🦑 Catch Squid on a Remote Korean Island: 2026 Ulleungdo Squid Festival Complete Guide
The 24th Ulleungdo Squid Festival lands on a remote volcanic island in the East Sea (July 17–19, 2026) — bare-hand squid catching, a fishing boat boarding experience, and a live trot concert, all for FREE entry. 🎤
Here's the full guide: 3 ferry routes compared (from 56,500 KRW one-way), Dokdo Cruise tips, and what foreign visitors need to know before sailing to this hidden Korean gem. ✨
※ Ferry departure schedules and fares are subject to change based on weather and sea conditions. Always re-confirm with the ferry operator on the day of travel.
The 24th Ulleungdo Squid Festival (울릉도 오징어축제) is one of Korea's most unique island festivals, held at Jeodong Port (저동항) on Ulleungdo Island (울릉도) — a remote volcanic island in the East Sea (동해), about 3 hours by ferry from the Korean mainland. This year the festival moves from its traditional August slot to July 17 (Friday) through July 19 (Sunday), a strategic change by Ulleung County to boost off-peak summer tourism. The three-day program includes squid bare-hand catching, a squid fishing boat (오징어배) boarding experience, the Hwanguru Song Festival (황우루 가요제) honoring the late folk singer who composed the beloved song "Ulleungdo Twist," a special live concert by trot singer Song Ga-in (송가인), Daegu Philharmonic Wind Ensemble (대구관악합주단) performance, and nighttime stargazing under Ulleungdo's famously dark skies. Basic festival entry is free. Getting there requires a ferry, with one-way fares ranging from 56,500–73,000 KRW (approx. $42–$54 USD) depending on your departure port. The Korea Tourism Organization's English page on the Ulleungdo Squid Festival is available at english.visitkorea.or.kr. For more unique Korean cultural experiences, also explore the BTS Busan Temple Stay Korea 2026 guide.
VisitKorea: Ulleungdo Island Info
💡 Ferry booking tip: Book your Ulleungdo ferry directly on each operator's official website — Seaspovill (seaspovill.co.kr) for Mukho/Gangneung routes, and Ulleung Cruise (ulcruise.co.kr) or Daejeo Ferry (daezer.com) for Pohang routes. Peak July seats sell out fast!
Ulleungdo Island is accessible only by ferry. The major ferry operators are Seaspovill (씨스포빌, seaspovill.co.kr) departing from Mukho Port (묵호항, Donghae City, Gangwon Province) and Gangneung Port (강릉항), and Ulleung Cruise (울릉크루즈, ulcruise.co.kr) and Daejeo Ferry (대저페리, daezer.com) departing from Pohang (포항). One-way fares start at approximately 56,500 KRW ($42 USD) for a standard economy seat from Mukho. July is peak season — ferry seats for festival weekend departures (July 16–17) are likely to sell out weeks in advance. Book directly through each operator's website for the lowest price with no booking fees.📊 2026 Ulleungdo Squid Festival: Quick Overview
Squid catching + Song Ga-in concert + Dokdo Cruise — a truly one-of-a-kind island adventure!
The 24th Ulleungdo Squid Festival packs 3 days of hands-on programs and live music into Korea's most remote and scenic island setting.
Dates: Friday, July 17 – Sunday, July 19, 2026 (3 days)
Venue: Jeodong Port (저동항) area, Ulleungdo Island, North Gyeongsang Province
Entry: Basic festival entry FREE (some experience programs may have fees)
Ferry: Seaspovill (Mukho/Gangneung) or Ulleung Cruise/Daejeo Ferry (Pohang) — one-way from 56,500 KRW (~$42 USD)
Book ferry seats ASAP — July peak season sells out weeks in advance!
Ulleungdo Squid Festival 2026: Key Info
Friday, July 17 – Sunday, July 19, 2026
Jeodong Port area: squid bare-hand catching, fishing boat boarding, Hwanguru Song Festival, Song Ga-in special concert, stargazing. Ferry one-way 56,500–73,000 KRW. Dokdo Cruise separately booked on-island. Plan a minimum 2-night stay — Ulleungdo is impossible to visit as a day trip!
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1. About the 24th Ulleungdo Squid Festival
Festival Overview and the July Change
Ulleungdo (울릉도) is a remote volcanic island in the East Sea, approximately 87 km off Korea's east coast. It is one of the least visited and most spectacular natural destinations in all of Korea — known for dramatic sea cliffs, pristine forests, crystal-clear waters, and some of the freshest squid in the world. The Ulleungdo Squid Festival has been held annually for 24 years, celebrating the island's most famous product: the Ulleungdo squid (오징어), caught using traditional lantern-lit fishing boats at night. In 2026, the festival moved from its traditional August dates to July 17–19, a strategic shift to boost tourism in the relatively quieter July period and spread out visitor load. The Hwanguru Song Festival (황우루 가요제) within the festival honors the late composer Hwanguru (황우루), who wrote the iconic Korean folk song "Ulleungdo Twist" — a song that has become synonymous with Ulleungdo Island.
Four Main Programs
The 2026 festival packs four core experiences into three days. The Squid Boat Boarding Experience (오징어배 승선체험) lets visitors ride an actual squid fishing vessel on the East Sea — a rare and thrilling hands-on encounter with Korea's traditional fishing culture. Pre-registration is required and spots fill quickly. The Squid Bare-Hand Catching (오징어 맨손잡기) is a fun and accessible activity for all ages — no experience necessary. The Hwanguru Song Festival (황우루 가요제) celebrates local musical heritage with performances by regional artists. Finally, the Stargazing Program (별 관찰) is a magical after-dark experience made possible by Ulleungdo's near-zero light pollution — on a clear night, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye.
Song Ga-in Special Concert
Headlining the 2026 Ulleungdo Squid Festival is Song Ga-in (송가인), one of Korea's most beloved trot (트로트) singers who rose to national fame after winning a major trot competition in 2019. Trot is a traditional Korean pop genre with roots in the early 20th century — think heartfelt ballads with a characteristic rhythmic bounce. Watching Song Ga-in perform in the lantern-lit atmosphere of Ulleungdo's Jeodong Port is an experience that blends Korea's cultural heritage with its natural beauty in a truly unforgettable way. The Daegu Philharmonic Wind Ensemble (대구관악합주단) also performs, providing a classical music contrast to the trot stage. Check the official Ulleung County announcement channels for exact concert times and dates within the three-day festival. VisitKorea Ulleungdo Island Guide
💡 Accommodation alert: Ulleungdo has a very limited number of hotels and guesthouses. During the July festival period, rooms at Jeodong Port and Dodong Port (도동항) fill up months in advance. Book immediately on Agoda or Booking.com!
2. Ferry Comparison: 3 Routes to Ulleungdo
Mukho Port (묵호항) — Seaspovill Seastar 1
Mukho Port in Donghae City (동해시), Gangwon Province, is the closest mainland ferry terminal to Ulleungdo and the top choice for travelers from Seoul and the greater capital region. The Seaspovill Seastar 1 (씨스포빌 씨스타1호) takes approximately 2 hours 40 minutes to reach Dodong Port (도동항) on Ulleungdo. One-way adult fares for a standard economy seat run approximately 56,500–71,900 KRW (approx. $42–$53 USD). The typical morning departure from Mukho is around 8:30 AM. To reach Mukho Port from Seoul, take the KTX to Donghae Station (approx. 2.5 hours from Cheongnyangni Station), then take a local bus or taxi to Mukho Port (about 10 minutes). This entire Seoul-to-Ulleungdo route takes approximately 5.5–6 hours.
Gangneung Port (강릉항) — Seaspovill Seastar 5
Gangneung Port offers excellent connectivity for travelers using the KTX high-speed rail network. The KTX from Seoul Station to Gangneung Station takes approximately 2 hours. From Gangneung Station, Gangneung Port is about 10 minutes by taxi. The Seaspovill Seastar 5 (씨스포빌 씨스타5호) departs Gangneung at approximately noon and arrives at Jeodong Port (저동항) on Ulleungdo in about 3 hours. This is the most convenient route for festival visitors, as Jeodong Port is the actual festival venue. One-way adult economy fares run approximately 66,500–73,000 KRW (approx. $49–$54 USD). Arriving at Jeodong Port means stepping off the ferry directly into the festival area.
Pohang (포항) — Ulleung Cruise and Daejeo Ferry
For travelers based in Busan, Daegu, or North Gyeongsang Province, Pohang New Port (포항 영일만 신항) is the most convenient departure point. Two operators serve this route: Ulleung Cruise (울릉크루즈, ulcruise.co.kr) and Daejeo Ferry (대저페리, daezer.com). The crossing takes 3 to 3.5 hours. These are larger cruise-style vessels with cabin options ranging from standard economy to Royal Suite (2-person, 860,000 KRW). From Pohang Station (KTX accessible from Seoul in about 2 hours), a shuttle bus runs to the Pohang ferry terminal. For pricing and schedules, check each operator's official site directly — fares vary by cabin class and season.
3. Dokdo Cruise: How to Book in 4 Steps
Step 1: Check Dokdo Access Conditions
Dokdo (독도) is Korea's easternmost island territory, located about 87 km east of Ulleungdo. Access to Dokdo (specifically, stepping ashore on the island) depends entirely on weather and sea conditions on the day. Even with a booked cruise, landing on Dokdo is not guaranteed — if conditions prevent docking, the cruise operates as a scenic sailing-close tour instead. This is completely normal and still an extraordinary experience. Most foreign visitors who go on the Dokdo Cruise consider it one of the highlights of their Korea trip regardless of whether they land.
Step 2: Book the Dokdo Cruise
Dokdo cruises (Ulleungdo to Dokdo and back) can be booked online through Seaspovill's official website (seaspovill.co.kr). Alternatively, purchase at the Jeodong Port or Dodong Port ticket offices on Ulleungdo. During July, online advance booking is strongly recommended as on-site tickets sell out on clear-weather days. The round-trip fare is separate from your mainland-to-Ulleungdo ferry ticket — check current pricing at seaspovill.co.kr.
Step 3: Board and Enjoy the East Sea
If weather permits landing, you'll have approximately 20–30 minutes ashore on Dokdo — enough time for photos at the iconic lighthouse and coast. If landing is not possible, the cruise still brings you within close viewing distance. Either way, the East Sea scenery between Ulleungdo and Dokdo is spectacular. Bring motion sickness medication if you are sensitive — the open East Sea can be rough. A light jacket is recommended even in July as sea temperatures create cool breezes on deck.
Step 4: Return and Plan Your Mainland Ferry
After the Dokdo Cruise, return to Ulleungdo and make sure your outbound mainland ferry is booked for the correct date. Mainland ferries depart Ulleungdo on fixed schedules — weather cancellations can add an unplanned extra night on the island. A minimum of 2 nights 3 days is strongly recommended for an Ulleungdo trip that includes the festival and Dokdo cruise. Build in at least one extra day of flexibility for weather contingencies. Plan Your Ulleungdo Trip
💡 Package tours available: Klook and Trip.com list Ulleungdo 2-night 3-day package tours that bundle ferry tickets, accommodation, and local activities — ideal for first-time visitors who want a stress-free island experience!
4. Accommodation and Food on Ulleungdo
Jeodong Port (저동항): Fresh Squid Restaurants
The festival venue at Jeodong Port is surrounded by restaurants specializing in Ulleungdo's famous squid dishes: ojingeo-mulmulhoe (오징어물회, cold squid sashimi soup, 12,000–18,000 KRW), ojingeo-hoe (오징어회, raw squid), ojingeo-naejang-tang (오징어내장탕, spicy squid innard soup), and ojingeo-sundae (오징어순대, squid stuffed with rice and vegetables). The squid on Ulleungdo is notably fresher and more flavorful than anywhere on the Korean mainland — this is the single best place in Korea to eat squid in any form. Festival food stalls and pop-up vendors also operate throughout the three days.
Dodong Port (도동항): Guesthouses and Hotels
Dodong Port (도동항), Ulleungdo's main commercial harbor, has the widest selection of guesthouses and mid-range hotels. Rooms for two run approximately 50,000–100,000 KRW ($37–$74 USD) per night at local guesthouses. Search on Agoda or Booking.com for options. Dodong Port is accessible from Jeodong Port on foot (about 20 minutes uphill) or by island bus. Note: accommodation inventory on Ulleungdo is extremely limited. During the festival period, even guesthouses that are normally easy to book may be full months in advance.
Nari Basin (나리분지): Immersive Nature Stay
For the most immersive Ulleungdo experience, stay in the Nari Basin (나리분지) — the island's only flat inland area, surrounded by ancient forests and the slopes of Seonginbong Peak (성인봉). Small pensions and farmstays here offer an extraordinary off-the-grid atmosphere at 60,000–120,000 KRW per night for two. This area is the trailhead for the Seonginbong Peak hike — a popular day hike to Ulleungdo's highest point with panoramic East Sea views. A 2-night itinerary combining festival participation at Jeodong Port with a Nari Basin overnight and morning hike is a perfect Ulleungdo experience.
5. Ferry Comparison at a Glance
| Category | Seaspovill (Mukho/Gangneung) | Ulleung Cruise (Pohang) |
|---|---|---|
| One-way travel time | Mukho 2h40m / Gangneung 3h | Pohang 3h–3h30m |
| Economy fare (adult) | 56,500–73,000 KRW (~$42–$54) | Check ulcruise.co.kr |
| Departure port | Mukho (Donghae City), Gangneung | Pohang New Port |
| Arrival port | Dodong Port or Jeodong Port | Dodong Port |
| Best for | Seoul, Gangwon, capital region | Busan, Daegu, North Gyeongsang |
6. Tips for Foreign Visitors
Book Ferry Seats 1–2 Weeks in Advance
July is peak summer season in Korea, and Ulleungdo ferry seats fill up quickly. Seats for the July 16–17 outbound and July 19–20 return departures — the most popular dates for festival visitors — are particularly likely to sell out. Check Seaspovill (seaspovill.co.kr) for Mukho and Gangneung routes, and Ulleung Cruise (ulcruise.co.kr) for Pohang routes. Each operator has its own cancellation policy, so review the terms carefully before booking. International credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted on both websites.
Plan at Least 2 Nights on the Island
Ulleungdo cannot be done as a day trip — the ferry schedules simply don't allow it. A 2-night 3-day itinerary (arrive July 17, depart July 19 or 20) is the minimum needed to attend the full festival and have some time to explore the island. Add a third night if you want to attempt the Dokdo Cruise, as weather may cancel your first attempt. Most first-time visitors to Ulleungdo say they wish they had stayed longer — the island is that special.
Cash and Connectivity
Bring sufficient Korean Won (KRW) cash — some Ulleungdo restaurants and small vendors are cash-only. ATMs are available at Dodong Port and within the main settlement areas but may not support international cards. Download offline maps of Ulleungdo (Google Maps or MAPS.ME) before departing the mainland — mobile data can be unreliable in some areas of the island. Major credit cards are accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and ferry terminals.
Squid Boat Experience: Register Early
The squid boat boarding experience (오징어배 승선체험) is the most popular activity at the festival and spots are limited. Pre-registration details are announced through official Ulleung County channels — check the official announcement before arriving. On-site registration opens on the first day of the festival at Jeodong Port, and spots may fill within hours. Arriving early on July 17 specifically to secure a squid boat spot is strongly recommended.
Weather Contingency Planning
Ulleungdo's East Sea location makes it susceptible to rapid weather changes. Ferry departures are cancelled when wave heights exceed safe levels. Always check the weather forecast and confirm with your ferry operator on the day of departure — especially for the return trip. Build in at least one buffer day at the end of your itinerary. Cancellation compensation policies vary by operator. Check VisitKorea Ulleungdo Guide
💡 KTX to Gangneung tip: Book KTX tickets on Trip.com from Seoul to Gangneung (approx. 2 hours) to connect to the Gangneung ferry route. This is the fastest and most convenient route from Seoul to Ulleungdo!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is entry to the Ulleungdo Squid Festival free?
A. Yes — the basic festival at Jeodong Port is free to attend. The Song Ga-in special concert and Hwanguru Song Festival are free to watch. Some hands-on experience programs (such as the squid boat boarding) may have a participation fee. Check the official Ulleung County announcement for updated program fees.
Q2. Which ferry should I take to Ulleungdo?
A. If departing from Seoul or Gangwon Province, choose Seaspovill (seaspovill.co.kr) from Mukho Port (2h40m) or Gangneung Port (3h). The Gangneung route is especially convenient for festival visitors as it arrives at Jeodong Port — the festival site. If coming from Busan, Daegu, or North Gyeongsang, use Ulleung Cruise or Daejeo Ferry from Pohang (3–3.5h). Book directly on each operator's website to avoid fees.
Q3. Is a separate booking needed for the Dokdo Cruise?
A. Yes. The Dokdo Cruise (Ulleungdo to Dokdo and back) is a separate booking from your mainland-to-Ulleungdo ferry. Book online at seaspovill.co.kr or at the Jeodong/Dodong Port ticket office once on the island. Note that landing on Dokdo depends on weather — even with a booking, you may only view from the boat on rough days.
Q4. When was the Ulleungdo Squid Festival moved from August to July?
A. Starting in 2026 (the 24th edition), the festival was moved from August to July 17–19. This change was made by Ulleung County to attract visitors during the relatively quieter early summer period. Previous editions were held in August, so be careful to check the correct 2026 dates before booking your ferry.
More to Explore
Also happening in late July: the Boryeong Mud Festival on the west coast — compare two contrasting Korean summer festival experiences!
Book KTX or express bus tickets to Gangneung or Pohang to connect to your Ulleungdo ferry route.
Soo Blog
Curating Korea travel, events, and festival guides from official sources.
Compiled from verified official information for foreign visitors planning their Korea trip.
koreaeventmap.jhs29.com
Curating Korea travel, events, and festival guides from official sources.
Compiled from verified official information for foreign visitors planning their Korea trip.
koreaeventmap.jhs29.com
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