Marado is the southernmost island of Korea. It sits 11㎞ south of the Moseulpo port in Jejudo. The closest island to Marado is Gapado, 5.5㎞ away. It is only 0.3㎢ in size and is inhabited by only 137 people, as of 2015.
Marado stretches from south to north in an oval shape. The entire island is a vast grassland on gentle slopes. Its coasts consist mostly of black basalt rocks and cliffs. Along its coastline, there are sea caves, shaped by the waves. On Marado, land plants are rare, but marine plants are abundant, including 72 species of algae, including green, brown, and red algae. In recognition of its pristine natural features and species-rich marine ecosystem, the entirety of Marado was designated as a Korean natural monument in 2000.
At the southern end of Marado, there is a stone monument with the engraved text of “the southern end of Korea.” On the highest point of Marado is the Marado Lighthouse. This lighthouse was built in 1915 by Japan for military purposes. Now, it serves as a guide for sailors, passing the area at night.