The episode from the Netflix drama highlights the life of haenyeo, women who dive into the ocean for abalone and sea snails. This unique tradition, rooted in the 17th century, is specific to Jeju Island, Korea, where these women continually gather shellfish and seaweed.
However, the narrative set in the 1960s doesn’t resonate with today’s reality. One haenyeo notes that “the seaweed here has disappeared, and seaweed is what abalone feed on. Without seaweed, there’s no abalone.”
Myeonghyo, a haenyeo, also doubles as a citizen scientist and environmentalist. In her 40s, she embodies a new wave of traditional Korean divers, aiming to reshape the perception of women in society.
“We survive by collecting and selling seafood, but we protect them. It shows how humans and nature can coexist,” Myeonghyo states.
Haenyeo represents an important part of Korea’s cultural heritage, and UNESCO has recognized their tradition as an intangible cultural asset focused on sustainability. Nevertheless, the future of haenyeo is uncertain, as most of the divers are now over 70. The central and local governments are hopeful for a younger generation to take up the mantle.
When the Jeju authorities applied for UNESCO recognition, they described how haenyeo reflect both the island’s natural environment and the spirit of its people. Yet, Myeonghyo is concerned that the current interest in haenyeo may not necessarily benefit women’s futures.
She expresses discomfort about the portrayal of haenyeo stories, suggesting that crucial aspects of their lives are often overlooked. “There is a famous haenyeo choir. At official events, they’re invited to sing charming songs. But those songs don’t represent joy; they reflect something deeper and truer,” she says.
The fascination with haenyeo has surged in recent years, tied to the global rise of K-Pop and new media portrayals. For instance, a K-drama and an Apple TV documentary have recently showcased their experiences. Additionally, the BBC plans to air a program on this subject soon.
Myeonghyo hopes to leverage the popularity of haenyeo to educate folks about marine ecology and instigate the formation of citizen science teams.
“I often feel like haenyeo are showcased in ways that make me feel isolated,” she notes, pointing out how their story embodies a long-standing tradition of caring for both the vulnerable in their community and the environment.
She mentions a tradition called Halmeoni Bada, or “Grandma’s Sea,” where shallow waters are meticulously tended to by older divers. “We have this method of looking after the elderly and vulnerable,” Myeonghyo recounts.
Haenyeo also collaborate with the ocean; for instance, they refrain from diving during shellfish breeding seasons and avoid harvesting undersized conch to allow them to breed properly.
“We live by gathering seafood, but we also make sure to safeguard it,” she stresses. “This shows how humans and nature can coexist.”
As a part of her advocacy, Myeonghyo is associated with a community-driven NGO focused on marine science. This group is dedicated to tracking changes in Jeju’s marine environment and lobbying for policy changes to enhance ocean protection.
She needed to learn how to dive with scuba gear to document the underwater ecosystems, especially given the alarming effects of rising temperatures in recent years, which have brought new species to the area.
Advisors to the NGO note that while older generations are often reluctant to discuss environmental concerns, engaging them one-on-one can gradually open up important conversations.
But Myeonghyo faces a personal conflict: her mother. Chunsuk, now 69, became a haenyeo at 17. Yet she doesn’t fully understand why her daughter feels compelled to follow in her footsteps.
“When I raised her, my hope was that she’d pursue a stable career as a civil servant,” Chunsuk admits. “Older women often prefer their daughters to avoid the life of a haenyeo.” Yet Myeonghyo feels differently, envisioning a future where her daughter helps protect the ocean and fosters better living conditions. Still, she acknowledges, “she won’t necessarily take my advice.”
