Jeju Haenyeo School Helps Local Sacred Tradition Live On
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Loading... - Akinari Sato
- 20 Jan 2023
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Amongst Jeju Island’s most iconic figures, haenyeo (divers) are just as revered as Hallasan volcano dolharubang (fertility statues), and other well-known local originals. But with Jeju’s majority populous of elderly female divers dwindling, and advanced fishing technologies encroaching their productivity, the Jeju haenyeo are in danger of vanishing.
Luckily there is the Jeju Hansupul Haenyeo School which opened in 2007 in Hallim along the western coast of the island. There prospective haenyeos can learn the craft from seasoned pros, help preserve the culture, and perhaps become part of the next generation of Jeju’s marine gatherers.
Applications for approximately 70 spots are accepted every April, and the competition for openings is tight. Many are turned away, and many reapply. Last season’s training included five foreigners and ten mainland students, while the rest hailed from Jeju. Both men (male divers are called haenam) and women can apply, despite the trade traditionally employing only women. Speaking Korean and possessing superior swimming ability are not necessary, but the ability to hold your breath underwater for multiple minutes like veteran Jeju haenyeos can is invaluable. Read More…
