By Honorary Reporter Thariq Hafidz Nabil Al Farouqi from Indonesia
Photos = Lee Jeong-hyeong 

Dokdo Island is a protected nature reserve that is home to several endangered and rare bird species. 

Civilian access here was prohibited under Article 33 of the Act on Cultural Heritage Protection until March 24, 2005, when revisions granted such access to Dongdo and Seodo islands under certain conditions. More amendments to the law such as the lifting of the daily visitor limit has allowed more visitors to appreciate the beauty of Dokdo.

The following is an interview with a police officer on the island, Lee Jeong-hyeong (picture). 

How big of a tourist attraction is Dokdo? 

Dokdo is a small island located at the eastern end of Korean territory, so the range of available activities isn't so wide. Nearby Ulleungdo Island is big.

So what can tourists do on the island? 

Each visitor can freely tour the island for about 35 minutes. Several photo spots by the pier are especially popular among tourists like a stone monument inscribed the phrase "Korea's easternmost land" and the street sign for Dokdoisabu-gil. 

What do you think of Japan's territorial claim to Dokdo? 

A simple look at historical data clearly shows that Dokdo is Korean territory. It is regrettable that the Japanese government is distorting this historical fact. I will continue to resist Japan's claim to our land as a Korean.

When is the best time to visit as a tourist? 

The best time is between June and September so long as there's no typhoon. Dokdo is heavily influenced by the weather and sea, however, so please check weather information before visiting.

kalhong617@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.