You’ve seen dreamlike beaches in Busan and wandered night markets in Seoul. But what if your next trip to Korea took you to an island where the only way to reach your bedroom is by climbing a rope, deer roam near cliffside roads, and a global superstar like BTS Jin shows up as a part-time innkeeper? Well, welcome to Ulleungdo — just as serene as ever, but with a delicious twist, once it turned into Netflix “Kian84’s Bizarre B&B” filming locations. Join us as we unravel new experiences on this amazing island because this is your guide to trace the steps of BTS Jin in Ulleungdo like never before.
Ulleungdo is Having a Moment Again, Thanks to BTS Jin
Long praised as one of Korea’s most untouched and naturally stunning islands, Ulleungdo has always attracted a quiet kind of traveler. The kind who prefers sea cliffs to selfies, and wind over Wi-Fi. But now, it’s buzzing for a whole new reason.
After it turned into the filming locations of Netflix variety show “Kian84’s Bizarre B&B” (대환장기안장), this once-remote island has entered pop culture in the most unexpected way. In this offbeat healing show, BTS Jin, comic artist Kian84, and comedian Ji Ye Eun run an Ulleungdo DIY B&B unlike anything you’ve seen on Korean TV.
This show is nothing like those ordinary travel or variety series. With BTS Jin at its spearhead, the show actually invites you to confront absurdity in nature. And it turns out that’s exactly what makes Ulleungdo irresistible right now.
All The Filming Locations of “Kian84’s Bizarre B&B”
Now, first things first. Let’s start with all the exciting filming locations they used for “Kian84’s Bizarre B&B.” These are the places that BTS Jin had reportedly visited in Ulleungdo. And of course, you can also trace his journey back if you want to.
1. Jukdo Island (죽도)
Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Ulleungdo’s Dodong Port, Jukdo was featured during a free-diving scene. It’s crystal-clear, calm, and a local favorite for snorkeling. If you’ve ever wanted to float in waters so clean you see fish under your feet, this is your spot.
2. Hakpo Port (학포항)
You saw guests snorkel here, and for good reason. It’s beginner-friendly with a wide pebbled beach, shallow waters, and calm surf. Great for a relaxed dip or underwater GoPro adventure.
3. Jeodong Port (저동항)
This fishing spot was the backdrop for one guest’s emotional moment. You’ll find locals fishing off the breakwater every day, and if you’re lucky, you might reel in a rockfish or seabream. Or, like the show’s guest, you might just feel something shift inside you.
4. The Bizarre B&B Itself
Sadly, the actual B&B isn’t open for public stays—it was custom-built for the show, complete with rope ladders, cliffside sleeping pods, and floating bedrooms.
But if you venture through the Ulleung Coastal Road (울릉일주도로), you’ll recognize the show’s backdrop and maybe spot where that surreal property once stood.
Other Places Worth Visiting Nearby
Ulleungdo is far more than a filming location—it’s an ecosystem of cliffs, forests, and volcanic rock that feels preserved in time.
Cheonbu Underwater Observatory (천부해중전망대)
Step inside Korea’s only undersea viewing platform, with glass windows six meters below sea level. Watch fish swirl past your feet, and feel like you’re inside an aquarium—but real.
Bongnae Falls (봉래폭포)
Hike through cypress forests to reach a stunning 3-tier waterfall that feels like it belongs in a fantasy film. You’ll pass through natural “wind caves” that blow cold air—natural air conditioning from the mountain.
Dokdo Observatory Cable Car (독도전망대 케이블카)
This isn’t just a cable car—it’s your ride to panoramic views of the East Sea. On clear days, you’ll glimpse the edge of Dokdo Island. Come at sunset and you’ll understand why locals call this one of Ulleung’s “Eight Great Views.”
Channel BTS Jin and Visit Ulleungdo Today – How to Get There
You can’t fly here—Ulleungdo is sea-only. Here’s your step-by-step from Seoul:
- Take a KTX Train to Pohang Station (about 2.5 hours)
- Grab a taxi or bus to Pohang Ferry Terminal
- Catch a ferry to Ulleungdo’s Dodong Port (approx. 3.5 hours)
Pro tip: Check weather forecasts—ferry schedules can be delayed by wind or waves.
What to Eat in Ulleungdo
After all that nature, you’ll need fuel, and Ulleungdo’s seafood doesn’t mess around.
- Honghapbap (홍합밥): Steamed rice topped with plump local mussels, simple and clean.
- Haesintang (해신탕): A spicy seafood stew packed with abalone, sea cucumber, and clams.
- Yakso Bulgogi (약소불고기): Marinated local beef fed with mountain herbs—tender, earthy, unforgettable.
Final Tips Before You Visit Ulleungdo
Bring Enough Cash
Ulleungdo is refreshingly behind in some ways, including technology. While a few cafés and hotels accept cards, many smaller restaurants, fishing rentals, and markets still operate on a cash-only basis. ATMs are available on the island, but they may not always support foreign cards. It’s best to withdraw Korean won (KRW) in advance, especially if you plan on heading to smaller villages like Cheonbu or Taeha.
Pack Smart for Island Weather
Ulleungdo’s weather changes quickly. A sunny morning can turn foggy by noon, and coastal winds pick up even in early summer. Bring a windbreaker, a lightweight rain jacket, and sturdy walking shoes—yes, even in June. Also, don’t forget sunblock and a hat. The UV index here can be surprisingly high because of the island’s open skies and sea reflection.
Book Your Stay Well in Advance
Thanks to the Netflix spotlight, Ulleungdo is now seeing more foot traffic, especially around weekends and holidays. Lodging ranges from small guesthouses to traditional minbaks, but the number of rooms is limited. Booking online platforms early (with flexible cancellation options) is essential. And if you want a room near the coast or with sea views? Reserve at least a month ahead.
Respect the Rhythm of the Locals
Life on Ulleungdo is slower, quieter, and deeply rooted in community. Many locals are fishers, farmers, or small business owners. You may not see the flashy hospitality of big cities, but you will feel the warmth of a place that genuinely cares about its land. A smile, a thank you in Korean (“감사합니다”), and patience go a long way here. Remember, you’re stepping into someone’s hometown, not just a variety show backdrop.
A Whole New Experience in Ulleungdo Thanks to “Kian84’s Bizarre B&B” Filming Locations
Finally, most variety show filming locations fade from memory fast. But Ulleungdo, especially as shown in “Kian84’s Bizarre B&B,” gives you something different. Not just a photo, but a shift in rhythm. A sense of slowing down, laughing at the unexpected, and breathing in air that hasn’t changed in decades.
So if you’re in South Korea and looking for more than a checklist of things to do—if you want a real moment of peace and wonder—then Ulleungdo is already waiting.
You just have to get on the boat.
Related Posts
176 total views, 24 views today
