Seoul’s tech, creativity and K-pop might be what come to mind when you think of Korea, but the capital’s energy couldn’t be more different from the wild, volcanic calm of Jeju Island. A UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, Jeju is shaped by lava tubes, crater lakes and semi-tropical forest. Its culture runs deep, led by the haenyeo: the island’s famed female free divers. With black-rock coastlines and an easy island rhythm, Jeju is the perfect chaser to Seoul’s high-energy sprawl.

Seoul sits in South Korea’s north, while Jeju Island lies off the country’s southern coast in the Korea Strait. They are about 450 kilometres apart. The two are separated by the mainland’s mountain spine and open sea, meaning you’ll need roughly a one-hour flight or a full-day land-and-ferry journey to get there.

There are a few different options, and depending on your budget, we’re confident there’s one that’s perfect for your travel needs.

Flying is by far the quickest and most convenient way to reach Jeju. Non-stop flights run every day from Seoul Gimpo Airport (GMP), with carriers ranging from budget options like Jin Air, Jeju Air, Air Seoul and Eastar Jet to full-service airlines like Korean Air and Asiana. In the low season, fares can be surprisingly affordable, while October and holiday periods push prices higher. With flights taking just over an hour, it’s the obvious choice for short stays or anyone wanting to maximise their time on the island.

Taking the KTX bullet train south, then a ferry across to Jeju, is the most comfortable land–sea combo. The train zips through the countryside, and you can connect easily to southern ferry ports like Yeosu or Wando directly, or by local transport or taxi in between. 

It’s scenic, flexible, and ideal if you’d like to see more of regional Korea along the way. The trade-off: it’s slower and often costs as much as a short flight.

This is the budget-friendly, no-frills route for travellers with plenty of time to spare. Long-distance buses in Korea are comfortable, with reclining seats and frequent rest stops. Once in the south, it’s an easy taxi ride to the port, where ferries connect to Jeju. 

You’ll see more of rural Korea on the road, but the journey is long. It’s better suited to slow travellers or those avoiding airports.

Driving gives you total flexibility. You can stop at beaches, mountain towns or cafés en route to the coast. You can load your car onto the ferry and continue exploring once you reach Jeju, which is especially handy for families or road-trip travellers. Do note the long drive (around 450–500 km) and potential wait times at ferry terminals. It’s rewarding but best for confident drivers used to long distances.

The best way to get from Seoul to Jeju is by direct flight. It’s fast, affordable and incredibly frequent, with departures almost hourly from Seoul Gimpo Airport. This makes it the most convenient choice for most travellers.

The cheapest way to get from Seoul to Jeju is usually by budget flight with a low-cost carrier such as Jeju Air or Eastar Jet. Promo fares can dip as low as KRW 22,000 (around AU$25) one way – often cheaper than taking a ferry once you factor in time and transfers.

The fastest way to get from Seoul to Jeju is by plane, taking just about one hour of flight time. With frequent departures from Seoul Gimpo and Incheon airports, it’s the quickest door-to-door option.