The Last Of The Sea Women

Preserving a Matrilineal Legacy: The Endangered Tradition of Jeju’s Haenyeo

By Marisa Nguyen-Minh Ha

South Korea - The haenyeo, or "sea women," are a community of female free-divers from Jeju Island, South Korea, known for their ability to harvest seafood without the aid of modern diving equipment. 

This unique matrilineal society has existed for centuries, with historical records dating back to the 17th century indicating the prominence of women in the island’s fishing economy.

Unlike much of Korea, which traditionally followed Confucian patriarchal structures, Jeju Island developed a distinctive social order where women took on the primary economic role. Haenyeo would dive to depths of up to 10 meters to collect abalone, sea cucumbers, seaweed, and other marine life, often spending several hours in the sea each day. Their ability to sustain the island’s economy allowed them to gain significant financial independence, which led to a matriarchal household structure where women were the primary breadwinners and decision-makers.

The haenyeo culture has been passed down through generations, with daughters often following in their mothers' footsteps from a young age. Training began in childhood, with girls learning breath-holding techniques and ocean survival skills. By the time they reached adulthood, they were capable of making deep, extended dives, relying on their extensive knowledge of the ocean and marine ecosystems. These women practiced cooperative labor and shared their earnings, reinforcing communal bonds and mutual support.

Despite their economic and social independence, haenyeo have faced challenges over time. The rapid modernization of South Korea led to a decline in their numbers, as younger women sought alternative careers. Today, most active haenyeo are between the ages of 60 and 80, with only a small number of younger divers joining their ranks. The tradition is now considered endangered, with fewer than 4,000 haenyeo remaining, compared to the estimated 26,000 in the 1960s.

In 2016, UNESCO recognized the haenyeo culture as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its historical and cultural importance. The South Korean government has since supported preservation efforts, offering subsidies and training programs to encourage the continuation of the tradition. However, environmental challenges, such as climate change and marine pollution, threaten the sustainability of their way of life.

Malala Yousafzai’s documentary, "The Last of the Sea Women," seeks to bring global attention to this disappearing tradition, shedding light on the resilience and cultural significance of the haenyeo. Directed by Sue Kim and produced by Yousafzai, the film provides an in-depth look at the lives of these remarkable divers who have upheld their matrilineal traditions for generations. The documentary is available exclusively on Apple TV+, where viewers can witness the incredible perseverance of the haenyeo and their fight to preserve their way of life against the forces of modernization and environmental change. Through centuries of dedication to their craft, these women have embodied strength, independence, and environmental stewardship, making their legacy a vital part of Korea’s cultural history.