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Backpacking in Korea’s Unique Landscapes

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Backpacking refers to hiking with camping gear for an overnight or multi-day trip.


Most backpacking spots have little pollution, offering beautiful nature and even views of the Milky Way at night.


Today, let me introduce some of Korea’s campsites that are especially famous for backpacking!


Since you're connecting closely with nature, be mindful of fire and always take your trash with you!




Let's begin😎



Muuido is a small island located next to Incheon Airport and is considered one of the most well-known domestic backpacking destinations. The open field near Horyonggoksan Mountain is said to resemble the Serengeti plains in Africa, so the island is sometimes called "Murengeti," a combination of Muuido and Serengeti. Behind it, you'll find an exotic rocky mountain view, and in front, the sea stretches out. It's not only beautiful for sunrise and sunset but also offers various activities, such as exploring the rocky mountain photo zones. Being close to the sea, you can also spot people fishing and view various sea creatures. To get to Muuido, you can either take a boat or a bus. Taking a boat is quicker, but a bus can directly take you from Incheon Airport. Once you arrive on the island, there are two ways to get to the campsite. For beginners, hiking the mountain trail is recommended!



Address: Muui-dong, Jung-gu, Incheon




Seonjaryeong is a beautiful spot where you can enjoy views of Gangneung and Donghae from the summit at a relatively high elevation compared to its easy hiking trail. Especially in winter, the snowy landscape is beautiful, making it a popular destination for winter backpacking, but it's a great place to visit year-round. The sight of wind turbines spinning over the green meadows creates an interesting landscape. Even during the hot and humid summer in Korea, the temperature at Seonjaryeong remains cool. Known as a backpacking destination, the colorful tents spread over the green meadows enhance the charm of this place. Seonjaryeong is located at an altitude of 1,157m, but the starting point, the parking lot, is about 940m, so it can be reached with a simple hike of about 1 hour. Known as the "Hill of Wind," it is frequently windy, so it's important to bring proper winter gear and be cautious!



Address: 458-23 Kkotbatyangji-gil Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do




Gulupdo is an island in Incheon that is loved by many not only for backpacking but also for its incredibly beautiful scenery. The island is said to resemble a person bending down and working, which is how it got its name, Gulupdo. To reach the island, you must embark on a roughly 3-hour journey starting from Incheon Ferry Terminal or Daebudo’s Bangameori Port, passing through Deokjeokdo. The most famous backpacking site on the island is the Gaemeori Ridge, where a breathtaking view of the ocean can be enjoyed after about an hour's hike. The island is also well known for the grazing of many deer and black goats, and you may encounter them during your trip. The island has a strong natural atmosphere, and there are not many facilities. However, you can either reserve a traditional meal at a local restaurant run by the island’s residents or use the only small convenience store available!



Address: Gureom-ri, Deokjeok-myeon, Ongjin-gun, Incheon




Biyangdo, located on Udo Island in Jeju, is an island within an island within an island, where vast meadows and the blue waters of Jeju blend beautifully. Be careful not to confuse Biyangdo in Jeju with Biyangdo in Udo in Jeju, as they are easily mistaken for each other! Since you need to take a ferry from Jeju to Udo, and then from Udo to Biyangdo, it's recommended to explore Udo first before heading to Biyangdo. This island is full of stunning features like the Deungdaeseom(lighthouse) island, beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the Jeju sea, and basalt formations. One of the highlights is a small stone tower, which is a popular photo spot. Be sure to climb up and enjoy the peaceful sea and expansive horizon from above! Biyangdo is equipped with basic amenities like a parking lot, public restrooms, and recycling facilities, making it an excellent destination for beginners who are new to backpacking.



Address: Yeonpyeong-ri, Udo-myeon, Jeju-si, Jeju-do




Hahwado in Yeosu is a beautiful backpacking destination known as the "flower island" due to the abundance of flowers such as azaleas, wild roses, canola, and chrysanthemums. In addition to backpacking, the island is also famous for the "Flower Island Trail" that loops around it. It is known as a relatively easy backpacking destination, as facilities such as restrooms and restaurants are located near the campsites. Especially in spring, you can enjoy cherry blossom backpacking while overlooking cherry trees and the sea, so much so that the Wildflower Park at the camping site is said to be fully packed. Since it is a flower island, flowers bloom throughout all seasons, so you can enjoy the beauty of Hahwado at any time of the year. To reach Hahwado, most people take a ferry from Baegya Pier to Hahwado. If you have the opportunity, don't miss visiting the various viewpoints and the Flower Island Bridge, which is a suspension bridge, while exploring the island!



Address: 1-4 Araetkkotseom 1-gil Hwajeong-myeon, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do




Baebawi Rock in Hongcheon is a famous backpacking destination, named after two rocks and a pine tree that rises above them, resembling a ship(referred to as 'Bae' in Korean)'s sail. As the name suggests, it is also well-known for its canoe village, hosting canoe competitions and offering a range of recreational activities. In addition to trekking along the Hongcheon River, it is possible to enjoy backpacking here. The area is particularly famous as a ice camping spot in winter. Ice camping refers to winter backpacking on frozen rivers or lakes, offering a unique winter backpacking experience. When planning for ice camping, it is crucial to check that the ice is at least 20cm thick, and extra care is needed when packing for warmth or setting up tents. Despite the risks, it draws many people each year who want to enjoy backpacking on the clear ice. It takes only about 10 minutes to walk from the parking lot to Baebawi Rock, making it suitable for those who want to enjoy backpacking without the burden of a long hike.



Address: 153-5 Magok-gil Seo-myeon, Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do



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