Jeju Island, South Korea, has been recognized as a must-visit destination for travelers in 2026, earning a spot on Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel” list. The selection highlights the island’s growing prominence as a global tourism hotspot, celebrated for its natural beauty and unique cultural experiences.
The island province of Jeju-Do was included among 25 destinations worldwide, alongside locations like Phuket, Thailand; Maine, USA; British Columbia, Canada; and Mexico City, Mexico, according to an announcement on the Lonely Planet official website. This recognition comes as Jeju Island seeks to expand its appeal to international tourists and enhance its tourism infrastructure.
Lonely Planet, a highly respected travel guide publisher, meticulously assesses destinations annually through a rigorous review process conducted by its team of experts. The company not only recommends destinations but also actively promotes travel by directly linking to booking options for related travel products.
The island’s appeal is vividly captured in a promotional video produced by Lonely Planet, which portrays Jeju as “Korea’s Hawaii.” The video showcases iconic landscapes, including the sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong peak, the snow-covered slopes of Hallasan mountain, the forests of Sanbangsan and Jeolmul Leisure Forest, and the emerald waters of Gimnyeong Beach. The video also features local traditions, such as haenyeo (female divers) and regional cuisine like seafood noodle soup and abalone porridge.
“This selection demonstrates that Jeju’s status is being recognized not only in Asia but worldwide,” stated a representative from Jeju Province. Officials indicated plans to leverage the “Jeju Four Seasons” policy – a reference to initiatives aimed at attracting high-end tourism – to further expand international visitor numbers and develop world-class tourism facilities.
Jeju’s Unique Appeal: A Blend of Nature and Culture
Jeju Island offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, as highlighted by Lonely Planet. These include hiking to the 1,947-meter summit of Hallasan, scuba diving in the waters off Seogwipo, exploring the 27 courses of the Olle Trails, and visiting smaller surrounding islands like Gapado. Beyond outdoor adventures, the island boasts cultural attractions such as the Arario Museum, showcasing contemporary art, and the Lee Jung-seop and Waljong Art Museum, dedicated to Korean painters.
The island’s culinary scene also receives praise, with Lonely Planet specifically mentioning the fresh seafood served at restaurants run by haenyeo and the regional delicacies available at Dongmun Market and Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market.
Growing Tourism and Regional Significance
The recognition from Lonely Planet comes at a time of increasing global interest in South Korean tourism. According to data from the Korea Tourism Organization, South Korea welcomed 11.24 million foreign visitors in 2023, a significant increase from the previous year. Jeju Island is a key destination within this growth, attracting a substantial portion of international travelers.
The island’s strategic location and unique ecosystem also contribute to its regional importance. Jeju is a volcanic island formed by Hallasan, a dormant volcano, and is designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. This designation underscores the island’s ecological significance and its commitment to environmental preservation.
What to Expect Next
Jeju Province is expected to capitalize on the Lonely Planet recognition by intensifying its marketing efforts and investing in infrastructure improvements. The focus will likely be on attracting a wider range of international visitors and enhancing the overall tourism experience. Further details regarding specific initiatives under the “Jeju Four Seasons” policy are anticipated in the coming months. The island’s success in attracting tourists will be a key indicator of its continued economic growth and its role as a leading destination in East Asia.
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