Tiger Island

Tiger Island (범섬) is an advanced dive destination off the southern coast of Jeju Island, South Korea, where a dramatic volcanic formation plunges to 40 metres beneath the surface of the East China Sea. Named for its tiger-striped volcanic rock layers visible above the waterline, this site delivers powerful diving experiences in one of Korea's most biodiverse marine environments. The underwater topography at Tiger Island is characterised by massive basalt walls and boulder fields created by ancient volcanic activity. The walls drop steeply from the surface, with horizontal ledges and overhangs creating multi-layered habitats at various depths. Deep crevices cut into the rock face, some extending several metres into the wall, providing shelter for larger marine species and creating exciting exploration opportunities for experienced divers. Jeju's volcanic geology has created a substrate that supports extraordinary soft coral growth. The walls of Tiger Island are draped in Dendronephthya soft corals that bloom in vivid reds, oranges, and pinks, particularly during the cooler months when nutrient levels peak. This soft coral coverage is considered among the finest in Korean waters, drawing underwater photographers from across Asia. The site's exposure to strong currents brings both challenges and rewards. Tidal currents can be substantial, requiring careful dive planning and surface marker buoy deployment. However, these currents also attract impressive schools of pelagic fish, including yellowtail, mackerel, and seasonal visitors from warmer waters carried north by the Kuroshio Current. The boulder fields at the base of the walls harbour octopuses, lobsters, and various species of rockfish that are prized in Korean cuisine. Water temperatures range from a chilly 12 degrees Celsius in winter to a pleasant 25 degrees in late summer. Most divers visit between June and October when conditions are warmest, though the soft coral displays peak in the cooler months of March to May. Tiger Island represents Korean diving at its most dramatic and is considered a must-dive site for anyone exploring Jeju's underwater world.