Welcome to the thrilling world of underwater conservation! In our ongoing commitment to a cleaner, healthier marine environment, Healthy Seas embarked on a remarkable diving mission in South Korea, making waves in the beautiful landscapes of Gangwon, Namae, and beyond. Powered by our valued partnership with Hyundai Motor Company, this expedition marked a significant chapter in our mission to combat marine litter and transform waste into innovative treasures.
Imagine the crisp breeze of autumn in Gangwon and Namae provinces, setting the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary diving mission by Healthy Seas. With the invaluable support of Hyundai, our team of fourteen divers, a synergy of Healthy Seas and Ghost Diving Korea members, undertook not one but two cleanup missions. In these provinces, where marine life harmonizes with the rhythm of the tides, we successfully retrieved an impressive 425 kilograms of ghost nets and lost cages, sparking a series of regular clean-up initiatives.
Fast forward to November 11th and 12th of this year, and the spotlight shifted to the southern tip of South Korea – the vibrant harbor in Mijo-myeon, Namhae-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do. A region heavily frequented by both industrial and recreational fishers, this mission carried added significance as the threat to marine life, especially the diverse octopuses and squids, loomed large.
Beneath the surface, the underwater world thrived with diversity, but it also harbored the silent menace of ghost fishing gear. Discarded nets and cages posed not only a threat to marine life but also presented economic challenges for local fishers. Additionally, sea birds like herons faced potential danger, often mistaking the gear for food or nesting material.
Undaunted by the challenge, our team undertook four dives in three different teams, exploring small islands just 15 to 30 minutes away from the shore. In this underwater treasure hunt, we successfully recovered approximately 500 kilograms of ghost gear, comprising various artifacts such as octopus traps, gillnets, ropes, and even small lures used in octopus fishing.
Beyond the weight of the gear, the divers and our surface support team played a crucial role in releasing trapped marine creatures. From octopuses and starfish to crabs and hermit crabs, these resilient animals were given a second chance to thrive in South Korea’s South Sea.
This mission wasn’t just about cleaning up the ocean; it was a testament to the strength of partnerships. Hyundai’s unwavering global support played a pivotal role in turning our ocean conservation dreams into reality. Moreover, this South Korean expedition marked a historic moment as divers from Healthy Seas joined forces with Ghost Diving Korea for the first time, creating ripples of excitement and collaboration.
As we reflect on our mission in South Korea, we’re filled with pride and gratitude. With Hyundai by our side, we’ve expanded our network and intensified our commitment to healthier seas. The success of this cleanup is a testament to what can be achieved when passionate individuals, dedicated organizations, and committed corporate partners unite for a common cause. Together, we’re diving into action, leaving behind a legacy of cleaner oceans and thriving marine ecosystems.
