Asia > South Korea > Hongdo
Hongdo is a small, remote island in the Yellow Sea, about 115 km southwest of Mokpo. Its name means "Red Island", a nod to the reddish rock that shows in the cliffs when the light is right, and most of the island is protected as part of Dadohaehaesang National Park.
This is not a place for lots of freedom to roam. The island is a natural monument, so visitors are limited to the village, designated paths, the beach, and boat trips around the coast. That restriction is exactly why Hongdo still feels dramatic: steep forested slopes, sea stacks, and rock walls drop straight into the water.
The classic visit combines a coast sightseeing boat, the climb to Gitdaebong, and time around Hongdo Beach near the harbour. It takes effort to get here, but the island has a clear identity and enough natural theatre to justify the ferry ride for travellers already exploring South Jeolla's islands.