How to get from Seoul to Ulleungdo

Getting from Seoul to wild, windswept Ulleungdo takes a little planning, but the combo of high-speed trains, coastal buses and ferries is absolutely worth it for one of Korea’s most dramatic islands.

At A Glance (Seoul to Ulleungdo)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚄⛴️ KTX/Train + High-speed Ferry via Gangneung	~2–2.5h train + 15–30m to port + ~3h ferry	Fastest, comfortable, scenic
🏷️ Cost: ~KRW 105,000–145,000 one-way (train + ferry). Compare train timetables on Seoul–Gangneung trains and check Gangneung–Ulleungdo ferry tickets on Klook.
🚌⛴️ Express Bus + Ferry via Gangneung or Mukho (Donghae)	~2.5–3.5h bus + 10–30m transfer + 2.5–3h ferry	Budget travelers, flexible timetable
🏷️ Cost: Bus ~KRW 25,000–35,000 + ferry ~KRW 60,000–75,000. Check bus seats from Seoul to Gangneung on Klook intercity buses; compare trains as a backup on 12Go.
🚌⛴️ Bus/Train + Ferry via Pohang or Hupo	~3.5–4.5h to port + 3–6.5h ferry (vessel-dependent)	Those wanting overnight cruise or bringing a car
🏷️ Cost: Port access ~KRW 30,000–40,000 + ferry ~KRW 70,000–90,000 (more with vehicle). See Pohang–Ulleungdo ferry options on Klook and schedules from multiple ports on Ulleung-gun’s official Schedule & Fares page.
🧳🚍⛴️ Packaged Tour (Coach + Ferry + Hotel)	3–4 day packages; ~7–10h travel each way built-in	Hassle-free first-time visitors, families
🏷️ Cost: Packages typically from ~KRW 400,000–600,000 pp including round-trip ferry and lodging. Browse Ulleungdo tours and activities on Klook Ulleungdo experiences or compare Korea trips on GetYourGuide.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest and most comfortable: Choose Option #1 (KTX/Train + Ferry via Gangneung) if you prefer smooth high-speed rail and a quick 3-hour high-speed ferry. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want to avoid complex transfers.
• Cheapest and most flexible: Go with Option #2 (Express Bus + Ferry via Gangneung or Mukho). Express buses run frequently, often slightly cheaper than KTX, and Mukho ferries can be a touch less expensive than other routes.
• Most scenic and car-friendly: Pick Option #3 (Bus/Train + Ferry via Pohang or Hupo) if you like the idea of a longer cruise-style ferry or need a car ferry from Hupo to Sadong Port on Ulleungdo.
• Most hassle-free: If you’d rather someone else handle tickets and port logistics, a packaged Ulleungdo tour from Seoul is great value, especially during peak seasons like summer and Chuseok.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book ferries early: Ulleungdo ferries often sell out on weekends and holidays. Use platforms like Klook’s ferry section where available, then double-check times on Ulleung-gun’s official Schedule and Fares page.
• Reserve trains in advance: High-speed and ITX trains from Seoul toward Gangneung can fill up. Reserve directly on the Korail official booking page or through your Korail Pass, or compare options on 12Go.
• Watch the weather: Ferries can be cancelled or rerouted due to high waves and wind. Keep your schedule flexible and check updates on Ulleung-gun’s official notices and your booking platform.
• Motion sickness prep: Crossings can be bumpy. Pack seasickness tablets, sit near the center of the ship, and avoid heavy meals right before departure.
• Luggage and storage: Travel light if you can. If you need to stash a large suitcase in Seoul while you island-hop, consider short-term storage through Radical Storage near major stations and tourist areas.
• Accommodation on both ends: It’s smart to have a fallback hotel in Seoul or your departure city in case ferries are cancelled. Use Booking.com for Seoul stays and search guesthouses on Ulleungdo via Booking.com Ulleungdo.
• Local transport and ride-hailing: Around Seoul and the east coast ports, you can use taxis hailed via apps like Kakao T or UT. For a pre-arranged English-friendly pickup (for example from your Seoul hotel to the bus terminal), look at private transfers with Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer.
• On-island mobility: Ulleungdo has buses and taxis; many visitors also rent scooters or small cars. You can research and compare motorbike and scooter rentals across Korea on BikesBooking, then confirm availability with local providers on the island.

🚄⛴️ Option #1 — KTX/Train + High-speed Ferry via Gangneung (Fast & Comfortable)

Good balance of cost Shortest travel time Weather-sensitive ferries

• Overview: Travel from Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni to Gangneung by KTX or ITX (around 2–2.5 hours), transfer a short distance to Gangneung Port Passenger Terminal, then take a high-speed ferry (~3 hours) to Jeodong Port on Ulleungdo.
• Typical duration: Around 5.5–7 hours door-to-door from central Seoul, depending on connection times.
• How to book (with price): KTX/ITX tickets Seoul–Gangneung usually cost about KRW 37,000–45,000 one-way in standard class; compare schedules and approximate fares on 12Go’s Seoul–Gangneung train page or book directly via Korail. High-speed ferries from Gangneung to Jeodong are typically KRW 60,000–70,000 one-way, and you can purchase tickets or round-trip packages on Klook Gangneung–Ulleungdo ferry, then cross-check sailings via Ulleung-gun’s official Gangneung route info.
• Pros: Fastest overall route from Seoul; comfortable high-speed train; ferry crosses directly to Ulleungdo’s Jeodong Port; plenty of daily trains to and from Gangneung.
• Cons: Ferries are highly weather-dependent; peak-season seats sell out days in advance; online booking pages for the ferry operators are often Korean-only.
• Ideal for: Travelers with limited days in Korea who want to minimize overland travel time and prioritize comfort.

Step-by-step: Train + Ferry via Gangneung

1. Book your train from Seoul to Gangneung. Choose a morning KTX or ITX from Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni, aiming to arrive in Gangneung at least 1.5–2 hours before ferry departure. Reserve directly with Korail or compare departure times on 12Go.
2. Reserve your ferry seat. Once you know your train arrival time, secure a ferry ticket on a high-speed service from Gangneung Port to Jeodong Port. English-friendly booking is possible via Klook’s Gangneung–Ulleungdo ferry product. Double-check the latest timetable on Ulleung-gun’s official schedule.
3. Travel from Seoul to Gangneung Station. On departure day, arrive at Seoul Station 20–30 minutes early to find your platform and board your reserved train. Snacks and drinks are available on board; Wi-Fi is common on KTX services.
4. Transfer to Gangneung Port Passenger Terminal. From Gangneung Station, take a short taxi ride (around 10–15 minutes) or local bus to Gangneung Port Passenger Terminal. You can use Kakao T or UT apps to hail a taxi if you prefer an app-based ride.
5. Check in at the ferry terminal. Present your passport (foreigners must carry it) and booking confirmation at the ticket counter. You’ll receive a paper boarding pass and seat assignment. Boarding usually starts 30–40 minutes before departure.
6. Enjoy the crossing to Jeodong Port. The high-speed ferry takes roughly 3 hours. Grab a seat near the middle of the ship if you’re prone to motion sickness, and keep an eye out for dramatic sea cliffs as Ulleungdo comes into view.
7. Arrive and transfer on Ulleungdo. From Jeodong, local buses and taxis connect to Dodong (about 10 minutes away) and other villages. If you’ve pre-booked accommodation via Booking.com Ulleungdo stays, many guesthouses will provide clear arrival instructions in your confirmation.

Getting to the main embarking points (Gangneung Port)

• From central Seoul: Use the subway or a taxi to reach Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni. If you want a door-to-station transfer with luggage, consider booking a private car through GetTransfer or Welcome Pickups, or simply hail a Kakao T taxi.
• From Seoul to Gangneung: Take a KTX or ITX train east to Gangneung (about 2–2.5 hours). Check the latest train information on the Korail global site.
• Gangneung Station to Gangneung Port: Taxis wait outside the station; the port is a short ride away. Alternatively, local city buses serve the waterfront area, but signage may mostly be in Korean.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌⛴️ Option #2 — Express Bus + Ferry via Gangneung or Mukho (Budget-Friendly)

Lower overland cost Direct from Seoul bus terminals Longer travel time

• Overview: Ride an express bus from Seoul (typically from Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal) to Gangneung or Donghae, then connect by local bus or taxi to Gangneung Port or Mukho Port and board a fast ferry to Ulleungdo.
• Typical duration: Around 6.5–8 hours total: ~3 hours bus + transfer + 2.5–3 hours ferry.
• How to book (with price): Express buses Seoul–Gangneung usually cost about KRW 25,000–35,000 depending on bus class; you can check schedules and book seats online on Klook’s Seoul–Gangneung express bus. Ferries from Gangneung or Mukho to Ulleungdo run about KRW 60,000–75,000 one-way; some departures are available through Klook (Gangneung/Mukho–Ulleungdo), with full seasonal details published on the Ulleung-gun Schedule & Fares page.
• Pros: More departures across the day from Seoul; cheaper than KTX; Mukho crossings are often slightly shorter (~2h 40m) than Pohang or some cruise ferries.
• Cons: Buses can be slower and less spacious than KTX; bus terminals may be less intuitive than train stations for first-time visitors; you’ll still need a short taxi or local bus ride to the port.
• Ideal for: Budget-conscious travelers and those comfortable using Korean bus terminals and simple transfers.

Step-by-step: Express Bus + Ferry via Gangneung / Mukho

1. Pick your departure port: Gangneung or Mukho. Gangneung Port ferries arrive at Jeodong, while Mukho Port ferries typically arrive at Dodong Port. It’s easy to travel between Dodong and Jeodong on local buses or taxis.
2. Reserve an express bus from Seoul. From Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal, book a bus to Gangneung or Donghae/Mukho. You can compare times and fares on Klook’s bus listings or purchase tickets at the terminal ticket counters.
3. Book your ferry. Check the seasonal schedule for Gangneung and Mukho on Ulleung-gun’s official timetable, then buy tickets either at the port ticket office or on an English-friendly platform like Klook.
4. Travel by bus to the east coast. On your travel day, reach the bus terminal at least 20–30 minutes before departure. Express buses are assigned seats and usually have reclining seats, air-conditioning, and rest stops.
5. Connect from bus terminal to port. In Gangneung, taxis and local buses link the express bus terminal to the ferry terminal. In Donghae, short taxi rides connect you from the city or Donghae bus terminal to Mukho Harbor.
6. Check in and board the ferry. As with the train option, arrive 1–1.5 hours early with your passport and booking confirmation. Staff will check IDs and assign seats.
7. Arrive at Dodong or Jeodong. From the harbor, follow signs or ask at the tourist information desks for buses and taxis. You can continue by local bus to Nari Basin, Taeha, or other villages, or walk if your guesthouse is nearby.

Getting to the main embarking points (Gangneung / Mukho)

• Seoul bus terminals: Seoul Express Bus Terminal (south of the river) and Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (east) both offer frequent east-coast buses. Use the Seoul subway or Kakao T taxi to reach them from your hotel.
• Gangneung side: From Gangneung Express Bus Terminal, take a taxi or local bus to Gangneung Port Passenger Terminal. Travel time is usually under 20 minutes.
• Mukho side: From Donghae or Mukho bus stops, it’s a short taxi ride to Donghae Mukho Passenger Terminal, where ferries depart for Dodong Port on Ulleungdo.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌⛴️ Option #3 — Bus/Train + Ferry via Pohang or Hupo (Cruise-style & Car Ferry)

Car ferry option Overnight / long crossings Longest total travel time

• Overview: Travel from Seoul to Pohang or Uljin’s Hupo Port by intercity bus or train, then continue by long-distance ferry or car ferry to Ulleungdo. This option suits travelers who prefer a cruise-style journey or who need to bring a vehicle.
• Typical duration: About 9–11 hours total: ~3.5–4.5 hours to Pohang or Hupo, plus 3–6.5 hours on the ferry depending on vessel and route.
• How to book (with price): Buses from Seoul to Pohang usually cost around KRW 30,000–40,000. Ferries from Pohang or Hupo to Ulleungdo typically run about KRW 70,000–90,000 for a regular seat, with higher fares for premium cabins or vehicles. You can book Pohang–Ulleungdo tickets via Klook’s Pohang–Ulleung cruise and confirm up-to-date schedules and fares on Ulleung-gun’s official Pohang route and Schedule & Fares pages.
• Pros: Option to bring a car on the Hupo–Sadong car ferry; more of a “mini-cruise” experience with larger ships; can be a good backup if Gangneung/Mukho sailings are sold out.
• Cons: Longer total journey; schedules may be less frequent; car ferry booking is complex and usually requires Korean-language support.
• Ideal for: Road-trippers, travelers with lots of luggage, or those who want to enjoy a slower sea journey.

Step-by-step: Bus/Train + Ferry via Pohang or Hupo

1. Decide whether you’re bringing a car. If you’re traveling with a rental car, confirm in advance that your rental company allows ferry crossings. If yes, the Hupo–Sadong car ferry may be your best match; otherwise, you can travel as a foot passenger from Pohang or Hupo.
2. Travel from Seoul to Pohang or Hupo. From Seoul, take an express bus to Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal, or use rail connections (KTX/ITX + regional trains) as available. For Uljin/Hupo, long-distance buses from Seoul or Daegu are common; check schedules at bus terminals or via Korean transport apps.
3. Reserve your ferry. Use an English-friendly platform like Klook (Pohang–Ulleungdo) for ticketing where available. For the latest official timetable, refer to Ulleung-gun’s Schedule and Fares and follow links to the ferry companies for detailed car-ferry information.
4. Get to the ferry terminal. From Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal, taxis and local buses connect to Yeongilman New Port or other designated ferry terminals. From Hupo, buses and taxis link Uljin’s town center with Hupo Port.
5. Check-in and vehicle procedures. Foot passengers check in at least 1 hour before departure; vehicles must arrive longer in advance for inspection and loading. Follow staff instructions carefully and remain in the assigned waiting area until boarding.
6. Enjoy the longer sea crossing. Larger ferries often have lounges, snack bars, and outside decks. Bring layers, as air-conditioning can be strong, and pack entertainment for the 3–6.5 hour voyage.
7. Arrival at Sadong or Dodong. Car ferries often dock at Sadong Port; passenger-only ferries may arrive at Dodong. From either, it’s easy to reach Dodong town and beyond by local bus or taxi.

Getting to the main embarking points (Pohang / Hupo)

• From Seoul to Pohang: Express buses run from Seoul Express Bus Terminal and Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal. Tickets can be purchased on site or via Korean-language apps; for a more comfortable transfer from your hotel to the bus terminal, consider Welcome Pickups or Kakao T taxis.
• From Pohang Terminal to port: Local buses and taxis connect the intercity bus terminal with Yeongilman New Port (where many Ulleungdo ferries depart). Allow at least 30–40 minutes for the transfer and check-in.
• From Seoul to Hupo: Take an express or intercity bus toward Uljin/Hupo; routes often connect via major hubs like Daegu. Confirm the latest schedule in person at the terminal or on Korean bus apps.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Seoul to Ulleungdo)

How many days do I need on Ulleungdo?
Most visitors stay 2–3 nights to allow for weather delays and to see key sights like Seonginbong Peak, Nari Basin, coastal walks, and boat tours around the island. Because ferries can be cancelled due to strong winds or waves, keeping a buffer day before returning to the mainland is wise.

What is the best time of year to visit Ulleungdo?
Late spring to early autumn (roughly May–October) offers the most reliable ferry schedules and comfortable temperatures. Summer is lush and green but can be busy; autumn brings clear skies and great hiking conditions. Winter crossings are more likely to be cancelled because of rough seas.

Can I visit Ulleungdo as a day trip from Seoul?
In practice, no. Even the fastest Seoul–Gangneung–Ulleungdo route takes 5.5–7 hours one way, and ferry schedules rarely allow enough time on the island before returning. Treat Ulleungdo as at least an overnight or, ideally, a multi-night destination.

Do I need to book everything in advance?
In high season and on weekends, yes. Reserve train or bus seats, ferry tickets, and accommodation ahead of time. For trains, use Korail’s booking system; for ferries, check platforms such as Klook Ulleungdo experiences and confirm with Ulleung-gun’s official timetable.

Are there flights from Seoul to Ulleungdo?
As of now, Ulleungdo is only accessible by ferry. An island airport is under construction and is expected to open in the coming years, but until regular flights are operating, all visitors must travel by sea.