Ulleungdo Struggles With Declining Tourism And Ship Route Disruptions

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Ulleungdo, a picturesque island off the eastern coast of South Korea, is facing a troubling decline in tourism, causing distress among its residents. In recent years, tourist visits have seen a noticeable downturn, and the suspension of key passenger ship routes has only exacerbated the situation. As a result, some islanders have begun to protest, voicing their frustration over the worsening conditions and calling for immediate action from local and national authorities.

Protests Erupt Over Disruptions to Passenger Ship Routes

On September 6, a post titled The passenger ship issue must be normalized regardless of the reason appeared on the Ulleung County Office website, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Written by an anonymous resident, the post took aim at the local leadership, including the County Mayor of Ulleung, National Assembly members, and other elected officials, questioning their responsibility in the matter.

The post specifically highlighted the cancellation of several crucial maritime routes. The Hupo route, which connects Ulleungdo with the mainland via Hupo Port in Uljin, had already ceased operations due to financial troubles faced by its operator, H Marine. The Gangneung route, linking Ulleungdo with Gangneung Port in Gangwon Province, is also expected to end soon. Furthermore, the El Dorado Express, a prominent ferry operating between Pohang Passenger Terminal and Ulleungdo, has been temporarily out of service since April due to mechanical failures.

Frustration over the situation is widespread, with some residents expressing concern about the sustainability of island life. Such sentiments reflect the growing unease among the population as essential transportation options dwindle.

Ferries and Their Impact on Ulleungdo’s Economy

Passenger ferries are essential to the island’s economy and daily life. The El Dorado Express, which typically accommodated up to 970 passengers, has been replaced by the much smaller Sunrise ferry, with a capacity of just 442 passengers. This change has led to concerns over overcrowding and long waits, further discouraging tourists from visiting the island.

Meanwhile, the Sister 5 Ship, which runs between Gangneung Port and Ulleungdo, is also facing an uncertain future. The ship’s operational status is in jeopardy due to a dispute with Gangneung City over the renewal of its docking facility permit, further complicating the transportation challenges faced by the island.

Local Governments Seek Solutions to Maritime Challenges

In response to these issues, both the Ulleung County Council and Uljin County Council have come together to discuss potential solutions. A meeting held late last month addressed how to resolve the maritime transportation crisis, with Lee Sang-sik, chairman of the Ulleung County Council, emphasizing the importance of sustainable maritime transport for the residents of Ulleungdo.

Additionally, Bae Sang-yong, director of the Ulleung County Development Research Institute, proposed that the government reinstate certain policies, such as the passenger ship load rate, which was abolished following the Sewol Ferry disaster. By lowering the threshold for new route approvals and bolstering the competitiveness of existing operators, Bae hopes to revitalize the island’s transportation infrastructure.

The Financial Struggles of Ulleungdo’s Shipping Industry

Despite these efforts, the financial struggles of shipping companies operating in the region make it uncertain whether these measures will be enough to overcome the transportation woes. According to recent reports, tourist numbers to Ulleungdo have continued to decline, from 461,375 in 2022 to 380,522 in 2024. The situation has worsened in 2025, with only 209,006 visitors by July, representing a significant drop from the 231,325 tourists during the same period in 2024.

Tourism Decline Attributed to Various Factors

The decline in visitors can be attributed to several factors, with the post-COVID surge in overseas travel and the suspension of key passenger ship routes being the primary causes. However, many tourists cite the high prices on the island as a major deterrent. As Ulleungdo’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, the combination of fewer visitors and rising costs has placed significant pressure on local businesses.

Rising Living Costs and Controversies Over Prices

Another key factor in the island’s economic struggles is the soaring cost of living. Gasoline prices on Ulleungdo have surpassed 300 Korean won per liter, making it significantly more expensive than on the mainland. Rental car fees are more than double the prices on the mainland, further deterring potential tourists.

Moreover, allegations of overpricing have contributed to the island’s negative reputation. In July, a restaurant faced criticism after a YouTube channel exposed it for selling a 120g serving of pork belly for 15,000 Korean won, which many considered exorbitant. Similarly, a taxi driver was criticized after a video revealed him taking a passenger in the opposite direction and charging double the expected fare. Such incidents have added fuel to the growing discontent among both residents and tourists.

The Future of Ulleungdo’s Tourism and Local Economy

As Ulleungdo struggles to navigate these challenges, the future of its tourism and local economy remains uncertain. While there have been efforts by local authorities to address the issues surrounding maritime transportation, it remains to be seen whether these measures will be enough to reverse the downward trend in visitor numbers.

The island’s residents, many of whom rely on tourism for their livelihoods, are calling for urgent action to resolve the transportation disruptions and make Ulleungdo an attractive destination once again. Whether the island can overcome these difficulties and rebuild its reputation as a sought-after tourist spot depends largely on the swift resolution of these pressing issues.