Photobook praises Jeju's brave 'haenyeo' divers

By Jin Yu-young

On Jeju Island, the “haenyeo” (sea women) make their livelihood as the free divers of Korea. Currently numbering at 4,500, the haenyeo have a rich history and unbreakable bond as mothers, daughters and sisters of the sea.

To capture their work and livelihood, photographer Y. Zin has compiled her first photo book in which she illustrates their unique stories both in and out of the water. Y. Zin is Korea's first National Geographic underwater photographer and went to Jeju Island on multiple occasions to observe the haenyeo.

It took her five years to complete this project.

The haenyeo dive to the ocean floor for a variety of sea harvests such as abalone and shellfish. They spend approximately five hours a day diving and can gather up to 60 kilograms each session. This is an impressive feat for the haenyeo, whose ages mostly range from 60 to 80. Even the eldest among them, who are over 90 years old, are still agile as ever.

“Haenyeo: Women Divers of Korea” by Y. Zin

Y. Zin describes the women's relationships as “based on a beautiful harmony of competition and consideration…they have dived countless times over the years but they are still afraid of the sea that is never the same… that's why they need one another.”

In the photographs, the women help one another prepare for their dives. They are also seen holding hands in prayer before going into the ocean, an indication of their dependence on one another and family-like dynamic.

The photo book also shows the haenyeo in action. In the depths of Jeju waters, the divers scour the corals and foliage. Through these photographs, we see not only the strength and bravery of these women, but also witness the natural wonders that Jeju has to offer. Recognized in 2002 by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, the photographs prove the island is home to some of Korea's most beautiful scenery.

Despite the dangerous nature of their work, the haenyeo are happy being at sea and are smiling in the pictures. “They are more aware than anybody of how beautiful and precious their communal culture is and how much they owe to nature,” Y. Zin says.

Even through setbacks such as ripped suits and tragic causalities, the haeneyo are a positive and kind group who are steadfast in their dedication to diving.

At the end of the book, Y. Zin includes photographs of herself with several of the haenyeo. It is clear that they too have formed a type of friendship throughout this project. She hopes this photo book will help people realize “how great the haenyeo and their culture are.” She also expresses her intention to return to Jeju Island in the future to reconnect with these women and to continue photographing the stories of the haenyeo.

Jin Yu-young is a Korea Times intern.