Safety Concerns on Jeju Island Prompt Tourists to Rethink Their Trips

The string of recent deaths began on August 23 when an angler discovered the body of a man in his 70s floating near Jeju’s eastern coast. The man had been reported missing the day before, on August 22. On August 22, the body of a 60‑year‑old man was also found in the island’s northeast; he had been reported missing on July 2 and his case file had been closed prematurely.

Two days later, on August 24, police found the body of 37‑year‑old Jang Mi‑ran at a palm farm near her home. She had been missing since May. An officer had closed her case early, violating standard procedure; the same officer, who had handled 298 missing‑person reports, was suspended on August 11.

The Korean National Police Agency has opened an investigation into possible procedural misconduct in the Jeju missing‑person cases.

The discoveries have sparked concern among travelers. Kang, a 29‑year‑old who usually vacations alone in Jeju, said she will cancel her trip this year, fearing it is unsafe for a woman traveling alone. On social media, many users say they are reconsidering or may cancel bookings, citing safety worries.

The tourism impact is already visible. The Jeju Tourism Organization reports that July saw 963,000 domestic visitors, a 12 % drop compared with the same month last year. In August, the island’s daily arrivals have averaged about 35,200, also lower than the previous year.

Officials warn that the growing anxiety could further strain Jeju’s economic recovery, which already faces a downturn.

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