Everything you need to know about scuba diving on Jeju Island, South Korea

There are many dive shops in the area but we opted for the highest rated one on Trip Advisor: All Blu Diving. Due to the high scoring reviews and many compliments on the dive master, ‘MJ’ we knew we’d be in safe hands. It also helped considerably that her English was very good so there was no concern over communication. 

All necessary diving equipment was included (except for a dive computer) for the price of 130,000 KRW (£85 GBP) for two dives. This included the ride to the dive site. You’ll be wearing a very thick wetsuit (or dry suit), boots and gloves due to the low water temperature and some even opt for a full hood.

When you’re all suited and booted, you’ll take a few minutes’ drive to the harbour where you’ll jump onto a fishing boat. Only a 5 minute boat ride from the harbour is Moon Island (also known as Munsom Island), a small rocky island which you’ll be entering the water from. This is quite unique in itself in that it is not a boat dive and there are no facilities. This is something to bear in mind as once you’re on that fishing boat, there are no facilities, toilets, lockers etc so it’s a good idea to bring as little with you as possible. 

Scuba diving on Jeju island is so unique due to its climate and volcanic nature. It benefits from the combination of both tropical and temperate climates resulting in a wonderful variety of volcanic rocks and kelp forests alongside tropical reef fish and colourful soft corals. 

The weather varies depending on the season, with possibly the best diving available in September and October. However, it is an all-year diving site with different things to see throughout the year. 

Rainy season spans June and July which results in stronger currents and lower visibility. We were there in the middle of June and the visibility was anywhere from 5-10 metres. The current was strong, stronger than anything we had experienced (unlike Koh Tao where you barely have to move your legs!) so it did take it out of you. There are ropes on the dive site to help guide you and ensure you can descend and ascend safely without damaging the coral. 

The water temperature can be quite low during certain months (at least compared to the likes of Thailand and Bali) and actually was a bit of a shock to the system upon entry to the water (I’m not going to lie, it definitely woke me up!). It varies from lows of around 12C in March (brrr) to around 17C in June with maximum highs of around 29C in August. 

In terms of what you’ll see, as I’ve touched on already, there is plenty, we just happen to not have many photos as we were busy battling the current! You’ll see a whole mixture of both temperate and tropical fish species along with volcanic rock walls, kelp forests and colourful soft coral. It’s possible to see everything from octopus, angelfish and boxfish to even the occasional dolphin if you’re really, really lucky! We unfortunately didn’t see a dolphin (well that would have made my day!) but it was still a really great experience full of variety.