Hallyeohae National Park Odong Island District

Odongdo is a picturesque island that is part of the famous Hallyeohaesan National Marine Park. Located in the coastal area of Yeosu, this natural site is considered one of the must-visit attractions in South Korea.

Odongdo Island (Hallyeohaesang National Park). Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The island is famous for its amazing flora: about 200 species of evergreen trees grow here, with camellias holding a special place. More than 3,000 of these trees begin to bloom in October and delight the eye with bright colors until spring, turning Odongdo into an open-air winter garden. The island's territory is crisscrossed with convenient walking paths and bamboo groves.

Thanks to its accessibility — the island is connected to the mainland by a 760-meter breakwater — Odongdo has become a favorite spot for eco-tourism. It's not just a park, but a true natural treasure where the sea breeze mixes with the scent of pine needles and flowers, creating a unique atmosphere for relaxation.

To plan your visit to Hallyeohaesan National Park and Odongdo Island, you can use the following contact information. The site administration provides support for tourists regarding navigation and access to the main recreation areas.

The main activity on Odongdo Island is walking along specially designed wooden boardwalks. The trails lead through shady forests to breathtaking viewpoints on the rocky shores. During the camellia blooming season (especially in February and March), the island becomes the perfect backdrop for photo shoots and romantic dates.

In addition to contemplating nature, guests should check out the theme park, home to the famous musical fountains that perform water shows to rhythmic melodies. Be sure to climb the Odongdo Lighthouse: its observation deck offers a panoramic view of the endless sea and the city's port area.

For those seeking more active experiences, motorboat trips around the island are available, allowing you to see its sheer cliffs from the water. After a busy day, you can stop by a local restaurant to try hoe — a traditional Korean dish of fresh raw fish, prepared here from the freshest catch.

The picturesque island of Odongdo is located in the eastern part of Yeosu. You can reach the park entrance by public transport (city buses) or by taxi from any central point. The arrival point is usually the entrance to the breakwater that connects the island to the mainland.

The path along the breakwater itself, about 760 meters long, takes approximately 15 minutes on foot — a pleasant walk with a view of the sea harbor. If you prefer to save your strength, the colorful "Dongbaek" train runs regularly from the ticket offices. Sightseeing boats and motorboats are also available for tourists, departing from nearby piers.

Hallyeohaesan National Park, of which Odongdo is a crown jewel, holds a special place in the country's ecological system. Established in 1968, it became the first marine national park in South Korea. Its creation was intended to protect unique coastal landscapes and hundreds of islands scattered along the southern coast.

For centuries, Odongdo Island served as a quiet refuge for local sailors and fishermen. It got its name from the paulownia trees (odong) that used to densely cover its territory. There is a legend that phoenixes once lived here, attracted by the beauty of these trees.

During the Joseon Dynasty, the island was used as a strategic point for naval training under the leadership of the famous Admiral Yi Sun-sin. Today, the site is entirely dedicated to nature conservation and eco-tourism, serving as a symbol of harmony between man and the sea.

To leisurely explore Odongdo and soak in its atmosphere, most visitors need about 2 to 3 hours. This is enough time to walk along the breakwater, stroll through the forest trails, take photos against the backdrop of camellias, and climb the local lighthouse.

If you plan to visit the musical fountains or have lunch at one of the seafood restaurants near the park entrance, we recommend setting aside half a day. A morning walk is especially good for those who want to avoid large crowds and enjoy the silence of the seacoast.

One of the most attractive aspects of visiting Odongdo Island in Yeosu is its accessibility. The park territory is open to tourists 24/7, allowing you to enjoy the seascape both in the rays of the rising sun and under evening illumination.

Official opening hours: Monday — Sunday, 24 hours a day. Please note that additional services, such as the "Dongbaek" tourist train or the lighthouse observation deck, operate on their own schedules (usually from morning until sunset), so it is better to plan your visit during daylight hours to experience them.

Exploring the surroundings of Odongdo Island will allow you to get a full impression of the region's tourism potential. In the immediate vicinity of the national park are modern entertainment complexes and cultural sites that harmoniously complement the natural beauty.

Many sites are located within walking distance or a short taxi ride away, making it easy to plan a full sightseeing day for the whole family.