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Islands of Korea, Islands of the World Islands of Korea, Islands of the World Number of Methods to Ensure Mobility for Island Residents Island-Related 1. From “Doseo” to “Seom”: A Shift in Terminology ISLAND Scene

ISLAND Scene
Islands Without
Hot Topics
In December 2022, the term for “island” in official contexts changed from the
Guaranteed
Chinese-derived Doseo to the native Korean word Seom. This linguistic shift
Mobility Rights
reflects a broader recognition of the cultural and natural value of Korea’s
73 Islands
Land
Tunnels
Reclamation Bridges Undersea islands, symbolizing their growing importance in the national narrative.
2. Managing Unregistered Uninhabited Islands
Korea is home to 2,918 uninhabited islands, many of which remain
unregistered and unmanaged. A recent cross-department effort between the
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport and the Ministry of Oceans
Airports Ferries and Fisheries aims to register and manage these islands, ensuring their
preservation and proper utilization.

For island residents, mobility is one of the most crucial factors in improving
quality of life. Among the five main ways to overcome maritime barriers
and secure mobility rights, ferries remain the most practical solution. This is 3. Bridges: A Double-Edged Sword
because ferries can operate regardless of an island’s size or conditions and are
While bridges connecting islands to the mainland offer numerous benefits,
relatively cost-effective compared to other options.
such as improved living conditions, increased tourism, and enhanced goods
distribution, they also bring challenges. Population outflow, road congestion,
and environmental degradation are unintended consequences of increased
Vol.01 Vol.01 Mobility Rights Number of Population Living on Islands accessibility. Careful planning is essential to balance these benefits and
challenges.
: A Pressing Concern
819,928

Bridge Connections Passenger Ferries

88 Islands 207 Islands

Passenger Ferries Administrative Vessels
207 Islands 4 Islands

Other Methods Mobility Blind Spot

10 Islands 73 Islands
(Tidal Pathways Accessible
During Low Tide etc.,)

However, 73 islands are still in a mobility blind spot, leaving residents
without reliable transportation options.
Ensuring stable mobility is the first step in preventing island depopulation.
Recognizing its importance, the Korea Island Development Institute (KIDI)
prioritized mobility in its research, selecting “Public Ferry Service and
Transportation System Innovation” as its inaugural research project.

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