Gwaneumdo (Yeonggamchu & Kelp Forest)관음도 (영감추·감태밭)

At a glance

Item	Details
Main depth	Shallow kelp 10 m, outer vertical wall 25–30 m
Terrain	Lush kelp beds transitioning to sheer volcanic rock drop-offs
Highlights	Dense kelp forests, black corals, greenlings, rockfish
Example conditions	Water temperature 16–24°C, visibility 12–25 m
Dive style	Multi-level boat dive

What makes it special

Located around the uninhabited island of Gwaneumdo, this site encompasses both the tranquil inner kelp shallows and the dramatic outer volcanic walls (known locally as Yeonggamchu).

The 10-meter shallows feature rolling kelp forests ideal for checkout dives, while the seaward walls drop to 30 meters where black corals and schooling fish congregate, accommodating divers of all experience levels.

Dive guide

• Plan your multi-level profile to start at the deep outer wall and finish in the shallow kelp garden.
• Keep gauges and hoses streamlined to avoid entangling in dense kelp fronds.
• Enjoy an extended, scenic safety stop above the undulating kelp canopy.