"Didn't Give Filming Permission": Sea Turtle Slaps Diver, Internet Users Amused

Interest among internet users surged after a sea turtle, usually known for its gentle nature, was spotted approaching a diver first and waving its flipper.

On May 6, Yonhap News TV, citing NDTV and other sources, reported that a video showing a diver seemingly being slapped repeatedly on the cheek by a sea turtle is gaining popularity online.

On May 2, travel content creator Christopher Chang encountered a sea turtle while diving in Southeast Asian waters on April 28. In the video released by Chang, the sea turtle can be seen slowly circling around him before suddenly extending its front flipper, appearing to hit him in the face.

A sea turtle, usually known for its gentle image, was captured approaching a diver first and flapping its flippers. NDTV

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Caught off guard by the unexpected situation, Chang could not hide his bewilderment. After surfacing, he expressed his astonishment, saying, "That sea turtle slapped me on the cheek." However, the incident did not end there. When Chang reentered the water, the same sea turtle approached him again and this time also waved its flipper, brushing against his face.

Describing the situation, Chang explained, "Normally, sea turtles don't pay much attention to people and just swim by leisurely. But this one was different." He added, "When spending time with wild animals, you sometimes get a sense of their energy or mood, and this sea turtle was definitely unusual." He continued, "I've encountered sea turtles hundreds of times over the years, but I've never had an experience like this. The turtle kept circling around me and even stared at me intently." Chang said he could not tell whether the turtle's behavior was playful or a sign of caution, but he decided that it would not be appropriate to stay close any longer. In the end, he reportedly turned his boat around and left the scene, thinking that anything could happen.

The video quickly went viral after being released online, surpassing 1.5 million views. NDTV

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The video quickly went viral after being released online, surpassing 1.5 million views. Internet users commented, "Maybe it's because you filmed without the turtle's consent," "That sea turtle knows you use plastic straws," and "It looks like an enforcer keeping order in the sea."

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