Visit Jeju's Website
In the deep blue waters surrounding Jeju Island, a remarkable story of resilience, sisterhood, and survival continues to unfold. The haenyeo, South Korea's legendary women divers, embrace the sea every day to harvest seafood and guard a thousand-year-old tradition. These extraordinary women, most now in their 60s, 70s, and 80s, are the living embodiment of culture, environment, and strength.
The recent documentary "The Last of the Sea Women," produced by Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai, brings their incredible story to the global stage. It reveals a community that has survived centuries of hardship, economic challenges, and environmental changes. However, the haenyeo, who once numbered around 30,000 in the 1960s, have declined to approximately 3,200 today. Each of their lives and challenges directly impacts South Korea’s cultural treasure. Let’s take a closer look at how the nation is contributing to their preservation and prosperity.
The Historical Roots: A Thousand-Year Maritime Tradition
The diving tradition of the haenyeo stretches back over a millennium, with roots deeply embedded in the socio-economic landscape of Jeju Island. Many historians believe it was around the 17th century that these women became the primary divers. There are many theories about what happened to the male divers, known as pojak, but little evidence backs any of them.
Some historical records indicate that pojak may have been lost to the treacherous seas or left the island after conflicts with royal authorities over abalone harvesting. The women who couldn’t break their bond w
Enjoy full access for just $1
Join over 10,000 active members!
🌟 Special Contents for Subscribers
