Getting Around Jeju 2025
Navigate Jeju like a local with our transportation guide.
Jeju is South Korea's largest island province, located off the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula, renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and unique cultural heritage. Often called the 'Hawaii of Korea,' the island is home to Hallasan, South Korea's highest peak, UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites, and the legendary haenyeo female divers. With a subtropical climate and year-round appeal, Jeju blends natural wonders with modern resorts.
Transportation Overview
Quick comparison of transport options in Jeju.
Public Transit
Three types of buses serve Jeju: city buses (yellow, local routes), intercity buses (red, between major towns), and tourist shuttle buses. All use T-money cards with 2 free transfers within 40 minutes.
Taxis
Orange and silver taxis widely available; KakaoT app recommended for transparent metered fares. Global (international) taxis have English-speaking drivers and can be pre-booked.
Car Rental
Multiple rental companies at Jeju Airport including SK Rent-a-Car, Lotte Rent-a-Car, and international brands. Compact cars are most economical; SUVs available for groups.
Walking
Jeju City center and Seogwipo city center are walkable. Jeju Olle Trail provides 437km of pedestrian coastal routes connecting the entire island.
Getting There
How to arrive in Jeju.
✈️ By Air
Jeju International Airport
Jeju's sole international and domestic airport, one of South Korea's busiest airports handling routes to Seoul (Gimpo and Incheon), Busan, and some international flights to Japan and China. The airport has all standard facilities including car rental desks, banks, and tourist information.
Airport Transfer Options
Complete Transportation Guide
Route guides, fare information, and transport app recommendations.
Local Transportation
Getting around within Jeju.
Jeju's circular road system makes it straightforward to navigate by car. The main highway (1132) rings the island's coast, and 1100 Road crosses the island over Hallasan. Major attraction areas are well-signposted in English.
Rental car (recommended)
Intercity buses
Taxis
Bicycle on coastal routes
Guided tours for convenience
🚌 Buses
City buses run every 15-30 minutes on main routes; $1.20 per trip with T-money card; covers Jeju City, Seogwipo, and main attraction hubs
🛺 Local Alternatives
Rental car for full island exploration; KakaoT taxis for flexible movement; bicycle rentals at beaches and coastal areas; Jeju Olle Trail for non-motorized island circumnavigation
Intercity Travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Jeju City and Seogwipo are connected by express bus (40-50 min, $4) and local buses. From these hubs, buses fan out to major attraction areas. The eastern and western coasts require careful bus schedule planning or a rental car.
Long-Distance Buses
Express buses between Jeju City and Seogwipo from $4; journey 40-50 minutes via expressway
Shared Taxis/Minivans
Shared taxis not widely available; private taxis fill this role at higher cost
Domestic Flights
No domestic flights within Jeju — the island is small enough to drive across in under 1 hour
Private Car/Driver
Private car hire with driver from $80-150/day for full-island tours
Driving in Jeju
Information for self-driving travelers.
Recommended?
Yes
Driving Side
right
License Required
International Driving Permit (IDP) plus home country license required; US drivers can use their license with IDP
Road Conditions
Roads are well-maintained; mountain roads near Hallasan have sharp curves; coastal roads are scenic and straightforward
Driving Considerations
- Research local driving laws and road conditions before deciding to drive
- Consider hiring a driver instead - often affordable and less stressful
- Ensure comprehensive insurance if renting a vehicle
- Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas
- Keep copies of all documents (license, insurance, rental agreement)
Transportation Tips
Essential advice for getting around.
Get a T-money card at the airport immediately — accepted on all buses and at convenience stores
Rent a car on arrival for the best rates; book online in advance for peak season
Download KakaoT and set up an account before arriving — it's the reliable taxi booking app
Use the interactive Jeju bus app (Jeju-si Bus) for real-time bus tracking and schedules
The Jeju Ring Road (Route 1132) circumnavigates the entire island and is well-signposted
Park at major attractions early — popular sites like Seongsan fill up by 9-10 AM in peak season
Hallasan trailhead parking is free but extremely limited — consider taking a bus to the trailhead
1100 Road crossing Hallasan's spine is spectacular but can be icy in winter
Useful Apps
KakaoT
Korea's primary ride-sharing and taxi booking app with English language support
Naver Maps
Best navigation app for Korea including real-time traffic, bus routes, and walking directions
Kakao Maps
Alternative navigation with excellent public transport routing
Jeju-si Bus App
Real-time Jeju bus tracking and schedules (Korean language)
Navigate Jeju Like a Local
Get our complete transport guide with route planners, fare guides, and essential travel phrases.
Download Transport Guide