Salt and Sea Women of South Korea.
https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/jeju-provincial-self-governing-heanyeo-museum
The haenyeo, also known as "sea women," are a unique community of divers on Jeju Island, South Korea. These extraordinary women practice freediving to harvest seafood, seaweed, and other marine resources, a tradition that dates back more than 1,500 years. Without the use of modern equipment such as oxygen tanks, haenyeo can dive up to 20 meters deep and hold their breath for over two minutes to collect shellfish, seaweed and other seafood. This tradition dates back more than a thousand years and has played a crucial role in the local economy and culture of the island. . Their skill and endurance are the result of years of training and a deep connection with the ocean. The life of the haenyeo is not only a testament to physical prowess, but also to a very strong community spirit. Dives are often preceded by rituals and prayers for safety and prosperity, and fisherwomen work in organized groups to support each other. Furthermore, the tradition is passed down from generation to generation, with young women learning the techniques and knowledge from their mothers and grandmothers. This passage of knowledge is crucial, especially in an era where the number of haenyeo is declining due to an aging population and modernization.
The haenyeo were recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016, a recognition that highlights the importance of preserving this unique tradition. In addition to their fishing prowess, haenyeo exemplify strength, resilience, and dedication, embodying values that transcend generations. Haenyeo are also known for their social organization and division of labor based on experience and age. There are three main categories: "hagye," veterans with more than 30 years of experience; "jungnyeo," with experience between 10 and 30 years; and "sanyeo," novices with less than 10 years of experience. This hierarchical structure not only promotes the transmission of skills, but also ensures that marine resources are harvested in a sustainable way. In fact, the haenyeo practice fishing that respects the environment, avoiding harvesting shellfish that are too young and giving the colonies time to regenerate.
Little girls in Jeju may start learning from their mothers or village elders when they are still very young, often around the age of seven or eight. This initial training includes swimming, holding your breath, and diving in shallow water. As time passes, the girls gain more experience and confidence, and begin to dive into deeper waters and collect a wider variety of marine products. Becoming an expert Haenyeo takes years of practice and dedication.
The tools they use are essential and designed to help them do their jobs effectively and safely. One of the main tools is the "taewak", a large wooden or plastic buoy that helps them float and rest on the surface. This buoy is often accompanied by a net, called "mangsari", where the Haenyeo place the seafood collected during their dives.
Another fundamental tool is the "sogum", an underwater knife used to detach molluscs and other marine organisms from rocks. The knife must be sharp and sturdy to deal with the harsh conditions of the seabed. The Haenyeo also use a diving mask, called a "mulsoogae", which covers their eyes and nose, allowing them to see clearly underwater and protecting them from the cold. Unlike modern diving masks, these are designed to be simple and functional.
Finally, the clothing of the Haenyeo is equally important. They wear a rubber wetsuit called a "mulot", which protects them from the cold and abrasions while in the water. A lead belt helps balance buoyancy, allowing them to dive more easily. Despite the simplicity of the tools used, the Haenyeo demonstrate extraordinary craftsmanship and endurance. The haenyeo practice a unique and fascinating ritual before each dive, invoking the protection of marine deities to ensure their safety and success in harvesting marine resources. In particular, they offer prayers and perform a ceremony called Jamsugut, to the God Yowang, deity of the sea and fishing, and his wife the Goddess Yowangbuin.
Today, Haenyeo numbers are dwindling due to an aging population and modernization, but their legacy lives on through tales, museums, and initiatives to preserve this fascinating part of Korea's cultural heritage.
In the 1960s, it was estimated that there were approximately 23,000 active Haenyeo. However, due to various factors such as the aging population, the lack of young women willing to undertake this difficult and dangerous profession, and economic and social changes, the number of Haenyeo has drastically decreased. Today, it is estimated that there are fewer than 2,000 left, with the majority of them over the age of 60.
There are many Kdramas and Films that tell about the Seafarers of Jeju:
A Haenyeo-focused kdarma is "WELCOME TO SAMDAL_RI" which is about Cho Yong-pil and Cho Sam-dal, two childhood friends who live on Jeju Island. . After losing his mother to an incorrect weather report, Yong-pil decides to become a meteorologist, to protect the elderly in his city, but gains a reputation as a stubborn troublemaker for his fight against misinformation. Sam-dal, however, moves to Seoul, to pursue her dream of becoming a fashion photographer and changes her name to Cho Eun-hye. When her life suddenly falls apart, she returns to Jeju, where she and Yong-pil rediscover their affection for each other
Another relevant title is "Haenyeo's Kitchen", a reality show/documentary that follows the lives of these extraordinary women. While not a K-drama in the traditional sense, it offers an authentic and fascinating look at the daily lives of the Haenyeo, showcasing not only their diving skills but also their cuisine and their connection to the community.
Finally, "Tamra, the Island" is another K-drama that, set during the Joseon Dynasty period, explores life on Jeju Island and features characters who are Haenyeo. This historical-romantic drama offers a unique perspective on the traditions and difficulties faced by female spear fishermen of that time.
Paola Pelissa