Udo, the small volcanic island off Jeju’s east coast, is one of Korea’s most photographed destinations — but getting there trips up a surprising number of travelers who assume they can book online in advance. Here’s exactly how the ferry system works.
You cannot book Udo ferry tickets online. Go to Seongsan Port Passenger Terminal in person with your passport or ID, fill out a boarding declaration form, and buy your ticket at the counter. Ferries run roughly every 30 minutes, more frequently in summer (May-August).
1. No Online Booking — Here’s Why That Matters
Unlike many Korean transportation options, Udo ferry tickets cannot be reserved online. You need to physically go to Seongsan Port Passenger Terminal and bring valid ID (your passport works for foreign visitors).
2. Ferry Schedule
| Season | First Ferry | Last Ferry |
|---|---|---|
| Peak season (May-August) | 7:00 AM | 6:30 PM |
| Off-season (September-April) | 8:00 AM | 5:00-6:00 PM |
Sailings can be adjusted based on sea conditions. The departure board at the terminal shows the most current, accurate schedule — check it in person even if you’ve researched times online beforehand.
3. Two Different Ports on Udo — Know the Difference
| Cheonjin Port | Hawoomokdong Port | |
|---|---|---|
| Travel time | ~15-20 min | ~20-25 min |
| Vibe | Busier, more shops/cafes/restaurants | Quieter, more natural |
| Nearby sights | Seobinbaeksa Beach, Geommeolle Beach | Udobong Peak, Udo Lighthouse |
If you’re planning to circle the whole island (which most visitors do), it doesn’t matter much which port you arrive at first. Just confirm with staff which port your specific ferry is heading to before boarding, since both ports may have ferries departing around the same time.
4. The Booking Process, Step by Step
Step 1 — Arrive at Seongsan Port Passenger Terminal
Step 2 — Fill out a boarding declaration form (name, date of birth, gender, phone number — one per passenger)
Step 3 — Present ID at the ticket counter and purchase your ticket
Step 4 — Keep both your ticket and remaining portion of the declaration form
Step 5 — Proceed to boarding; ID may be checked again right before boarding
5. Car Rentals: Mostly Restricted Since 2017
Since August 2017, Udo has restricted rental car access to reduce congestion. Vehicle loading is generally only permitted for: travelers with children under 6, registered disabled persons, those 65+ who have difficulty using public transport, pregnant travelers, and anyone staying overnight on the island.
Udo has a local shuttle bus loop, plus bicycle and electric scooter rentals near both ports — genuinely popular ways to explore the island’s compact size.
6. What’s Udo Actually Like?
Udo is famous for turquoise water, black lava rock coastline, and its own peanut and ice cream specialties (Udo peanut ice cream is a well-known local treat). Udobong Peak offers panoramic views if you’re up for a short hike, and the beaches — particularly Seobinbaeksa with its coral sand — are among Jeju’s most photographed spots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far in advance should I arrive at the port?
Since there’s no online reservation and lines can build up, especially in peak season, arriving 30-60 minutes before your intended departure gives you a buffer.
Q: What if I miss the last ferry back?
You would need to stay overnight on Udo, so plan your return time with a safety margin rather than cutting it close to the last departure.
Q: Do I need a passport, or is any ID fine?
For foreign visitors, a passport is the standard accepted ID. Korean nationals typically use their resident registration card or driver’s license.
Q: Is there a round-trip discount?
The round-trip fare includes Udo Marine Park admission, so the ticket structure already reflects this — you typically don’t buy separate one-way tickets each direction unless your itinerary requires it.