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Two-thousand-fourteen is on the horizon, and many Koreans are planning to ring in the New
Year at famous winter destinations on the peninsula.
Jeju island is among the hottest spots, but with thousands of tourists flocking to the
southern island every day, hotel rooms and airline seats are in short supply.
Paul Yi reports. It's the last week of the year and another wave of tourists has just
arrived at Jeju International Airport. They're part of the 25-thousand daily visitors
Jeju island has been receiving during the winter holiday season.
Jeju has become a hot destination for those looking to celebrate the end of the year at
one of Korea's leading vacation spots.
"This week, many climbers, hikers and leisure sports tourists are seeking out Mount Halla-san's
snowy landscapes. And many families are coming in this weekend as well."
However, if you're looking to book a last-minute trip to Jeju, you may want to plan carefully.
Hotels, condominiums, and other rental accommodations here are reporting that up to 80 percent of
their vacancies have already been booked. Rental car dealerships say bookings are limited,
with over half of their vehicles signed out.
But for those who are able to make the trek, the spectacular scenic views are sure to take
your breath away. The annual festival, held on top of Jeju's
famous Seongsan Ilchubong or "Sunrise Peak," is expected to draw in large crowds on New
Year's Eve.
"We're extending the festival this year by one day for a three day, two-night event.
We've established a variety of programs, including traditional weddings for foreigners, trips
to World Natural Heritage sites and others."
Whether you're visiting Jeju or in the capital city of Seoul, special events across the country
will be welcoming the first sunrise of 2014 with warm wishes and united cheers.
Sohn Jung-in, Arirang News