Ulleungdo, Volcanic island in North Gyeongsang, South Korea.
Ulleungdo is a volcanic island in North Gyeongsang province that rises 984 meters (3,228 feet) above sea level at its highest point. The entire island is ringed by steep rock walls and shows a rugged interior with narrow valleys and dense forest cover.
Archaeological finds confirm people lived on the island during the 1st millennium BC. Written records first mention the site in 512 within the Samguk Sagi chronicles.
Fishing communities here have developed techniques over centuries for harvesting abalone and squid from the cold waters surrounding the cliffs. These dishes still form an important part of local cuisine and appear in small harbor restaurants.
Ferry connections run from Pohang port to Dodong harbor and take several hours depending on weather patterns. Advance booking is advisable since crossings may cancel during rough seas.
Several whale species appear in the waters around the site, including the rare North Pacific right whale. Travelers occasionally spot minke whales in the coastal zones as well.
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