Maldo Island (말도)

Maldo Island is the westernmost inhabited island in the Gogunsan archipelago off Gunsan, Jeollabuk-do, set far enough out from the mainland that it sits well past the recently built bridge network connecting closer islands like Seonyudo and Munyeodo. Reach is by passenger ferry from Gunsan or via a connecting boat from Seonyudo. The island is small — about 1.7 km² with a small fishing-village settlement, a working lighthouse on the western tip, low pine-and-grass ridges, and a cluster of rocky coves with clear water. Tourism infrastructure is light: a few minbak guesthouses, simple seafood restaurants, and informal walking paths. The atmosphere is genuinely off the beaten path even within the Gogunsan archipelago — best for travelers who specifically want a quiet West Sea island stay rather than a quick day-trip stop.