Is Jeju overhyped? We went there, and no – it absolutely isn’t

It’s even more expansive and breathtaking in real life than the shows portray

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The mystical fairy garden at Mystic 3 Cafe in Jeju city. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG
Seongsan Ilchulbong is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG
Aim for a prized sunset shot at Sueweolbong Peak. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG
Chewy abalone slices are the perfect counterpoint to creamy porridge. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG
Decadent seafood ramyeon is filled with a whole crab, mussels, abalone and small octopus. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG
Platter of superfresh sashimi at specialty restaurants like Donghae Mirak. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG
Cold raw fish soup is a coastal favourite in Jeju. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG
The writer in a colourful tangerine orchard that invites you to pick your own fruit. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG
Refreshing tangerine latte at Tangerine Cafe. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG
Don't miss Jeju's famous 'black pork' served at local barbecue restaurants. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG
An eye-popping pastry display at Seogwipean Cafe. PHOTO: MICHAEL CHIANG

DeeperDive is a beta AI feature. Refer to full articles for the facts.

Michael Chiang

Published Thu, Feb 2, 2023 · 06:00 PM

HYPE and hyperbole can often do a destination a disservice, raising expectations with seductive images that overpromise but under-deliver.

So it is not surprising if one heads to Jeju with some trepidation. Can the charm and beauty of South Korea’s fabled island paradise live up to our Netflix-ed expectations? Have countless Korean dramas and reality shows blown things out of proportion?

The fears are unfounded. Jeju is actually more expansive and breathtaking in real life.

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