Ulleungdo Island - Ulleungdo

Ulleungdo Island is one of those places that feels like it’s at the edge of the world, and diving here definitely reinforces that. The island itself is volcanic, all dramatic cliffs and ancient forests, and that ruggedness extends below the surface. We love the sheer basalt columns that drop straight down into the deep, forming incredible swim-throughs and overhangs. It’s a completely different vibe from your typical tropical reef. What you’ll see here isn’t about big pelagics, it’s about the surprising abundance in the nooks and crannies. We often find Japanese pinecone-fish tucked into crevices, their scales like tiny golden armour. Keep an eye out for the jewel anemones, they add splashes of vibrant colour against the dark rock. The smaller stuff really shines here – the fat-handed snapping shrimp are always busy, and the hitchhiker amphipods are endlessly fascinating to watch. Visibility can vary, but on a good day, when the sun penetrates the water, it illuminates the walls beautifully. This spot really suits divers who appreciate unique geology and finding beauty in the smaller, more unusual critters. We'd suggest going in late summer or early autumn for the most settled conditions.

Location

Ulleungdo, South Korea, East Asia

Coordinates

37.500000, 130.866700

Marine Protected Area: 울릉도 주변해역 해양보호구역