Namhaedo Island

Namhae Island (Namhaedo) is the principal island of Namhae County in South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, and serves as the county’s administrative and tourism centre.

Traditionally a fishing and farming area, the island’s road and bridge connections were developed in the 20th century, which increased accessibility and tourism-led development.

Namhae sits off the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula within South Gyeongsang Province and is reachable by road bridges from the mainland; the nearest major city on the mainland is Busan to the northeast.

• Access: The island is connected to the mainland by bridges, making it accessible by road from the South Gyeongsang mainland.
• Character: Known for scenic coastal roads, terraced farmland and several small beach villages that attract domestic tourism.

Namhaedo is connected to the mainland by the Namhae Bridge and several causeways. From Busan or Jinju take intercity buses to Namhae (Namhae Bus Terminal), or drive via National Route 19 across Namhae Bridge. Local buses and taxis service the principal villages and attractions on the island.

• Drive across the Namhae Bridge on a clear day for one of the most cinematic approaches to the island.
• Visit the German Village early morning - it's a curious, photogenic quirky enclave with souvenir shops and local cafés.
• Explore coastal walking paths around the island's southern tips; they offer dramatic cliffs and small fishing hamlets most visitors miss.