Seoul to Jeju Island: Travel Guide, Flights, and Sights

Jeju Island offers a complete change of pace from Seoul's urban skyline. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, the island features dramatic geological landmarks, pristine natural forests, and coastal formations that exist nowhere else in South Korea.

It is an ideal destination for outdoor travelers, hikers, and anyone seeking scenic nature. Weather patterns shift throughout the year, with flight demand peaking around spring travel in April, while ticket prices drop to their lowest in November.

Unlike mainland cities easily linked by rail, Jeju requires crossing the Korea Strait. The air route between Seoul and Jeju is the busiest domestic corridor in the world, making regular departures accessible at almost any hour of the day.

Jeju features several UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites and protected reserves with very affordable admission:

• Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak: A dramatic tuff cone rising out of the eastern sea. Standard adult admission is 5,000 KRW (~$3.57).
• Manjanggul Cave: A massive, ancient lava tube showcasing volcanic geology. Entry is 4,000 KRW (~$2.86).
• Bijarim Forest: Natural Monument No. 374, containing approximately 2,800 ancient nutmeg trees aged 500 to 800 years. Entrance costs 3,000 KRW (~$2.14).
• Hallasan National Park: Home to Korea's highest mountain peak. Hiking the summit trails (Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa) requires a mandatory advance reservation via the park's booking system. Daily parking for small cars is capped at 13,000 KRW ($9.29), and campsite fees range from 7,000 KRW ($5.00) to 9,000 KRW (~$6.43) per night.

Flying is the standard method for getting from Seoul to Jeju Island:

• Departure airport: Flights leave from Gimpo International Airport (GMP) on the west side of Seoul. Reach Gimpo easily using the AREX airport railroad, Seoul subway lines 5 and 9, city buses, or taxis.
• Arrival airport: Jeju International Airport (CJU).
• Flight duration: Flight time averages 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 16 minutes.
• Fares: One-way tickets start around $28 (39,200 KRW), typically ranging between $37 and $83. Round-trip flights start near $50 (~70,000 KRW).
• Carriers: Routes are operated by Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Jeju Air, Jin Air, Air Busan, Air Seoul, Eastar Jet, and Trinity Airways.

Foreign travelers can book tickets online via airline websites or international flight aggregators using standard foreign credit cards.

Upon landing at Jeju International Airport, you can choose between public buses or renting a car:

• Public buses: Direct bus services depart right outside Jeju Airport and link major towns and coastal areas across the island.
• Car rental: Driving provides flexibility to reach remote parks and coastlines. Major companies like Lotte Rent-a-Car, SK Rent-a-Car, and Jeju Airport Rental Car operate at the airport.

To rent a car, international tourists must meet strict requirements:

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Present an International Driving Permit (IDP; Grade B for passenger cars up to 9 seats).
• Have stayed in South Korea for less than one year.
• Present a passport and pay using a credit card issued in the driver's own name.

Keep in mind that Google Maps turn-by-turn navigation does not function in Korea. Download Naver Map or Kakao Map before your trip.