Structural Limitations in the Education and Certification System for Commercial Diving in Korea

This study evaluates whether the current Korean education and certification system for commercial divers adequately reflects the inherently high-risk nature of commercial diving operations by systematically comparing it with internationally recognized frameworks. The analysis reveals that the domestic certification system is predominantly administrative, characterized by permanent certification, limited role differentiation, and the absence of post-certification competence management. These structural features limit the system’s capacity to function as an effective safety control mechanism in dynamic, hazardous underwater working environments. In contrast, major international certification frameworks are grounded in competence-based management principles. Under these systems, diver qualification is not treated as a static credential but as an indicator of current operational readiness, continuously verified through role-specific certification pathways, logbook-based validation of practical experience, periodic medical assessments, and certification renewal or equivalent continuing-competence requirements. The findings indicate that the Korean commercial diving certification system remains structurally misaligned with the evolving risk profiles and operational demands of commercial diving. By highlighting the limitations of permanent, examination-centered certification schemes, this study provides an analytical basis for reassessing the functional role of diver certification as a dynamic safety assurance mechanism, informed by international best practices.