On Jeju Island, there is a community of haenyeo (women divers), who dive 10 meters under the sea without the help of oxygen masks to gather marine life for a living. Their culture remains an integral aspect of the identity of the Jeju people, with many families having deep-rooted connections to the haenyeo practitioners. The skills and diving techniques of the haenyeo are not innate but passed down through generations of women, within families and haenyeo communities. However, due to the aging of practitioners and the degradation of marine ecosystems caused by climate change and environmental pollution, the sustainability of these practices is increasingly jeopardized. In recognition of the importance of safeguarding this living heritage, the recruitment and training of new haenyeo are underway at two Haenyeo Schools, and educational programmes for youth are offered by the Haenyeo Museum.
© Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, 2024
What was the need?
The two primary factors impeding the transmission of this practice are the aging population of practitioners and the deteriorating marine environment. In 2013, when preparations for the nomination to UNESCO’s Representative List were underway, the number of Jeju haenyeo exceeded 4,500; however, by the end of 2024, this figure had dwindled to approximately 2,600. Notably, more than 60% of the haenyeo are aged 70 or older, and when including those in their 60s, this figure increases to 90%. This decline is mainly due to the aging population, the reduced influx of new haenyeo, and the shrinking of fishing grounds caused by the degradation of marine ecosystems driven by climate change and environmental deterioration. Many haenyeo have attested to the detrimental effects of coastal developments, such as the construction of power plants, rising sea temperatures caused by climate change, and pollution from waste left by tourists. These factors have contributed to a shift in marine biodiversity, further undermining the sustainability of the haenyeo tradition.
‘The haenyeo are slowly disappearing, and the sea has become quiet. There are nets and other debris scattered along the shore, and we’re cleaning them up, but I’m worried because the catch has been poor due to ocean pollution.’
Soondeok Kim, 83 years old, current haenyeo
© Center for Jeju Studies, 2024
What approaches were implemented?
The safeguarding and transmission of the haenyeo culture of Jeju is inherently linked to the recruitment of new haenyeo. Each year, approximately 30 individuals are selected for two distinct programmes offered by two Haenyeo Schools: a vocational course and an introductory training course. In particular, the introductory training course welcomes those with a strong interest in becoming haenyeo, both from within Jeju and beyond. The curriculum combines theoretical instruction with practical training, including one-on-one mentorship, and covers essential topics such as the history of the haenyeo, diving techniques, breathing methods, and an understanding of the marine ecosystem.
Concerning marine conservation, haenyeo communities jointly engage in collecting underwater debris and the practice of gaetdakgi, which involves cleaning ocean rocks from lichen. These communal activities, conducted regularly, serve to enhance the growth of seaweed and contribute to the sustainability of marine resources.
Furthermore, the Haenyeo Museum plays a pivotal role in raising awareness of haenyeo culture through its educational programmes for youth. These programmes encompass a variety of engaging activities, including storytelling by retired haenyeo, demonstrations of muljil (the work of haenyeo), crafting miniature haenyeo-related tools, and the collective learning and performance of haenyeo songs.
‘Without the sea, how could we dive again if we were reborn? The sea breathes life into the haenyeo, and the haenyeo weave life into the sea.’
Heesoon Lee, 79 years old, current haenyeo
How did it work?
For the haenyeo themselves, there has been a gradual yet steady influx of new members, including male individuals, migrants, and foreigners, sparking growing interest in the profession. Data reveals that between 2012 and 2016, 94 new haenyeo were recruited, of which only 15% were graduates of dedicated Haenyeo Schools. However, from 2017 to 2023, this number incresed to 41% of the 216 newly recruited haenyeo. Notably, 2024 witnessed the highest number of new haenyeo in the past decade, with 27 individuals joining the fishing villages of Seogwipo City. Of these 27 newcomers, 25 are graduates of one of the Haenyeo Schools, marking a record number of village joiners among the Haenyeo School graduates. As the tradition of intergenerational transmission of the haenyeo profession within familial lines weakens, an increasing number of graduates from Haenyeo Schools are entering the profession.
Beyond Haenyeo Schools or Museum teachers, haenyeo associations have also broadened their activities, collaborating with other environmental advocacy groups to make their voices heard and ensure that their cultural heritage continues to thrive. Through these efforts, the haenyeo’s living heritage is safeguarded and passed down to future generations.
© Haenyeo Museum, 2024
How was the community involved?
As a community-driven specialization initiative, the Haenyeo Schools are exclusively administered by haenyeo associations—voluntary organizations affiliated with local village fishery cooperatives. The curriculum at the Haenyeo Schools encompasses a comprehensive range of subjects, including haenyeo culture, diving theory, safety education, and practical diving training. Upon the completion of the programme, trainees are assigned to coastal communities of their choosing, where they will continue their hands-on education under the guidance of sanggun haenyeo (upper-skilled divers).
The educational programmes offered by the Haenyeo Museum extend beyond mere observation; they are designed to provide immersive, hands-on experiences. They combine direct interaction with haenyeo, allowing participants to engage in discussions with them. The field experience provides trainees with the opportunity to learn from haenyeo’s life experiences, participate in Q&A sessions with them, and have insightful commentary on their unique profession. Each Haenyeo association takes turns facilitating these programmes, ensuring that the transmission of knowledge and culture is actively shared with each new cohort of participants.
Contactos para compartir experiencias
National Haenyeo Association
Jeju Island, Republic of Korea
Language for contact: Korean
koreanhaenyeo@gmail.com
Para saber más
- Videos about this experience