Uncover Korea's top diving destinations
Discover Korea's Best Diving Spots for a Memorable Underwater Adventure
Korea, known for its bustling cities and rich cultural heritage, also offers a hidden gem for adventure seekers – a diverse range of diving spots suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. Here's a guide to some of the best diving locations in Korea:
Munseom Island near Jeju is an ideal destination for both recreational beginners and advanced divers. The marine environment here is rich and diverse due to the variation in depth, ranging from 10 to 30 meters. Munseom Island is renowned for its rich underwater biodiversity within Seogwipo Marine National Park. Divers can encounter a range of subtropical species, including jobfish, amberjack, sea turtles, and over 60 species of coral. The best time to dive at Munseom Island is in September and October, when the waters are warm and visibility is at its peak.
Jeju Island is considered one of Korea's premier diving locations. It offers varied sites for all skill levels. While specific unique marine life is not explicitly named, Jeju’s waters are known for vibrant coral reefs and diverse fish species, contributing to its popularity. Reputable dive centers like MJ Jeju Diving Club and Doona Divers can be found on Jeju Island, making it easy for divers to explore the island's underwater wonders.
Another notable mention is Busan, which has well-established dive centers like Busan Seaworld Dive Center suitable for beginners learning to dive, with controlled pool training and nearby ocean dive options.
For those seeking a unique underwater experience, Ulleungdo, located off Korea's eastern coast, is a volcanic island featuring dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and deep underwater caves. The Elephant Rock (Gwaneumdo) area in Ulleungdo is a popular dive spot with submerged caves and tunnels that extend through volcanic rock formations. Ulleungdo's kelp forests and the marine life around it are especially captivating, with divers encountering schools of fish, sea urchins, and an impressive display of underwater flora. The best time to visit Ulleungdo for diving is late July to mid-August, after the monsoon season but before the autumn typhoons arrive.
It's worth noting that Ulleungdo is home to the sunken ship Stella, intentionally sunk in 2020 to create an artificial reef. Divers can explore both the stern and bow sections of the Stella, equipped with descent lines for easier access. The wreck of the Stella is full of marine life, including small fish like gobies and large species like rock bream.
For those who prefer a more educational experience, Aqua Planet Yeosu is a top marine attraction featuring vibrant marine life in large aquariums, offering an educational glimpse into Korea’s underwater species.
In summary, Korea offers a range of diving conditions catering to all levels, with rich marine biodiversity primarily around Jeju and Munseom waters. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Korea's diving spots promise an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Participants in the diving world can explore Korea's diverse sports scene, with many destinations providing rich underwater experiences. Among these, Munseom Island, Jeju Island, Busan, Ulleungdo, and even Aqua Planet Yeosu each hold unique attractions for divers of varying skill levels.
