Igidae Coastal Walk

xiquinhosilva from Cacau · CC BY 2.0

A path over volcanic rock along the shore, facing the wall of Haeundae towers across the bay.

Igidae is about four kilometres of rocky shoreline that spent decades sealed off as a military zone, so when it reopened in 2001 it was still wild. The trail follows the waterline over cracked volcanic rock, sometimes on a boardwalk across a gully, sometimes up steps onto a headland. What sets it apart is the angle: to your left, surf on black rock; to your right, across the bay, the entire Haeundae skyline and the Gwangan bridge — nature and city in one frame. The name is tied to a legend of two courtesans who pulled an enemy general into the sea.

Visitor information

When is the best time to visit Igidae Coastal Walk?

April–June and September–November

How long do you need at Igidae Coastal Walk?

3 hours

What are the opening hours of Igidae Coastal Walk?

Open all day (best walked in daylight)

Did you know

About 4km of coastal trail over volcanic rock.
Formerly a closed military zone, reopened to the public in 2001.
It forms one stage of Busan's Galmaetgil trail network.
The name is linked to a legend from the Imjin War.

Travel tips

Walk from the Oryukdo end towards Gwangalli so you finish where the restaurants are.
Lots of steps and slick rock — not for pushchairs or smooth soles.
Carry water; there is almost nothing to buy along the way.

Source: https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/

Updated: 2026-08-05