Jeju Island & Olle Trail Guide: Korea’s Best Long-Distance Trekking

Jeju Island’s stunning coastline offers a unique trekking experience found nowhere else in the world.

1. What is Jeju Island?

Jeju Island is a volcanic island located south of the Korean Peninsula. It is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, famous for its unique environment. Formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity, the island features Hallasan Mountain, "Oreums" (volcanic cones), and distinct basalt landscapes.

Ocean, mountains, forests, and villages all coexist within this single island, making it one of the most popular travel destinations in Korea. Today, it’s not just a place for car trips but is gaining global attention as a premier walking destination. 

2. History and Culture of Jeju

Jeju has a distinct cultural identity. Historically, it was an independent nation called the Tamna Kingdom before being incorporated into Korea during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties. It was used as a place of exile for a long time, which helped form its unique and independent culture.

The Unique Jeju Dialect 

Due to its isolated history, the Jeju dialect (Jeju-eo) is so unique that even native Koreans from the mainland find it difficult to understand. It feels almost like a foreign language because its pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar differ significantly from standard Korean.

Haenyeo and Samdado

Jeju is nicknamed Samdado (Island of Three Abundances: Rocks, Wind, and Women). "Women" refers to the Haenyeo (female divers), who harvest seafood without oxygen tanks. Their traditional culture is inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

3. What is the Jeju Olle Trail?

The Jeju Olle Trail is a long-distance trekking network that circles the entire island. Inspired by the Camino de Santiago, it connects local villages, forests, and coastlines, encouraging a "slow travel" philosophy.

• Friendship Trails: If you complete both the Jeju Olle and the Camino de Santiago, you can receive a Joint Completion Certificate.

• Flexible Completion: You don't have to walk the whole 437km at once. If you accumulate 100km of walking on any course, you are eligible for a certificate.

4. Essential Information & Passport Details

• Total Courses: 27 courses / 437km

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Jeju Olle Passport (For Completion Certificate):

• The passport is only required for those who wish to receive an official completion certificate. If you are walking just for sightseeing, you do not need it.

• You can choose between a physical paper passport or a digital QR stamp version via the mobile app.

• Price: Both versions cost 20,000 KRW (approx. $15–17 USD).

• Official Website: For more detailed maps and updates, visit the Official Jeju Olle Website (English).

5. How to Walk: Direction & Markers 

Finding your way on the Olle trail is easy if you follow the color-coded markers:

• Blue Arrows: Indicate the Forward Direction (clockwise).

• Orange Arrows: Indicate the Reverse Direction (counter-clockwise).

• Ribbons & Ganse: You will also see blue and orange ribbons tied to trees and "Ganse" (pony-shaped statues) at the start of each course.

• Clean Olle: You can participate in "Clean Olle" by picking up litter while you walk. It’s a meaningful way to protect Jeju’s nature.

Look for these markers: Blue arrows lead the way forward, while orange arrows guide you in the reverse direction.

6. Best Seasons for Trekking

• Spring (March–April): Most popular season with Canola and Cherry blossoms.

• Autumn (September–November): Best for walking due to the cool and crisp weather.

• Winter: Quiet and peaceful, but the wind can be very strong. Windbreakers are essential!

7. Gear & Preparation

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The Importance of Footwear

The trail consists of many volcanic rock (basalt) paths. You MUST wear trekking shoes with good ankle support and grip. This is the most critical item for your safety.

Essential Items:

• Windbreaker (Essential for Oreums and coastal paths)

• Water & Snacks (There are many convenience stores along the trail, so you don't need to carry much. However, since vegan options are not yet widely available in Korea, those who need specific vegan snacks should prepare them in advance.)

• First-aid kit (Pharmacies are often available along the routes, and basic medicines like cold flu pills are sold at convenience stores. You only need to carry specific prescription medications, such as asthma inhalers, for your personal needs.)

8. Journey Toward Completion

This blog is a personal record of my journey to complete the entire 400km of the Jeju Olle Trail. I will share detailed reviews, difficulty levels, and real-life tips for each course.

Don't forget to stamp your Olle Passport! It's the perfect way to celebrate your 437km journey.

Join me as I walk around this beautiful island!