Hey everyone, Mark here! As a seasoned backpacker with a serious soft spot for Asia, I'm always on the hunt for unique experiences. This time, my adventure led me to Jeju Island, a gem off the southwestern coast of South Korea. I'd heard whispers of its stunning landscapes and fascinating culture, but nothing could have prepared me for the amazing journey I had!
Island Overview
Jeju Island is much larger than I anticipated – about the size of New Taipei City! Renting a car is a must if you want to explore its diverse regions. Three things immediately struck me about Jeju: the wind (it was seriously blowing on the day I arrived!), the abundance of volcanic rock formations, and the ubiquitous Dolhareubang statues. These iconic figures, carved from volcanic rock, are believed to be guardians. The placement of their hands – right hand higher for civil officials, left hand higher for military officials – adds another layer to their symbolic meaning.
The Intriguing History of Haenyeo
Jeju's history is intertwined with its unique Haenyeo culture, which dates back over 2,000 years. These incredible women – the "sea women" – free dive to gather seafood, a tradition recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. I was itching to experience this firsthand! Locals shared stories about the island's strong female presence, rooted in the dangers faced by fishermen husbands. With the rough seas claiming lives, women took to the water to provide for their families, giving rise to the Haenyeo.
A Culinary Journey Through Jeju
Of course, no trip to Jeju is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. My first stop was for a delicious Korean lunch.
| Dish | Description | My Take |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp Seaweed Rice Rolls | Seaweed rice rolls filled with shrimp. Definitely Instagram-worthy! | The shrimp had a nice bouncy texture, like shrimp cakes in a burger. The seasoning was a slightly spicy mayonnaise-based sauce. Delicious and visually appealing. |
The Haenyeo Experience
While the ideal time to dive with the Haenyeo is between May and October, the chilly weather during my visit meant an indoor experience. I was initially bummed, but this turned out to be a fantastic introduction.
It felt like diver training! We learned equalization techniques, practiced with snorkels and fins, and even got to try diving in a 3-meter deep pool. Seeing an octopus in the pool added an extra thrill! While I wasn't able to dive in the ocean this time, the indoor experience gave me a taste of the Haenyeo's skills and resilience, and I'm determined to return in warmer months for the real deal.
More Culinary Delights
My culinary adventure continued with a feast of fresh seafood. I tried belt fish, a local delicacy, for the first time. The restaurant, run by three generations of women, served up an incredibly flavorful and fresh dish. The accompanying banchan (side dishes) and ramen completed the perfect meal. Later, I sampled fresh shrimp sashimi, a must-try in Jeju! The island's famous oranges were also a treat, especially in the form of a vibrant orange ice cream.
Jeju Night Market Adventures
No trip is complete without experiencing the local markets. The Dongmun Market was a sensory overload, with vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to unique street food. I tried citrus garlic chicken, a flavor unique to Jeju, and some amazing four-colored dumplings (mandu). The market's energy was infectious, and I even stumbled across a vendor who bore a striking resemblance to Son Heung-min, the famous Korean footballer!
Final Thoughts
Jeju Island is a destination that truly captivated me. From the breathtaking scenery to the rich culture and delicious food, there's something for everyone. My experience with the Haenyeo, even though it wasn't in the open ocean, left a lasting impression. I urge every traveler seeking an unforgettable Asian adventure to add Jeju Island to their list! It's a journey you won't regret.
