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Islands of Korea, Islands of the World “Bbeolbae” The basic technique involves stepping forward with one foot, similar to riding a bicycle. Island Story

Items of Island Residents
How to Ride a Bbeolbae – Techniques and Know-How

Traditional Mudflat
You push against the mud with your right leg while supporting your body
Boat of Jangdo Island, Boseong
with your left leg to move forward. Your upper body is stabilized with a rubber bucket,
and you maintain your balance by holding onto the center axis of the Bbeolbae.
Mudflat fishing using the Bbeolbae was designated a National Important
Fisheries Heritage in 2016, recognized for its role in preserving Korea’s
traditional fishing practices, promoting sustainability, and holding cultural
value as part of the nation’s heritage.

The Largest Cockle-Producing Area: Jangdo Island, Boseong
Beolgyo supplies about 70% of Korea’s cockles. Jangdo Island, located
southeast of Jangam-ri, Beolgyo-eup, is a designated Ramsar coastal
wetland conservation site, and its natural mudflats produce around 80% of
Beolgyo’s cockles.

On these soft, sinking mudflats, the Bbeolbae is the only means of
transportation. It is also locally known as “Neol” and “Neolbae.”
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Load items in the
front compartment.
Support and balance
your body using your
left leg.
Stabilize your upper body with a rubber bucket and
center your weight on the Bbeolbae.
Push through the mud using
your right leg.

Angled at about 15 degrees

Rope used to
pull the Bbeolbae
Knee support pad
Bar to prevent
warping or bending

Footrest

Wooden plank

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