[This article is written by a JDC Junior Journalist. The JDC Junior Journalist program is an educational project sponsored by Jeju Free International City Development Corporation (JDC). JDC Junior Journalist articles are only briefly edited by mentors before publishing.]

“My biggest catch were three abalones that weight 1kg 200g.” said Mrs. Park su lan who worked in ocean for 55 years. She is a very special person in the island of jeju, the reason why she could work in ocean for so long time. People call her ‘Hanyeo’.

The term “Haenyeo” refers to a woman diver who catches abalone and sea animals. Long ago, the Hanyeo were considered low class, however now they have become important cultural icons which the present generation must preserve.

Research cited by Lee Hanyeong, the chariman of the Hanyeo Institute, shows that there is no special ability present in the Hanyeo compared to normal people. However, the Hanyeo can hold their breath for about 3 miniutes and endure water pressure which would distort a basket ball. The chairman said, “We expect that maybe, because they felt a deep responsibility for their family’s livelihood, the Hanyeo faced dangerous waves and drushing water pressure.”

Sadly these numinous mermaids of the island of jeju are quickly disappearing. The Hanyeo on Jeju island are now about 60~75years old. Most of them are now preparing to retire. Chairman Hanyeong said, “The disappearance of the Hanyeo is a very serious problem.”

He continued to elaborate on the issue, “Right now, there are only about 4 thousand hanyeo left on Jeju. The Hanyeo is a unique culture icon of our island, country and the world. We must protect this culture, if not, we will never see them again. Our institute is trying to spread this heritage to other countries and to people who dont know about Hanyeo. We try to support the Hanyeo and help them. Current Hanyeo are all old enough to retire, I think it’s now our generation’s turn to protect Hanyeo, a special culture of our country.” He summed up the Hanyeo in two words, ‘Ocean mothers’.

Even though the Hanyeo are a Korean cultural icon, those from outside of Korea’s borders are trying to learn about Hanyeo and experience the hard job. Wanda who graduated from The Hanyeo school in Jeju, she said, "I loved swimming and fishing when I was young. I think thats why I went to Hanyeo school. At the Haenyeo school I learned about the history of the Hanyeo, their culture, and even thier songs." She also said "What I learned throughout the school days was that we are all the same human beings. Eventhough we look different and were born in different countries, we are all same people. We care, we love, we housekeep, and we supports our family."

The Hanyeo culture in Jeju may seem very unique and exotic to travellers and even those from mainland Korea. Unfortunately, it is now rapidly disappearing. It is now our job to protect the Hanyeo culture.