2.5 million tourists to flock to the island for short, cherished vacations. Last year, the popular destination welcomed 2.64 million visitors, and this summer is projected to see a similar influx, with 166,000 people expected during the three-day holiday weekend alone.

Tourists are drawn to Jeju's diverse natural beauty, from the majestic Hallasan mountain and volcanic cones to its coastlines and waterfalls. Data from Jeju Tourism Organization's 'VisitJeju' platform shows Seongsan Ilchulbong as the most searched travel keyword last August, followed by Saryeoni Forest Path and Yongmeori Coast. The island offers a variety of experiences, including 'color hunting' tours to capture the changing hues of the sea and landscapes, and scenic drives along coastal roads like Aewol and forest paths such as Bijarim-ro.

To escape the summer heat, visitors can explore indoor exhibitions like 'One Piece: The Great Pirate Era Exhibition' or experience the 'Jalor Museum' and media art installations at 'Innerise'. As night falls, destinations like Cheonjiyeon Falls, Saeyeon Bridge, and Dongmun Night Market offer continued enjoyment. Several beaches, including Woljeong and Samyang, remain open for evening relaxation.

Culinary experiences are central to the Jeju trip, with local specialties like *gogi-guksu* (pork noodle soup), *gosari-yukgaejang* (fern bracken soup), and black pork with *meljeot* (fermented anchovy sauce) being highlights. For food enthusiasts, the 'Ottogi Sehwa-ro' project in Sehwa-ri offers a chance to savor diverse dishes made with local ingredients, a collaboration between 13 local brands and Ottogi.