Haenyeo
Haenyeo (also spelled haenyo) (Hangul: 해녀; lit. "sea women") are female divers in the South Korean province of Jeju, whose livelihood consists of harvesting a variety of mollusks, seaweed, and other sea life from the ocean. Known for their independent spirit, iron will and determination, haenyeo are representative of the semi-matriarchal family structure of Jeju. (Wikipedia)
created by jellifysh
last updated December, 2025
Comments
Such a cool list! I watched the Korean movie Smugglers a few years ago and thought it was really interesting how it showed the bond between the haenyeo. I'm not sure if it fits this list exactly, but June Hur's book The Forest of Stolen Girls features haenyeo divers as part of the story, as it's set on Jeju Island.
Oh, thank you! Added The Forest of Stolen Girls to the list (and my tbr)
© 2025 Pagebound