The Last Mermaids: the history of sea women.
Jeju Island, located below South Korea, is home to the “Haenyeo” (sea women), who face extinction after a 1700 year old tradition. These strong women hold their breath for up to 3 minutes, diving to depths 50-60 meters wearing only a mask and a wetsuit.
With only a small shucker attached to their wrists, they catch and collect sea urchin, octopus, abalone, clams, oysters, conch and seaweed. The majority of these sea women are over the age of 50, many in their 70’s and 80’s.
Some of them can no longer walk without a cane or walker on land, but once they put on a wet suit and dive into the sea, they are magically rendered free and full of life.
In 2018, photographer Peter Ash Lee (
@peterashlee ) traveled to Jeju Island, where he had the privilege of photographing this extraordinary group of women. The results have now been put together in “The Last Mermaid”, his new photo book.
For centuries, these remarkable individuals fearlessly dove into the sea, harvesting seafood to sustain their families and preserve the cultural heritage of Jeju Island.
The intriguing connection between the Haenyeo and the semi-matriarchal family structure of Jeju Island is the central part of this story. Through generations, this island has been a stronghold of female strength and resilience, and the Haenyeo embody this powerful heritage. As primary breadwinners, they challenge traditional gender norms in a society where men historically held positions of power.
However, many of these indomitable old women, face the reality of being the last of their kind.
“I spoke at length with one particular Haenyeo, the youngest on the island, who referred to herself as ‘the last mermaid’—the demanding nature of their profession discourages new generations from embracing this ancient way of life.”
“Their unique way of life, wisdom, and traditions should not fade into oblivion but serve as a guiding light for future generations,” writes the protographer.
The book, printed in Korea, documenting the Haenyeo’s inspiring journey, is now available for pre-order at
@peterashlee ’s link bio.
#Gourmeffe #Haenyeo #SouthKorea #Jeju