Photographer José Jeuland New Photography Project and Exclusive Interview

Haenyeo, Women Divers Of The Sea . Jeju Island, South Korea

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The Korean tradition of deep-sea diving for fresh seafood dates back to the 5th century. Initially, males dominated this profession. However, by the 18th century, women divers, also known as Haenyeo or “sea women,” gradually became associated with this tradition. In November 2016, the Haenyeo from Jeju Island, South Korea were inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

The Origins of The Haenyeo women Divers – The Haenyeo is best known as the female divers from Jeju Island. without proper equipment, they dive into waters twenty meters deep to catch fresh seafood from the depths of the ocean. Equipped with only a lead-weighted vest and goggles, these women make dozens of dives a day while holding their breath for slightly more than two minutes at a time and descent up to 20 meters. Diving as a Haenyeo is no mean feat – for the work is often backbreaking and dangerous. Due to the grueling nature of the work, the Sea women portray a rich tradition that is slowly being eroded. Industrialization also played a part in this dying tradition. Through mastering craft for many years, a large percentage of the Haenyeo replaced their husbands to the breadwinner of the household.

Most of the Haenyeo are between 60 to 80 years old, and they started the activity at a very young age as early as 11 years old. They make their living by selling their catch to restaurants, tourists, or collectivity to export.

I moved to Singapore from France and the United States. I wanted to be based here and was doing my transition from being a professional athlete to becoming a professional photographer.