By Honorary Reporter Ma. Lilia P. Grindle from Philippines 

Photos= Ma. Lilia P. Grindle

Rough waves, towering volcanic cliffs, crystal clear ocean and seagulls. These things come to mind when I think of Ulleungdo and Dokdo islands. I've been to these islands twice but would gladly return to see the marvelous nature there.

Situated in the middle of the East Sea, Ulleungdo and Dokdo are Korea's easternmost islands and part of Ulleung-gun County, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. Due to their strategic locations, the islands are only accessible by ferry, which usually takes three to four hours to get to Ulleungdo from the mainland. Bad weather and unforgiving waves occasionally cause canceled ferry voyages.

Yet both islands are worth the time and effort to visit. My first trip to Ulleungdo came in summer 2012. It proved to be one of the most beautiful places I've visited in Korea. Nari Basin, a large volcanic depression caused by a volcanic explosion, is the island's largest flat area with fertile volcanic ash soil. While most residents fish for a living, those in the basin earn a high income by producing medicinal plants. Visitors can also see unique homes including a tumakjip (thatched-roof house) and a neowajip (shingled house). 

Taeha Red Clay Cave is another must-visit spot on the island. Getting close to the ochre rock was prohibited when I visited, but I could still admire the view from far away. Its picturesque scenery is clear even from long distance.

Ulleungdo is also famous for funny-looking rocks such as Chotdaeam (Candle) Rock, Samseonam (Three Angels) Rocks, Kogiribawi (Elephant) Rock and Geobukbawi (Turtle) Rock.

My second visit to these islands in 2016 was a trip exclusively arranged for Korea.net Honorary Reporters. My first visit to Dokdo was unforgettable, as was my second trip to Ulleungdo. The water surrounding Dokdo was surprisingly shallow, and seeing pebbles beneath the turquoise seawater felt so surreal. It inspired me to write a poem in Korean about Dokdo after the trip. 

Bongnae Waterfall is another popular attraction. This three-tiered waterfall 25 m tall is the main source of drinking water on the island. To visitors, its natural beauty is breathtaking.

Though we missed seeing the sunrise at Naesujeon Sunrise Observatory, the scenery there was beautiful enough to make me feel humble and grateful. The spot had a stunning view of the vast ocean as well as the neighboring islands of Gwaneumdo and Jukdo.

Though I visited Ulleungdo and Dokdo years ago, the scenery there remains vivid in my memory. I highly recommend visiting both islands to lovers of unspoiled nature and clear ocean views.

chaey0726@korea.kr


*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.