Next to Jeju-do, Ulleung-do is probably the second-most-famous island in South Korea. Like its larger cousin, it was created due to volcanic activity. But unlike Jeju-do, Ulleung-do was a result of a violent volcanic eruption, resulting in extreme cliffs and high rocks. Most places where the land meets the ocean are high cliffs, but there is a village along the coastline on the slope of Seonginbong peak, the highest point on the island. On the north side, there are a couple of basins created from a collapsed crater, the Nari Basin and the Albong Basin. Mainly a fishing village, the island may possibly be the quietest place in South Korea on a dark, off-season evening.

Sightseeing boats make regular 2- to 3-hour tours around the island, starting at Dodong Harbor. In most months the boat leaves at 9am, with a late-afternoon boat during good weather, and more frequent schedules during high tourist season in July and August. The tour costs W18,000 for adults and W9,000 for kids.

Boats to the island leave once a day (twice a day from the end of July to Aug) from Pohang Ferry Terminal (tel. 054/242-5111) or Mukho Ferry Terminal (tel. 054/531-5891). Most boats leave at 10am with a return trip from Ulleung Ferry Terminal (tel. 054/791-0831) around 4:30pm, but check weather conditions and confirm times with the Korea Travel Phone (tel. 1330) before setting out. Regular fares range from W45,000 to W55,000, with lower prices for children and teens and a slightly higher price for a "superior-grade" seat.

There is a tourist information center when you arrive at Dodong Harbor. Not all of the staff are fluent in English, but they will provide you with maps and bus time schedules (super-important since schedules are irregular and change often), and even make sleeping arrangements, should you wish to overnight on the island. Because it's so far away from the mainland, goods on the island tend to be more expensive. If you didn't bring enough won with you, you can exchange money at the Nonghyeop Bank in Dodong-li.