The haenyeo are resilient women who have overcome their limits while forging a life in the deep, cold waters of the sea. Through their work in the ocean, they achieved economic independence and grew stronger by supporting one another within a close-knit community. These women have not only preserved their traditions but have also been reinterpreted in modern society as symbols of environmental conservation and female empowerment. In 2016, Jeju haenyeo culture was recognized globally by being inscribed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage, and its values and philosophy remain relevant today.
Introducing this haenyeo culture to an international audience is a vital task that showcases Jeju’s traditions on a global stage. By reimagining the stories of haenyeo through storytelling, video, and experiential content, we can naturally engage people from around the world. Moreover, by highlighting themes like environmental protection and sustainable marine resource management, we can convey messages that resonate with modern-day concerns. The resilient lives of Jeju haenyeo and their harmonious relationship with nature are stories worth sharing with the world.
