The clifftop observatory
The open sea from above.
Christophe95 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · *intacto — CC BY 2.0 · Seokjoon Choi — CC BY 2.0 · Cheolsoo87 — CC BY-SA 4.0
A natural park at the southern tip of Yeongdo island: dense forest of pine and evergreens ending in sheer rock cliffs that drop to the open sea. Its name is said to come from King Taejong Muyeol, a seventh-century king of Silla, who liked to practise archery here. A loop road about four kilometres long circles the park, closed to private cars. Along it is a clifftop observatory over the sea, from which the Japanese island of Tsushima can be seen on clear days. Beyond it stands the white Yeongdo Lighthouse, with steps leading down to a broad, flat rock above the waves. Visitors walk the loop in about two hours or ride a small sightseeing train that stops at the sights. Visitor guides reported that the train was suspended in summer 2026 for a safety inspection and replaced by a free shuttle, so check when you arrive, and note that it does not usually run on Mondays. Entry to the park is free. Bring water and wear proper shoes: the way down to the lighthouse and the rocks is all steps.
The open sea from above.
A white light above the rocks.
A shaded, car-free road.
24 Jeonmang-ro, southern tip of Yeongdo island; buses from Busan Station and Nampo Station
Yes, entry is free. Only the sightseeing train needs a ticket, and it is optional: the loop can be walked in about two hours.