Haenyeo

Haenyeo are female free divers from Jeju Island, South Korea, renowned for their traditional coastal livelihood of harvesting seafood, such as shellfish and seaweed, without tanks or oxygen equipment. They utilize deep diving techniques and rely on extensive training and experience to safely collect marine resources directly from the ocean. Historically, Haenyeo have played a vital role in the local economy and culture, embodying a unique blend of skill, community, and environmental harmony. Recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, their practices represent resilience and sustainable interaction with the marine environment.