Boating Licenses in Korea

I just wanted to share some information regarding boating licenses in Korea. The Korean rules for operating motor/leisure boats in Korea are somewhat strict compared to other countries.

If you are operating a boat that has a 4hp motor or below then you are not required to have a license. However, for anyone wanting to operate a boat with a motor of 5hp and above in Korea (Koreans and foreigners alike) a license is required.

There are 3 levels of license;
Number 1
Number 2
Yacht

The good news is that foreingers in Korea can take and complete the Korean boating license tests. There is a 50 question written test in English or Korean which is a multiple choice type exam. Once you have passed the written test you can take the practical "on-the-water" test. The practical test only takes aproximately 10~15 minutes to complete and it's fairly simple if you have had some past boating experience. I just took this test this week and the examiners spoke rather good English and allowed me to speak only English throughout the exam.

If anyone needs more information about Korean boat licenses for non-Koreans, then post here and I'll help as best as I can.


Steve 스티브
SureCatch Korea
Challenger Prostaff