Jeju Haenyeo Culture | Women W

Jeju Haenyeo Culture | Women Who Live by the Sea

Haenyeo are a defining figure in Jeju Island's cultural memory. Without boats or diving equipment, they submerge themselves in the icy waters, collecting abalone, conch, sea urchin, and various seaweeds to support their families.

The origins of Haenyeo culture date back hundreds of years. Early men ventured out to sea for fishing, a risky endeavor. Many men failed to return, so women took on this life-threatening task. Jeju's coastline is marked by the figures and sounds of these women—the sighs that rise from the water, known as "Sumbi Sori," are like the ocean's inhalation and exhalation, a testament to the continuity of life.

Haenyeo wear simple equipment: a thick diving suit, a simple mask, a bamboo float, and a fishing net. Their sensitivity to currents, tides, and weather stems from years of experience, allowing them to virtually feel the changes on the seafloor with their skin.

On Jeju Island, haenyeo (Haenyeo) is more than just a profession; it symbolizes a spirit—one that represents courage, resilience, and a commitment to coexistence with nature. Since the 2000s, with the decline of the fishing industry and the exodus of young people, the number of haenyeo has drastically decreased, with most haenyeo now over 60 years old. In 2016, Jeju haenyeo culture was designated an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, preserving this unique wisdom of island life.

Post by 諸文武 | Aug 11, 2025