Travel
Busan launches haenyeo-led snorkeling experience in Yeongdo
Haps Magazine Korea
August 4, 2026
(Illustration by Busan Tourism Organization/courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea)
Busan is launching a new marine tourism program that gives visitors the chance to explore the sea alongside working haenyeo (female divers) from Yeongdo.
The “Learning the Sea with Haenyeo” program will run from August 4 through September, with 20 sessions held at Gamji Beach in Yeongdo.
Participants will hear firsthand stories about Busan’s diving tradition before joining a guided snorkeling experience led by professional safety staff, offering an opportunity to observe local marine life.
The experience also includes a simple meal featuring gimbap and seafood ramen, highlighting local food alongside Busan’s coastal culture.
Designed to encourage weekday visits to the area, the program aims to support nearby restaurants, cafés, and tourism businesses. Sessions in August will primarily be held on weekdays before expanding to include Saturdays in September.
Each session lasts about three hours, beginning at 10:00 a.m., with 15 participants per session.
Anyone aged 10 or older can participate after completing a safety briefing. The participation fee is 30,000 won, which includes the cultural program, snorkeling equipment, safety instruction, and meal.
Advance reservations are required, with spaces filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration and the full program schedule are available through the Busan Marine Leisure Naver Smart Store at https://naver.me/IgMhyBEh.
The program is operated by Busan Metropolitan City and the Busan Tourism Organization as part of efforts to develop tourism experiences centered on Busan’s unique maritime heritage.