More of an island than a city, Geoje City lies just off the coast of Busan. It includes South Korea’s second largest island, Geoje, as well as the dramatic landscapes of Haegeumgang Island and picturesque Jisim-do, famed for its camellias.

Things to do

Visit the Geoje POW Camp that was built to detain captured North Koreans during the 1950s Korean War. Learn about the struggles and riots that took place here, then follow the trail that leads past the camp’s communication centre to the summit of Mount Gyeryongsan to find impressive views of Geoje.

Explore the historic Oksangeum Fortress Area that was built on Sujeong Mountain to defend the city against Japanese invasion. Visit the Silla-era Pyewang Fortress, which is the oldest remaining fortress in Geoje and features an imposing stone wall.

Want to learn about the shipbuilding industry in Geoje? Head to the Geoje Shipbuilding Marine Cultural Centre in Jisepo Village. There’s an impressive collection of historic artefacts and highly-detailed models that highlight Geoje’s long-established maritime traditions, as well as a Fishing Village Folk Museum.

Experience Geoje’s scenic beauty along the walking trail that leads to Mudong Waterfall, then admire the camellias in the mountainside garden of Gonggoji. A cruise beneath the soaring cliffs of Haegeumgang Island is a highlight of the archipelago, with most boat trips stopping at Oedo Island to visit the landscaped gardens of Botanica.

Getting around

Geoje City is connected to Busan by public buses, with the journey taking around 1.5 hours. There are regular buses connecting destinations across Geoje Island, while ferries and boat cruises access the surrounding islands.