Famous for its rock formation, luscious tangerines, year-round average of 16 degree Celsius and frequent rainfall, Jeju Island, also known as Jeju-do, is regarded as the "Hawaii of the East." As a result of its isolated location and romantic tropical image, this island has been the desired spot among local honeymooners and an ideal location for Korean romance movie shooting. However, the inhabitants of Jeju have gone out of their way to welcome not just young couples and celebrities but tourists as well.
Jeju Island was once the only unoccupied region in South Korea during the invasion of the Mongols for approximately 80 years due to internal struggle within the royal court. Today it has its own seat of government and develops a culture distinct from that of the mainland. Jeju Island can proudly boast of its heritage sites, museum, national and theme parks, Buddhist temples and white sandy beaches.
The Jeju Loveland is one of the most visited hotspots in Jeju. Along with other sculptures made by artists from the Hongik University in Seoul, a display of an erotic outdoor sculpture draws the attention of tourists because of its taboo theme. The liberal attitude of the park clashes with old Korean traditions. Another attraction of the park is the Mysterious Road where cars seemingly roll uphill with the engine turned-off.
Jeju offers visitors a wide range of activities, from hiking the towering Mount Hallasan with its fascinating cliffs to viewing the cascading Cheonjeyeon waterfalls. You may also be struck by the very capable women of Jeju. They're the Haenyo or the diving women of Jeju Island. Toughened by the wind and the waves, they show their strength and grace under water.
