The water quality of offshore waters around the Korean coast was evaluated by bioassay using gametes, embryoss and early development systems of a sea urchin species Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus. The results show that despite the inflows of several river systems, the west coast maintain the grade II water. This is thought to be due to the decrease in pollutant input resulting from the purification of inflow rivers (e.g., the control of waste water discharge and the construction of sewage treatment facilities), and the dilution of pollutants by a strong tidal mixing with a large difference between the ebb and flood tides. However, Asan, Hampyong and Chonsu bays, where circulations of water are relatively poor, and the Kunsan and Mokpo harbors which are influenced by pollutants from neighboring cities have shown the grade III water. The south coast has maintain the grade II or III because developments of sea urchins were moderately or strongly inhibited. Also, Kangjin, Duekryang, Kwangyang, Masan, and Jinhae bays where water circulations are relatively poor, show the grade III water, with strong inhibitions of the early development of sea urchins. The east coast has maintained the grade I and II due to monotonous coastlines and smooth circulation of sea water. However, Chongcho Lake shows the worst water quality due to the breakwater which is constructed to maintain port functions.