Trending on Social Media: Why 'Crabbing' Can Lead to Serious Accidents

Lastly, there is a trend on social media lately involving catching mud crabs, but could this lead to serious accidents if you are not careful?

Recently, in the seas off Jeju, there has been a surge in popularity for "haerujil"—a traditional method of gathering seafood by hand during low tide—specifically to catch mud crabs, which have gained a reputation for tasting similar to blue crabs.

However, because this activity typically takes place at night during low tide, there is a significant risk of becoming stranded if one loses track of the tide and the water rises rapidly.

Just this past weekend, on the night of July 4, two tourists in their 20s entered the waters off Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo, to catch mud crabs. As the tide came in and the water level rose sharply, they were forced to take refuge on a rock and call for help.

The Korea Coast Guard successfully rescued both individuals using a motorized rescue boat.

However, one Coast Guard officer sustained an ankle injury during the rescue operation.

The Coast Guard has repeatedly urged the public to check tide tables before heading out for such activities and to strictly follow safety protocols, such as wearing life jackets.

(Source: Instagram, Seogwipo Coast Guard)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.