Memories of the Wind and a Stroll through the Serene Meadows on Marado (Marado), the Southernmost Point of South Korea

Reaching the Edge of South Korea, an Island Resembling a Sweet Potato

After a ferry ride of about 30 minutes from Unjinhang (Unjin Port), the salty sea breeze brushing against my nose signaled that I had arrived. The flat and blue landscape of Marado (Marado) unfolded before my eyes. They say that if you look down from the sky, it resembles a small sweet potato floating on the sea, and standing on it in person, the charming yet vast feeling touched my heart. Since the entire island consists of gentle meadows without a single steep hill, it felt like a magical space where even the passage of time slows down.

Coastal Cliffs Carved by the Wind and the Record of the Southernmost Point

As I began walking counter-clockwise around the island, the first place I encountered was the Bonhyangdang (Bonhyangdang) of Marado (Marado). It is a humble altar surrounded by low stone walls, but I could feel the deep history of people wishing for the safety of the Haenyeo (female divers) of Marado (Marado) for many years. I walked quietly as if something sacred was lingering beyond the sound of grass swaying in the wind. As I headed east, the scenery changed bit by bit. The strange rocks and cliffs carved by the sea breeze revealed their magnificent appearance, and the Marado Lighthouse (Marado Deungdae), standing tall above them, silently guards the ships sailing by. There were cute models of lighthouses from around the world placed near this lighthouse, which is recorded in global sea charts, making the walk through the Lighthouse Park quite enjoyable.

A Peaceful Afternoon Stroll with Silver Grass

The real charm of Marado (Marado) is the walking trail around the island, which can be fully explored in 1 to 2 hours. They say the entire island is dyed in golden silver grass in the autumn, but I found it quite lovely now as the greenery is deeper, which is refreshing for the eyes. Reaching the southern end of the island, the laughter of people taking photos in front of the 'Southernmost Point of Korea Monument' (Daehanminguk choenamdanbi) comes riding on the wind. Some confirm the end of the Korean Peninsula here, while others gaze at the distant horizon and lose themselves in their own thoughts. Walking along the west coast, you will encounter well-developed sea caves, and the sound of waves hitting the caves was so vivid that it felt as if my inner heart was being washed clean.

Tips for Travelers Walking on Marado (Marado)

Marado (Marado) is a place that changes its expression depending on the weather. If you enter early in the morning, you can fully enjoy the island's unique tranquility, and in the afternoon, you can feel the lively yet languid atmosphere before the last ferry leaves. Passenger ships from Unjinhang (Unjin Port) run several times a day, so it is better to check the schedule in advance. Even without any flashy facilities, the time spent on this island, with only low grass, wind, and the sea, leaves a deeper lingering impression than any other destination. Put on comfortable shoes and walk around the island while feeling the wind with your whole body. That alone will make you fall in love with Marado (Marado).