Jeongbang Falls

A rare waterfall that pours straight from a cliff into the sea — this is Jeongbang Falls in Seogwipo.

Its 23m stream drops from a coastal cliff directly into the ocean; such "sea-plunging" waterfalls are rare enough to count on one hand across all of Asia. The result is a distinctive scene where the falls, the sea, and the waves all share one frame.

Renowned for its scenery since ancient times, legend holds that characters meaning "Seobul passed this way" were carved into the cliff — a tale tied to the very origin of the place name Seogwipo.

For Koreans, Jeongbang ranks with Cheonjiyeon and Cheonjeyeon as one of Jeju's three great waterfalls and is a staple stop on any Seogwipo trip.

Honestly, though, reaching the rocks below means descending steep stairs and climbing back up, which strains the knees, and the wet rocks are slippery, so watch your footing.

The rocks right in front, where spray meets waves, are the best viewing point, so go down in non-slip shoes, and pair it with the nearby Seobok Exhibition Hall and Sojeongbang Falls.

Hours are 09:00-17:30, open year-round, and there is an admission fee (please confirm before visiting).