Jeongbang Falls
Jeongbang Falls (정방폭포; map) is the only waterfall in Korea where water flows directly into the sea. Situated just 1.5 kilometers southeast of downtown Seogwipo, the 23-meter-high waterfall, fed by the Donghong Stream, cascades over a rugged volcanic cliff into the open ocean.
Unique Features
Jeongbang Falls is one of the few waterfalls in the world where freshwater flows directly into the ocean. This rare feature sets it apart not only on Jeju Island but globally. The dual streams of the waterfall create a roar that echoes through tall cliffs of the Jaguri Coast.
The falls are framed by basalt cliffs, created when volcanic activity formed Jeju Island. These towering formations showcase hexagonal patterns typical of lava rapidly cooling in the sea.
Legends
Jeongbang Falls is steeped in local legends that add depth to its natural beauty.
- The Holy Dragon — According to one tale, a sacred dragon resides beneath the falls, its spirit capable of healing ailments and bringing rain to end droughts. Some visitors often feel a sense of reverence for the mythical energy attributed to the site.
- Seobul and the Elixir of Life — Another legend tells of Seobul, a servant of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang (259 ~ 210 BCE), who journeyed to Jeju in search of the elixir of eternal youth. Seobul is said to have engraved the words “Seobulgwacha” (“Seobul passed by here”) onto the cliffs at Jeongbang Falls. Although the original inscription is no longer visible, the story remains a vital part of Jeju’s narrative, linking the falls to ancient quests for immortality.
History
Jeongbang Falls has long been celebrated for its cultural and historical importance. During the Joseon Dynasty, Jeongbang Falls was recognized as one of Jeju’s Ten Scenic Wonders (Yeongju Sipgeong)
The falls also bear the weight of Jeju’s darker history. During the 1948 Jeju Uprising, the area around Jeongbang Falls was the sight of mass executions of armed protestors by the government. In the Sonammeori Area (소남머리; map), which surrounded the falls, you can find markers and memorials.
Visiting
The falls are easily reached. Buy your ticket from a ticket booth on the edge of its parking lot, then walk down a set of stairs. At the bottom, find a patio that leads to a field of boulders.
If you’re comfortable, scramble of the large, smooth rocks to get a closer look at the falls. (Be careful, the trek closer is uncomfortable if you have shoes without much traction.)
The falls include a small bathing pool where visitors can inch closer to the falls.
The waterfall is most impressive after heavy rainfall, when its flow is at its peak. Morning visits provide soft lighting for photography, while late afternoons offer stunning views of the falls against the setting sun.
- Entrance Fees:
- Adults: 2,000 won
- Children: 1,000 won
- Free Admission: Children under 6, seniors over 65, and Jeju residents
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry: 5:40 PM)
