In the deep waters of Jeju Island, South Korea, lives a remarkable community of women whose stories transcend time, tide, and tradition. They are the Haenyeo—translated as “sea women”—female free-divers who, for centuries, have harvested the ocean’s bounty without oxygen tanks, armed only with their breath, their skill, and an unshakable bond with the sea.
These women, often in their 60s to 80s, embody a lifestyle that is as beautiful as it is endangered. As a photographer and documentarian, I have had the honor of witnessing and capturing their quiet power, their rituals, and their resilience. The Haenyeo are not only extraordinary athletes and keepers of cultural tradition—they are living symbols of harmony between human and nature.
This project seeks to celebrate the enduring spirit of the Haenyeo, preserving their stories in visuals and voice. Through a deep photographic exploration, I hope to document their heritage, strength, and connection to the ocean that has defined their identity.
Who Are the Haenyeo?
The Haenyeo (pronounced haen-yeo) are a unique group of women divers from Jeju Island, designated as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2016. For generations, these women have made their living harvesting seafood such as abalone, conch, sea cucumbers, urchins, and seaweed—all while free-diving to depths of up to 10–20 meters without any breathing apparatus.
This traditional way of life dates back to at least the 17th century, though some historical sources suggest earlier origins. Unlike male-dominated fishing societies, Jeju’s diving culture evolved into a matriarchal economy, where women became the primary earners and decision-makers in their households.
The Daily Rituals of a Haenyeo
Long before sunrise, the Haenyeo gather to check the tide, wind, and sea conditions. Clad in black wetsuits, equipped with goggles, a lead-weighted belt, and a mesh net or “taewak” (a buoy that stores their catch), they head into the cold Korean Strait, often diving for hours at a time.
Their breath control is astonishing. Some can hold their breath for over two minutes, diving repeatedly in icy waters throughout the day. After each dive, the sea rings with the sound of their “sumbi-sori”—a whistling exhalation as they release the air they’ve held during their deep, silent plunge.
This sound, a kind of breath-song, has become a hauntingly beautiful signature of the Haenyeo—a song of life between the waves.
A Culture Rooted in Resilience and Sisterhood
Beyond their physical prowess, what makes the Haenyeo extraordinary is their sense of community and shared wisdom. Younger women once trained under elder divers in a mentorship system that emphasized patience, respect for nature, and sustainable fishing practices.
Unlike commercial fisheries, Haenyeo practice rotational harvesting, ensuring the marine ecosystem is not depleted. They respect closed seasons and avoid harvesting undersized shellfish. Their approach is one of coexistence, not conquest—making them pioneers of sustainable living long before it became a global conversation.
In their free-diving, there is no competition—only camaraderie. They dive in teams, look out for one another, and share stories over meals after the day’s work. This unspoken bond, born from the sea, is perhaps the deepest form of sisterhood.
The Decline of a Tradition
Sadly, the Haenyeo population has been steadily declining. Today, fewer than 3,000 remain, and the average age of these divers is over 70. The younger generation, drawn to urban life and modern jobs, rarely chooses to inherit this physically demanding and often dangerous occupation.
Climate change, pollution, and over-tourism further threaten the delicate balance the Haenyeo have preserved for centuries. Their future is uncertain—but their story is too vital to fade into obscurity.
That is why documenting their lives through photography, film, and narrative is more important than ever.
The Haenyeo Through My Lens
My journey with the Haenyeo began as a project of passion but soon evolved into a deeply personal experience. Each face I photographed told a story—not just of labor and sacrifice—but of joy, pride, and spiritual connection to the ocean.
Behind the Camera:
Capturing the Haenyeo wasn’t just about aesthetics. It was about honoring their truth. I spent time with them onshore, listening to their stories in quiet conversations. I waited for the perfect light to reflect their weathered suits, the droplets on their skin, the calm power in their eyes.
Their gear—simple, practical, unglamorous—contrasted with the profound elegance of their movements beneath the water. They dive not for sport, but for sustenance. Yet in their silent dances beneath the sea, there is poetry.
These portraits and environmental shots form part of an ongoing photographic exhibition and visual archive, offering a glimpse into a vanishing world that deserves to be seen and remembered.
Why Their Story Matters Today
In an age where modernity often severs us from nature, the Haenyeo remind us of a different rhythm—one shaped by seasons, intuition, and reverence for life. They show us that strength need not be loud, that sustainability is born from respect, and that tradition can be as vital as innovation.
Their story is not just a Korean one. It’s a human one. It asks: what do we value? What are we willing to preserve? And how can we live in harmony with the natural world?
By bringing global awareness to the Haenyeo, we don’t just honor their legacy—we also reflect on our own choices, consumption, and community.
Haenyeo in the Modern World
Despite the challenges, there is hope. Cultural organizations, artists, filmmakers, and governments are stepping in to preserve and promote the legacy of the Haenyeo.
- Museums and exhibitions in Jeju and around the world are showcasing their tools, rituals, and stories.
- Younger women, though few, are beginning to train under elders, bridging past and future.
- Global travelers visit Jeju not just for scenery, but to learn about the Haenyeo way of life.
At the intersection of heritage and artistry, photographers play a vital role in this preservation—documenting moments that words alone cannot convey.
The Power of Visual Storytelling
As a visual artist, I believe photography can transcend language. When I photograph the Haenyeo, I don’t just capture images—I capture time, breath, struggle, and grace.
Every photograph is an invitation:
- To feel the salt of the sea on your skin.
- To hear the sumbi-sori echo across the waves.
- To witness the timeless bond between woman and water.
This project isn’t just about the Haenyeo—it’s about the essence of resilience in all of us.
Supporting the Haenyeo Legacy
If you’re inspired by the Haenyeo, there are ways to support their story:
- Visit Jeju mindfully – Support local guides, stay in eco-conscious accommodations, and learn from cultural museums like the Haenyeo Museum in Hado-ri.
- Support artists and photographers – Purchase prints, attend exhibitions, and share their work to raise awareness.
- Learn and share – Use your voice to tell others about these remarkable women. Post. Write. Educate.
- Respect the oceans – The Haenyeo’s life is a testament to what balance with nature looks like. Reduce plastic use. Support marine conservation.
Featured Project – “Haenyeo: Wisdom in the Water”
Explore my ongoing photo series and visual archive dedicated to the Haenyeo. Through environmental portraits, underwater shots, and documentary footage, the project captures:
- The grace of their dives
- The tension of their breath holds
- The serenity of their rituals
- The resilience written on every face
View the full gallery
Limited edition prints available
Short film coming soon
This is more than a gallery—it is a call to remember.
Final Thoughts – The Haenyeo Legacy Lives On
In every dive, every breath, and every moment spent under the waves, the Haenyeo of Jeju Island remind us what it means to live with intention, courage, and reverence for the world around us.
They are the last mermaids of Korea – not mythical, but real. Not distant, but deeply human. Their legacy lives not just in the waters of Jeju but in the hearts of all who witness their story.
At Jose Jeuland Photography, I am humbled to share their voices through my lens. This project is not just a documentation—it is a tribute.
