Exploring the Hidden Beauty of Mado Island
충청남도 태안군 근흥면 신진도리 산11
마도 해안절벽

Mado Island is a small yet striking island near Sinjindo in Taean, connected by a bridge but still holding the quiet charm of an island within an island.
Known for its rugged coastal cliffs and tranquil harbor, Mado offers a different perspective of Taean beyond well-known tourist spots.
This is a place where dramatic scenery, filming locations, and untouched nature come together for those seeking something less ordinary.
A Small Island Hidden Beside Sinjindo
There are many lesser-known islands scattered around Taean.
The place I visited this time is Mado, a small island located right next to Sinjindo.
Although it is now connected by a bridge and accessible by car, stepping further inside reveals an atmosphere that still feels distinctly island-like.
Mado has a circumference of only 0.3 kilometers.
Its shape resembles a galloping horse, which is why it was once called Masum or Malsum.
A Quiet Harbor and Island Scenery
In 1987, a cement road was built across the sea, connecting Sinjindo and Mado.
Crossing this road brings you directly to Mado’s small harbor.
Fishing boats are neatly anchored here, creating a calm and peaceful scene.
Even without heading straight to the famous cliffs, unique rock formations around the island already hint at Mado’s natural character.
Searching for the Mado Coastal Cliffs
Where exactly are the Mado coastal cliffs?
The scenery I had seen in photos felt close, yet always just around the corner.
The reason I came here was simple.
Mado’s coastal cliffs gained attention as filming locations for Squid Game and Jumping with Sunjae.
In the past, the cliffs were only about a ten-minute walk from the old Mado branch school.
Due to recent construction, however, reaching them now requires a short detour.
Finding the Entrance
After asking a local resident for directions, I finally found the entrance.
To my surprise, the same local was waiting there when I arrived.
We exchanged smiles and greetings before I continued on.
The entrance to the coastal cliffs is located at 270 Mado-gil, Geunheung-myeon, Taean-gun, Chungcheongnam-do.
Standing Before the Coastal Cliffs
After about a five-minute walk, the cliffs begin to appear.
The path shows clear signs of frequent visitors, making the climb manageable.
However, reaching the exact filming spot requires going a bit deeper into the rugged terrain.
A Sacred Ground for Backpackers
The Mado coastal cliffs are often called a sacred ground for backpackers.
Standing atop the dizzying cliffs, this is where famous scenes were filmed.
It makes you wonder how people first discovered such a dramatic location.
Facing the vast sea from the edge of the cliffs, I felt pure awe at the beauty of nature.
Why Mado Island Leaves a Lasting Impression
If you are looking for a different view of Taean, Mado Island is worth considering.
Despite its small size, the island offers powerful scenery and a quiet atmosphere.
The combination of dramatic cliffs, calm harbors, and cinematic landscapes creates an unforgettable experience.
Visitor Information
Location: 270 Mado-gil, Geunheung-myeon, Taean-gun, Chungcheongnam-do.
Admission fee: Free.
Special notes include its use as a filming location and its popularity among backpackers.
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