The Haenyeo of Jeju Island, South Korea, are more than divers — they are guardians of tradition, symbols of resilience, and living cultural treasures. Recognised by UNESCO as part of the world’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, these women, some well into their 70s and 80s, have spent their lives freediving to harvest seafood from the ocean. Photographer and director Jose Jeuland has dedicated years to documenting the Haenyeo through an intimate series of portraits and underwater photography, bringing their legacy to audiences around the globe.
Who are the Haenyeo?
The Haenyeo, literally translated as “sea women,” are a community of female divers from Jeju Island. Without oxygen tanks or modern diving equipment, they plunge into the sea, holding their breath for minutes at a time to gather shellfish, seaweed, and abalone. Their work is physically demanding and dangerous, yet they embody a rare spirit of courage and independence.
Traditionally, the Haenyeo were breadwinners in their families, defying social norms in a patriarchal society. Their matriarchal community became an emblem of empowerment, admired both in Korea and internationally.
Jose Jeuland’s Journey with the Haenyeo
Jose Jeuland, a professional photographer and filmmaker based in Singapore and Paris, first encountered the Haenyeo during his travels to Jeju. Fascinated by their story, he embarked on an immersive project to capture their lives through photography.
His portraits go beyond surface-level documentation. By spending time with the Haenyeo in their homes, villages, and the open sea, Jeuland built trust and rapport, which allowed him to photograph them in the most authentic way possible. From powerful studio-style portraits that highlight every wrinkle earned through decades of diving, to action shots of the women emerging from the ocean with their nets, Jeuland’s work reflects both the physical intensity and emotional depth of their lives.
Challenges of Photographing the Haenyeo
Photographing the Haenyeo is not a simple task. It requires patience, respect, and adaptability. Many of the women are elderly, and their routines follow the rhythm of the sea. Jeuland often waited for the right moments, adapting to weather conditions, light, and the unpredictability of the ocean.
Underwater photography presented its own challenges. Without artificial setups or staged conditions, Jeuland had to capture the Haenyeo in their natural environment. This meant adjusting quickly to movement, light refraction, and timing — all while preserving the authenticity of the scene.
The results are striking: photographs that feel raw, unfiltered, and deeply human.
The Emotional Impact of the Series
The Haenyeo photography series has been exhibited internationally, from Germany to Singapore, and has attracted wide attention from both the art community and the general public. Audiences often respond with awe — not only at the technical mastery of the images, but at the strength, dignity, and beauty of the women depicted.
For Jeuland, the goal was not only to create visually powerful portraits but also to ensure that the Haenyeo’s stories continue to inspire future generations. As the number of Haenyeo divers declines each year, photography plays a vital role in preserving their memory.
Why the Haenyeo Matter Today
In today’s rapidly modernising world, traditions like that of the Haenyeo face extinction. Young women rarely choose to follow in the footsteps of their mothers and grandmothers, as the work is too physically demanding and financially unstable compared to other careers.
By photographing the Haenyeo, Jeuland contributes to safeguarding cultural heritage. His images stand as historical records, artistic tributes, and reminders of the importance of resilience, independence, and respect for nature.
The Haenyeo are not simply subjects; they are symbols of human endurance, environmental harmony, and female empowerment.
Jose Jeuland’s Broader Vision
This project reflects a broader theme in Jeuland’s body of work: capturing communities, traditions, and individuals who embody resilience and cultural depth. Whether it is street portraits in India, commercial photography in Singapore, or hospitality campaigns worldwide, his approach remains the same — to tell human stories through powerful imagery.
The Haenyeo series exemplifies his philosophy: photography is not only about aesthetics, but about connecting people, bridging cultures, and sparking conversations that matter.
Explore the Haenyeo Photography Series
The Haenyeo photography collection by Jose Jeuland remains one of his most celebrated works. Through exhibitions, publications, and online features, these portraits continue to travel, giving audiences worldwide a chance to meet the remarkable women of Jeju Island.
For those interested in cultural photography, Jeuland’s Haenyeo work is both a visual journey and a historical archive. It invites viewers to pause, reflect, and honour the women who, for centuries, have lived in harmony with the sea.
Conclusion
The Haenyeo of Jeju Island are extraordinary women who represent strength, tradition, and the bond between humans and nature. Through his photography, Jose Jeuland has immortalised their legacy, ensuring that their courage and culture will not fade away with time. His images serve not only as art but as a vital contribution to cultural preservation.
As audiences engage with his Haenyeo photography, they are reminded of the power of visual storytelling — to inspire, to educate, and to connect across borders.
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Discover more of Jose Jeuland’s Haenyeo photography or explore his full photography portfolio. For media, exhibitions, or collaboration inquiries, contact Jose Jeuland.
