Exploring South Korea’s Jeju Island as a Source of Beauty
A trending travel destination, South Korea is known for leading the beauty market in transformative products that use anti-aging ingredients from the famed Jeju Island. But which beauty products and how do I get to Jeju?
South Korea is trending as a popular travel destination, with tourism driven by the global appeal of its K-culture (K-pop, K-beauty and more), the Broadway hit Maybe Happy Ending, advancements in beauty, technology, and appealing, ancient landscapes. South Korea is a major trending hub for beauty products, consistently ranking among the top global markets and exporters, known for innovation in skincare and a strong focus on natural ingredients and aesthetic packaging.
We recently discovered KAHI beauty products from Seoul—a leader in K-beauty since 2020, largely due to its use of the intriguing Jeju Origin Oil from the famed “Hawaii of Korea,” Jeju Island.
The bestselling KAHI Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm Stick is a multi-purpose moisturizing and anti-aging balm for areas prone to fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also great for traveling as it’s solid not liquid. And this product uses the trending ingredient of the moment: salmon milt (aka PDRN or sperm). This ingredient is typically sourced from chum salmon or salmon trout, which are part of the fishing industry off the strait near South Korea’s Jeju Island. KAHI also has a handy and gentle sunscreen. (Shop all the KAHI products here. There is a lightning sale of around 30% off several essential products until the end of August.)
So What’s in Jeju Origin Oil?
KAHI’s Jeju Origin Oil is a combination of fermented plant oils, primarily featuring oils from Schisandra Berries, Cape Jasmine (Gardenia), turmeric, and carrot root. Sourced from Jeju Island and fermented for 144 hours, this oil blend provides deep hydration, enhances moisture retention, and gives the skin a healthy glow, while its natural emollient and antioxidant properties help delay signs of aging. It’s also one of those secret ingredients that some folks notice about Korean beauty products that give the “porcelain skin” affect.
The oil contributes to strengthening the skin’s natural barrier and adds a glowing, “lit-from-within” appearance to the skin. It also boosts the longevity of makeup when applied before or after. All these natural ingredients come from a little-known place…
Where is Jeju Island?
Jeju Island is located in the Korea Strait, off the southern coast of South Korea. It is the largest island in the country and is a self-governing province.
Jeju is a volcanic island, and its central feature is Hallasan, a dormant volcano that is also the highest mountain in South Korea. The volcanic landscapes and lava tubes are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island has a humid, subtropical climate.
The provincial capital and largest city is Jeju City, on the northern coast. The second-largest city, Seogwipo, is on the southern coast and is a major tourist center.
Known as the “Hawaii of South Korea,” Jeju is a popular vacation destination for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, hiking trails, and unique culture.
What Are Things to Do and See on Jeju?
Jeju Island offers a wide array of natural wonders, cultural sites, and unique experiences for visitors. Highlights range from volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches to vibrant markets and modern art museums.
Natural and outdoor attractions
Hallasan National Park: This park is centered around Hallasan, South Korea’s tallest mountain and a shield volcano with a crater lake at its summit. Numerous hiking trails allow visitors to explore the diverse scenery.
Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): A UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic landmark, this tuff cone was formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions. Visitors can hike to the peak to catch a stunning sunrise or enjoy a wide view of the ocean.
Manjanggul Cave: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage-listed lava tube, one of the largest in the world. The cave’s unique geological formations include lava stalagmites and rock pillars.
Bijarim Forest: Walk through this ancient nutmeg forest, home to over 2,800 nutmeg trees, some of which are over 500 years old.
Andol Oreum Secret Forest: A tranquil retreat with dense cypress trees and quiet hiking trails, this formerly private forest is now a popular spot for nature lovers.
Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff: Admire unique, honeycomb-like volcanic rock formations that stretch along the coast. These columnar joints were created when lava cooled rapidly upon meeting the sea.
Hyeopjae Beach: Situated in Hallim-eup, this beach is famous for its clean, transparent emerald waters, white sand, and views of Biyangdo Island.
Hamdeok Beach: Known for its clear, shallow turquoise waters and fine sand, this is a great spot for swimming and relaxation, with cafes and restaurants nearby.
Udo Island: Take a short boat trip to this tiny neighboring island to enjoy its unique scenery, including the Rhodolith Beach with its reddish-colored sand.
Jeongbang Waterfall: This is one of the rare waterfalls in the world that cascades directly into the ocean.
Cheonjeyeon Falls: Admire this three-tiered waterfall located within the Jungmun Tourist Complex.
Dodu-dong Rainbow Coastal Road: Take a scenic drive or walk along this coastal road featuring a rainbow-painted seawall, a popular photo spot.
Cultural and themed attractions
Jeju Dongmun Traditional Market: The largest and oldest market on the island, it offers fresh seafood, local produce, and street food. At night, it transforms into a bustling night market.
O’sulloc Tea Museum: Learn about Korea’s tea history and tradition, then explore the adjoining green tea plantation. The museum and cafe offer an immersive experience for tea lovers.
Jeju Loveland: An offbeat, sex-themed sculpture park featuring fun and humorous art, poking fun at the island’s former appeal as a honeymoon destination.
Arte Museum: This immersive media art museum showcases captivating visuals, light, and sound installations inspired by nature.
Seongeup Folk Village: Step back in time by visiting this historic village, where well-preserved buildings from the Joseon Dynasty offer a glimpse into Jeju’s heritage.
Jeju Haenyeo Performance: Witness the demonstration of the unique diving culture of Jeju’s female free-divers, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. These incredible women are diving in their 50s and some well into their 80s and 90s.
How Do I Get There?
There are no direct flights from American cities to Jeju International Airport (CJU) but you can fly in via a connecting layover at a major airport such as Hong Kong (HKG) or Incheon International Airport (Seoul).
Once on Jeju, renting a car is an efficient way to explore the island, but for those less familiar with the area, taxi tours offer a convenient and customizable way to see the top destinations.
Where Do I Stay on Jeju?
To choose where to stay on Jeju Island, consider Jeju City for easy airport access and city amenities, Seogwipo for a vibrant atmosphere and attractions, the Jungmun Tourist District for family-friendly luxury resorts, and Aewol for a quiet, beach-focused escape. Other options include the scenic, quieter areas of Seongsan in the east for countryside views and the lively city center near attractions like Hallasan.
Here is a guide to hotels in Jeju City for as little as $60 a night! Browse the top hotels here.
Is There a Gay Bar on Jeju Island?
There is at least one LGBTQ+ bar on Jeju Island called BUNKER. While the gay scene is not as prominent as in larger cities like Seoul, Jeju is generally considered a welcoming destination with LGBTQ-friendly accommodations available.
Jeju City has held Pride events, with its first taking place in 2017 and the most recent in 2024, according to Facebook. Apps like Tinder and Grindr are commonly used on the island for meeting other members of the LGBTQ+ community.
The top gay-approved and LGBTQ-friendly hosts are here.
