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Source: National Geographic
When you think you’ve seen every natural wonder, South Korea’s Jindo Sea Parting Road offers an awe-inspiring surprise. This extraordinary phenomenon occurs only a few times each year, when the sea dramatically recedes to reveal a golden land bridge over 2.8 kilometres long.
The path connects Jindo Island to the smaller Modo Island, allowing visitors to literally walk across the ocean. Popularly called the “Miracle of Moses,” this event draws thousands of travellers, curious locals, and international tourists. Beyond its scientific marvel, the sea parting is steeped in cultural and spiritual meaning, inspired by a legendary tale of Bbyong, whose prayers to the sea god created the path.
It’s a breathtaking blend of nature, history, and living tradition.
South Korea’s Jindo sea parting: A once-in-a-year spectacle of nature and faith
Located in South Jeolla Province, Jindo is home to one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. During this event, the ocean temporarily recedes, uncovering a wide stretch of seabed that allows visitors to walk across to Modo Island.According to Korea Travel Post, this phenomenon occurs only a few times a year and lasts about an hour, creating what feels like a real-life Red Sea parting.
The site also carries deep cultural meaning, with a local legend about Bbyong, an elderly woman whose prayers to the sea god Yongwang are said to have caused the miraculous opening of the path so she could reunite with her family.Today, a bronze statue of Bbyong and her tiger stands on the Jindo shore, symbolising faith, perseverance, and the mystical bond between the sea and the people.
Science behind Jindo’s Sea parting
Though wrapped in folklore, the Jindo sea parting has a clear scientific explanation.
According to geoscientists, the phenomenon results from a perfect alignment of gravitational forces from the Earth, moon, and sun. During specific times of the year, multiple tidal harmonics peak together, creating an extreme low tide that pulls back the water of the Myeongnyang Strait and exposes the seabed, as stated in the Korea Travel Post.The resulting land bridge is stable enough to support thousands of visitors, but the timing is crucial—the tide returns quickly, so safety and punctuality are key to enjoying the experience.
South Korea’s Jindo Sea parting festival: Here’s what you can expect
The festival is more than just a natural spectacle—it is a celebration of Jindo’s culture and heritage.
- Walking the sea road – Thousands of visitors take off their shoes to walk barefoot across the sea path.
- Traditional performances – Enjoy Jindo Arirang folk songs, Ganggangsullae circle dance, and shamanic Ssitgimgut cleansing rituals.
- Modern entertainment – Expect live ssireum wrestling matches, Jindo dog exhibitions, and even EDM concerts under the night sky.
- Local cuisine – Feast on seafood delicacies like abalone, blue crab stews, ddeumbukguk (beef-seaweed soup), and hongju (red rice wine).
This unique blend of natural wonder and cultural festivity makes the Jindo Sea Parting one of South Korea’s most unforgettable experiences.
What is the best time to experience Jindo Miracle Sea Road
The best time to see this natural wonder is during the Jindo Miracle Sea Road Festival, held every spring. In 2025, the event ran from March 29 to April 1, coinciding with optimal tidal conditions.The festival takes place in Hoedong-ri (Gogun-myeon) and Modo-ri (Uisin-myeon) in Jindo County, located about 370 km south of Seoul. Visitors typically reach Jindo via express bus to the Jindo Bus Terminal, followed by a local bus or taxi to the festival site. For a more flexible experience, guided tours and car rentals are highly recommended.
Jindo’s Sea parting significance
Although South Korea has more than 20 known sea parting sites, Jindo’s version is considered the most dramatic and culturally significant.
Its combination of scale, scientific intrigue, folklore, and festival celebrations has earned it the global nickname of the “Korean Miracle of Moses” as reported by the Korea Travel Post.This event is not just a tourist attraction but a living tradition that unites science, spirituality, and community.Other attractions in JindoEven outside festival season, Jindo offers plenty to explore:
- Uldolmok – Historical site where Admiral Yi Sun-sin devised naval tactics.
- Namdo Traditional Art Museum – Showcasing Korea’s regional cultural heritage.
- Sebang Coastal Road – A scenic route perfect for sunset drives.
- Yeongdeungje Ritual – Seasonal ceremony honoring Bbyong and the Dragon King for safe seas and good harvests.
South Korea’s Jindo Sea parting festival: How to prepare for the experience
Preparation is essential, as the event is brief and popular:
- Arrive early – Ideally by 5 am. on festival days, as parking and walking space fill up quickly.
- Wear practical clothes – Quick-dry clothing and waterproof footwear (or simply go barefoot) are best.
- Pack essentials – A towel, extra clothes, sunscreen, and portable phone charger are must-haves.
- Stay safe – Pay attention to sirens and local guides, as the tide returns rapidly.
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