Explore the top diving destinations in South Korea
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Korea, a land of rich history and culture, also offers a diverse underwater world that caters to divers of all levels. From the warm waters of Jumunjin to the volcanic underwater landscapes of Ulleungdo, and the biodiverse depths of Munseom Island, Korea is an ideal destination for a memorable diving experience.
Munseom Island
Located off the southern coast of Jeju Island, Munseom Island is renowned for its rich underwater biodiversity. The dive depths range from about 10 to 30 meters, making it suitable for both recreational and advanced divers. The site is known for its relatively accessible but varied underwater terrain, allowing divers of all skill levels to enjoy the experience and encounter a range of marine species native to Korean waters. Munseom Island is part of Seogwipo Marine National Park and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Divers can encounter a variety of subtropical species, including jobfish, amberjack, sea turtles, and over 60 species of coral.
Ulleungdo
Ulleungdo, located off Korea's eastern coast, is a volcanic island featuring dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and deep underwater caves. The diving depths in Ulleungdo range from 13 to 15 meters, offering a balance of excitement and safety. The Elephant Rock (Gwaneumdo) area is a popular dive spot with submerged caves and tunnels that extend through volcanic rock formations. The best time to visit Ulleungdo for diving is late July to mid-August, after the monsoon season but before the autumn typhoons arrive.
Jumunjin
Situated on the east coast, Jumunjin offers coastal diving with the possibility to explore rocky reefs and abundant marine biodiversity characteristic of the East Sea. The waters in Jumunjin range from 10 to 26 meters in depth, catering to both beginners and experienced divers. Shin Ji-hoo, a regular diver at the Stella site, recommends diving in Jumunjin in the morning for better visibility.
For those based in or visiting Seoul, Jumunjin in Gangwon Province is an accessible diving spot. Many diving schools in Korea provide all necessary equipment and employ expert instructors. The wreck of the Stella, intentionally sunk in 2020 to create an artificial reef, is a popular diving site in Jumunjin. The sunken Stella is inhabited by a variety of marine life, including small fish like gobies and large species like rock bream.
Beyond these, Jeju Island near Munseom is culturally rich with the tradition of the Haenyeo (woman divers) known for their breath-hold diving skills. Diving here offers a combination of cultural and marine experiences.
In summary, Korea offers a mixture of accessible dive depths and interesting underwater features, making it a well-rounded destination for divers at any level. The best time to dive in Munseom Island is in September and October, when the waters are warm and visibility is at its peak. Divers in Ulleungdo can enjoy the unique volcanic underwater landscapes, while those in Jumunjin can explore the rocky reefs and abundant marine biodiversity characteristic of the East Sea. Many diving locations in Korea offer internationally recognized diving certifications through courses. There are numerous diving schools across Korea offering single-day dives and full certification courses.
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the diverse underwater world of Korea, where recreational and advanced divers can explore the rich biodiversity of Munseom Island, the unique volcanic landscapes of Ulleungdo, and the rocky reefs and abundant marine life of Jumunjin. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Korea offers a well-rounded diving experience for sports enthusiasts.
