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▶ Dates: March 27 (Thu) – March 30 (Sun), 2025 *(subject to sea-tide timing)*
▶ Location: Hoedong-ri, Gogun-myeon, Jindo-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea
▶ Highlights: Sea-parting walk, traditional parades, folklore performances, seafood markets
▶ Official Website: jindo.go.kr
The Jindo Sea-Parting Festival is one of Korea’s most awe-inspiring natural and cultural events, centered around a rare tidal phenomenon that creates a temporary land path between two islands. Often referred to as the "Korean version of Moses’ miracle," the sea between Jindo Island and Modo Island parts for approximately one hour, revealing a 2.8-kilometer-long path through the ocean. Every spring, thousands of visitors gather in Jindo to witness and walk this miraculous path barefoot. The festival not only showcases this natural event but also highlights Jeollanam-do’s rich traditions, folk legends, and coastal lifestyle. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends science, legend, and local hospitality into an unforgettable spring adventure.
Sea-Parting Phenomenon & Activities: Walking Through the Ocean
The main attraction of the festival is the moment when the sea visibly parts, allowing festival-goers to walk across the ocean floor from Jindo to Modo Island. This rare event happens due to tidal forces that occur only a few times each year, typically in late March to April. Festival organizers publish the exact times down to the minute based on tide predictions, and visitors gather hours in advance to prepare. Participants are given rain boots or go barefoot, holding colorful flags and wearing traditional red scarves—symbolizing the legendary “Grandmother Bbong,” who is central to the local folklore. During the walk, the seabed reveals shells, seaweed, and tidal creatures, and volunteers guide the crowd safely across and back before the tide returns. In addition to the walk itself, visitors can enjoy activities like clam digging, tide pool exploration, and ocean photo zones. For many, this event is a symbolic journey of connection, faith, and wonder that ties them to nature in the most literal way possible.
Traditions, Performances & Local Flavor: More Than Just the Sea
Beyond the tidal miracle, the Jindo Sea-Parting Festival is a rich celebration of regional culture. Folk music and dance performances, including Jindo Arirang and shamanistic rituals, fill the festival stage with sound and history. There are parades of villagers reenacting the “Miracle of the Sea” legend in vibrant costumes, as well as flash mobs and modern fusion shows. Cultural experience booths offer traditional crafts, hanbok photo ops, and sea salt soap workshops. For foodies, the local seafood market serves up freshly caught octopus, grilled fish, and local specialties like Jindo black pork. You can also try "seaweed rice balls" and abalone porridge—comforting, salty, and unforgettable. The surrounding area offers scenic coastal walks and views of the archipelago, making it perfect for photographers and eco-tourists alike. The festival warmly welcomes foreign visitors, with English-language signage, volunteer interpreters, and guided group tours available.
Summary & Travel Tips
The Jindo Sea-Parting Festival is a rare mix of natural science, living folklore, and joyful celebration. It's best to plan your trip around the official tide schedule, which is published each year on the official website. The nearest major city is Mokpo, from where shuttle buses are typically available during the event. Dress comfortably for walking through water—bring waterproof bags and a change of socks or pants. Many accommodations offer "festival packages" including transportation and meals. If you're looking for a festival that’s truly unlike anything else in the world, make Jindo your next spring destination.