South Korea offers numerous diving opportunities on its rugged coasts. The ideal spots can be found along its eastern coastline where temperatures are at their warmest.
On this dive, you’ll see prehistoric human and animal skeletons preserved by the cave’s clear waters, along with unique stalagmites and stalactites that will blow your mind.
Chan Hol
An 82ft (25m) tunnel that winds its way through coral reef makes for an exciting dive site. Although relatively less demanding than its surroundings, entering this tunnel requires full cave certification from divers in order to enter. At first it accommodates two divers at once but soon narrows and only single file entry is possible – be aware of where your hands and feet land as contact with walls could cause abrasions to the walls in some spots!
Ambergris Caye divers regularly head here in search of marine life, and this site promises a diverse assortment. Reefs here teem with glassy sweepers and small schools of French grunts as well as several nudibranch species; additionally there are seagrass beds where larger pelagics like barracudas may be spotted.
Attractions to this site go well beyond its main attraction of an 82ft tunnel; other intriguing features await discovery as well. The walls of the tunnel are decorated with colorful anemones, while cracks provide hiding places for stonefish.
It is best suited to divers who hold full cave certification and it is advised to undertake at least one drysuit dive prior to visiting this location. Navigating through its winding tunnel requires concentration and focus in order to avoid running into obstructions; in the dark conditions this may prove challenging and it is essential that divers stay close with their partner at all times.
Gonzalez and her team of researchers are continuing to examine the remains, looking for clues to prehistoric life in Mexico. They hope to identify more skeletons so they can compare them with similar finds elsewhere; additionally they’re studying artifacts which give an idea of their daily lifestyles.
Yucatan is home to thousands of cenotes, but connecting them can be tricky without proper training and equipment. Luckily, there are numerous expert guides who are willing to assist visitors as they explore this mysterious landscape.
Baekryonggul
Jeju Island boasts numerous spectacular lava caves that are truly astounding, such as Yongcheongul Cave (White Dragon Cave) a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and Manjanggul Lava Tubes which contain many different kinds of fauna including sea slugs, crabs and fossils – not forgetting its stunning rocky cliffs adorned with seal and bird colonies along their shorelines!
Caves that are accessible only through caving organizations offer tours through them that include information on their history and culture as well as help for safe navigation through them. They will guide visitors on tours that show them the secrets hidden deep underground.
Caves have historically been used as shelters from extreme cold or heat conditions and wartime conflict; today however, tourists visit them for their recreational value and to experience nature at its best.
Cave diving requires special equipment and training. A durable suit of clothing must be worn, along with a helmet and light source; furthermore, you will require the services of a partner as high-level caves can be extremely hazardous environments that demand both experience and the correct gear in order to remain safe.
Baekryong Island boasts an astonishing biodiversity, from its remnant population of Spotted Seals to more than 350 bird species – many from China making the short sea crossing directly into Korea. Furthermore, there is also an endemic amphibian fauna and diverse rice field agriculture on the island – not forgetting its long history as an military outpost and flashpoint which remains an important strategic location today.
Many locals oppose the Bible Land project and have proposed alternatives, yet many are too intimidated to speak out publicly against their leaders due to fears of reprisals from government and military authorities as well as suspiciously of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). They also wish to avoid conflict with the United States, who control much of the island without consulting them first.
Seopgul
South Korea’s rocky coast boasts an array of marine life, from sea anemones and gorgonians to coral species that attract frogfish at many dive sites. There are various islands for exploring as well, with Jeju being among the most popular volcanic island destinations boasting beautiful waterfalls and beaches abounding.
Jeju Island’s crystal waters attract visitors from across the globe. Diving enthusiasts are drawn here for its rich biodiversity of marine life and numerous caves on its coastline – making this destination an essential stopover for divers looking for an exceptional diving experience.
Since hundreds of years, women on Jeju have made their living by harvesting seafood from the ocean floor. Local women known as haenyeo use no breathing equipment while diving up to 10 metres underwater with a round flotation device called a tewak and sharp tools called hoek in search of conch and abalone from beneath the waves. Hyung S Kim regularly visited Jeju between 2012 and 2014 to photograph haenyeo; often persuading divers to pose against plain white backdrops he would set up plain white backdrops before persuading divers to pose for his photos; now displayed at Korean Cultural Service of New York shows these photographs as testaments of these women’s dedication and hard work ethic.
Though some might be deterred by Korea’s cold waters, those who come prepared can experience an exciting adventure. Winter offers warmer and more stable waters which allows divers to witness similar marine life found in tropical seas. To remain safe and comfortable while diving here is key!
For safe diving in Korea, proper gear is necessary. We suggest having a dry suit or semi-dry suit, thermal undersuit, hood and gloves as essential items that will allow you to endure subarctic temperatures. Likewise, it’s crucial that divers familiarise themselves with local conditions before beginning their diving adventure.
Ilchulbong
Ilchulbong Peak, commonly referred to as Sunrise Peak on Jeju island, is one of the most impressive tuff cones. Boasting a preserved bowl-form crater and various inner structures created by sea cliffs, Ilchulbong is considered an archetypical example of hydrovolcanic tuff cone formation and was listed by UNESCO World Natural Heritage List in 2007.
This peak offers spectacular views of Jeju Island’s rugged coast and sea, making it a popular place for people to watch the sunrise. Hiking trails leading up to it are relatively short – you should arrive early so as to catch this incredible spectacle of nature! As well as watching it rise, tourists can also take photos or simply enjoy taking in its beauty.
Ilchulbong Peak should be on everyone’s itinerary when visiting Jeju, especially those interested in photography and diving. Scuba enthusiasts should bring along masks and snorkels for maximum enjoyment of underwater experience; wetsuits should also be worn to avoid discomfort while navigating this area is advised for divers. Finally, having maps and compasses available helps facilitate navigation around Jeju Island.
Tourists visiting the island can explore its volcanic landscapes and ancient stone statues, as well as admire its pristine beaches and waterfalls. Visitors should also make time for Manjanggul Cave – home to 70cm stalagmites as well as several rare animals such as bats – which features one of the longest lava tunnels ever.
Whoever wishes to gain more knowledge of the history and culture of Haenyeo Island should visit the Haenyeo Museum. Here they can observe women’s daily lives on Haenyeo as well as explore its culture.
Spring and autumn are ideal times for visiting South Korean caves, when temperatures are pleasant. At this time of year, the waters remain calm and clear, offering views of an abundance of marine life beneath the waves – an excellent time for scuba diving in South Korea!
