Dongbaek Island (Dongbaekseom)

The Basics

The island park is crisscrossed by a series of boardwalks and trails, some winding along the rocky shore and others climbing through the verdant interior, perfect for a fresh-air escape from the nearby city. Follow the boardwalk along the shore, and eventually you’ll come upon one of the island’s most famous landmarks, a statue of a mermaid sitting on a rock amid the crashing waves. A statue of Choe Chi-Won, a Silla Kingdom scholar and writer, stands atop Dongbaek’s highest point.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Dongbaek Island is a must-visit for nature lovers and families.

• There is no admission fee to enter the island.

• Public restrooms are available on the Dongbaek Island grounds.

• The island’s paths are well maintained, but be prepared to climb steps to reach some areas.

How to Get There

To get to Dongbaek Island, take the subway to Dongbaek Station and leave through exit 1. It’s also within walking distance of Haeundae Beach.

When to Get There

The island is open daily throughout the year and is especially beautiful in the evening when the city lights begin to come on. The best season to visit the island is during late winter and early spring, when the camellia trees begin to bloom.

The Legend of Princess Hwang-ok

The famous mermaid statue overlooking Haeundae Beach is based on an old South Korean legend about a princess who came across the sea to wed King Eun-hye. Princess Hwang-ok soon suffered from homesickness and would gaze toward her homeland in the light of each full moon.