Lighthouse Description and History

(Text extracted from nomination form submitted by Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Republic of Korea, 2025)

1. Geographical Characteristics

Udo Lighthouse is located in Udo-myeon, Jeju City, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, Republic of Korea. Udo Island, on which the lighthouse stands, lies at the eastern extremity of Jeju Island. Its topography resembles a reclining cow, from which the name “Udo” (牛島, meaning “Cow Island”) is derived. Its coordinates are 33°29′35″N, 126°57′58″E.

Geographically, Udo Island lies at coordinates 33°30′N and 126°57′E, encompassing a total area of 6.18 km² and a coastline of approximately 17 kilometers.

The Island occupies a geopolitically strategic position along a key maritime route linking the East China Sea and the East Sea through the Jeju Strait.  Its location has long made it an important outpost for navigation and maritime exchange between the Korean Peninsula and the broader waters of East Asia.

In the early 20th century, Udo Island functioned as far more than a mere island along a shipping route; it became an important center for maritime trade, communication and naval operations. At that time, the waters of East Asia formed a vital nexus of international commerce and imperial military strategy, and Udo served as an critical aid to navigation ensuring the safety of ships along nearby routes.

The establishment of Udo Lighthouse was not only a measure to improve navigational safety but it also a formal recognition of Udo’s strategic maritime role within the broader East Asian order.

2. Architectural Characteristics

The former Udo light tower, completed in 1919, is a 6.9-meter-tall cylindrical brick structure designed to withstand Jeju’s strong winds and waves. Its plain white exterior conveys stability, while the semicircular-arched entrance provides restrained architectural elegance.

The entrance arch, featuring delicate moldings and a central keystone, incorporates Baroque-inspired detailing with subtle curves. Positioned beneath the arch, a small window facing the sea serves both functional and aesthetic purposes.

The tower’s upright vertical form is visually softened by the curvilinear entrance arch. At the top, the lantern was installed to house and protect the beacon, fulfilling its role as a lighthouse.

3. Technological Changes (Light Source, etc.)

1905: A temporary wooden beacon pole was erected and first lit in February using a kerosene lamp. The lamp, operated by a pressurized pump system, produced a steady white light visible up to 10 nautical miles.

1913: The beacon pole was officially designated as a lighthouse, and its light source was upgraded to an AGA-type gas lamp with a luminous range of 8 nautical miles.

1919: Completion of the brick light tower (former tower).

1959: Converted from an unmanned to a manned lighthouse.

1960: Introduction of an electric rotating beacon (DCB-24) and installation of an air siren as audible aid.

2003: Construction of the new light tower equipped with a domestically manufactured electric rotating light (KRB-750). The current light emits a white flash every 20 seconds, with a luminous range of 27 nautical miles. The audible system was upgraded to an electric horn, sounding a five-second signal every 45 seconds with an audibility of 1.5 miles.

2012: Installation of a radio beacon and operation of an AIS AtoN system.

2019: Establishment of the Main Center for the Aids to Navigation Management and Operation System, enabling remote monitoring and management.

4. Conclusion

For more than 120 years since the first beacon was lit in 1905, Udo Lighthouse has safeguarded maritime traffic across East Asia.

Strategically located at the junction of the East China Sea and the East Sea, the lighthouse on Udobong Peak is not only a critical aid to navigation but also a significant piece of marine heritage. Architecturally, it demonstrates the integration of natural and built forms, set against the volcanic landscape of Udo Island, which is designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark. The arched entrance and ornamental features enhance its cultural character while complementing its utilitarian function.

Technologically, Udo Lighthouse illustrates the progressive modernization of aids to navigation—from oil lamps and gas lamps to electric rotating beacons, radio signals, and digital AIS systems. These successive innovations trace the evolution of maritime safety technologies over the past century.

Today, Udo Lighthouse stands as a multifaceted heritage site: a guardian of maritime safety, a witness to the region’s historical transformations, and a cultural landmark of Jeju Island. Beyond its distinction as Jeju’s first lighthouse, it merits recognition as an important example of international lighthouse heritage.

Reason For Nomination

(Text extracted from nomination form submitted by Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Republic of Korea, 2025)

Intrinsic Heritage Interest of the Lighthouse

1. Natural and Geological Value

Udo Island, formed during the Quaternary Period of the Cenozoic Era, is a volcanic island characterized by white sandy beaches composed of red algal nodules, basalt cliffs, and a hydrovolcanic tuff cone known as Someori Oreum. The island is ecologically valuable, with clear waters and diverse marine life, and was designated as part of the UNESCO Global Geopark in 2010. Today, it is managed as an eco-friendly tourist destination with regulated visitor access.

2. Historical and Symbolic Value

Udo Lighthouse began as a temporary wooden beacon pole in 1905, installed by Japan shortly after the Russo-Japanese War. The structure, topped with a kerosene lamp, marked the strategic importance of Udo as a maritime outpost. In 1919, a brick light tower was built, serving reliably through the colonial era, Korea’s liberation, and the Korean War. It remained in operation until 2003, when the current modern lighthouse was completed.

Today, Udobong Peak hosts three structures:

the restored wooden beacon pole (2005),

the 1919 brick former light tower,

the 2003 modern lighthouse.

Together they provide a condensed record of the evolution of lighthouse technology and modern Korean history.

3. Landscape Value

The lighthouse stands on Udobong Peak, harmonizing with the volcanic landscape of basalt cliffs, open sea, and sky. The white exterior of the brick light tower contrasts with the natural surroundings, while the arched entrance and keystone detail add architectural distinction. The site exemplifies the integration of functional maritime infrastructure with the natural environment.

Conservation

The significance of Udo Lighthouse lies not only in the preservation of its original structures but also in its continuous adaptation to changing social needs. It represents a model case of cultural heritage management, integrating systematic conservation with sustainable use. The site reflects the historical development of lighthouse architecture and navigation technology, making it a distinguished example of lighthouse heritage.

Phase 1: Beacon Pole (1905–1919)

Constructed by Japan after the Russo-Japanese War as a wooden structure with a kerosene lamp.

Vulnerable to severe weather and short-lived.

Restored in 2005 by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, based on 1907 design drawings, to commemorate the lighthouse’s centennial.

Now serves as an educational resource highlighting the origin of Udo’s lighthouse history.

Phase 2: Former Light Tower (1919–2003)

Built of brick in 1919, retaining much of its original structure for over a century.

Endured the Japanese colonial period, Korea’s liberation, and the Korean War.

Modernized in the 1960s with functional upgrades, including an air siren and an electric rotating light (DCB-24).

Operated reliably until the completion of the new tower in 2003.

Phase 3: New Light Tower (2003–Present)

Constructed in 2003 with a Korean-made rotating beacon (KRB-750) and modern navigation systems.

Built next to the former tower, which was preserved rather than demolished.

Together with the restored beacon pole, the three structures provide a unique record of more than 120 years of lighthouse technology and design.

Significance:

The phased preservation approach, reinforced by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries’ 2003 maintenance project, established Udo Lighthouse as a multifunctional cultural asset. The site demonstrates how historical structures can be conserved while serving as educational and tourism resources. It stands as a model of sustainable cultural heritage management, balancing preservation with active public use.

Public Access and Education

Since 2003, Udo Lighthouse has expanded from its role as an aid to navigation to an educational and cultural facility. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries designated the site as a “Lighthouse Marine Cultural Space” to preserve its heritage while opening it to the public. This initiative integrates historical symbolism into a modern framework, transforming the lighthouse into a space for cultural learning and public engagement.

1. Lighthouse Marine Cultural Space

Established in December 2003 by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries.

Converted the new light tower into a year-round public facility (open 9:00–18:00).

A scenic trail was created linking Udobong Peak and Geommeolle Beach.

Attracts an average of 1.5 million visitors annually (2022–2024).

2. Cultural and Exhibition Facilities

Aids to Navigation PR Exhibition Room: Provides an overview of the lighthouse’s history and functions.

Lighthouse Park: Features 20 lighthouse models from Korea and abroad, accessible along a walking trail.

3. Education and Experience Programs

3D Experience Hall: Offers exhibitions and educational programs on marine conservation, aids to navigation, and marine culture.

Lighthouse Stamp Tour: Conducted with the National Lighthouse Museum, allowing visitors interactive participation through stamp collection.

Other Reasons Why the Nominated Lighthouse Would Promote World Lighthouse Heritage

Udo Lighthouse, Jeju’s first lighthouse, combines historical importance, natural beauty, and sustainable management. Its enduring role and cultural value make it a notable example of international lighthouse heritage, recognized by IALA with the “Lighthouse of the Year” award.

1. Significance

More than an aid to navigation, Udo Lighthouse represents a cultural heritage site that reflects Korea’s modern and contemporary history.

It symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of natural landscape and architectural heritage.

2. Values

Historical: Over 120 years of continuous operation, illustrating the technological and institutional evolution of lighthouse management.

Landscape: A landmark integrated into the volcanic terrain and coastal scenery of Udo Island, enhancing its cultural and visual identity.

Preservation & Sustainability: Functions as both an operational lighthouse and a cultural-educational venue, offering exhibitions, educational programs, and public access while maintaining structural integrity

Photos and Diagrams