by KIKE CALVO
The Haenyeo, or “Women of the Sea,” are a remarkable community of free-diving women from Jeju Island, South Korea. For generations, they have harvested marine life using traditional techniques and knowledge, prioritizing sustainability and community. As they age, fewer young divers are continuing this cultural legacy, recognized by UNESCO for its heritage significance.
+ anthropology, Blog, Curiosities, Ethnographic, Focus, Geographical Location, Indigenous Communities, South Korea
by KIKE CALVO
On Jeju Island in South Korea, the Haenyeo, or “sea women,” are remarkable elderly divers harvesting seafood at great depths without oxygen tanks. This tradition is fading, with most active divers in their 60s to 80s, and fewer young women learning the skill. Research led by Dr. Melissa Ilardo has found that Haenyeo possess unique genetic traits linked to blood pressure regulation, possibly aiding their diving endurance. Their adaptations demonstrate an interplay of genetics and years of training. As their numbers decline, understanding their biology may lead to advancements in treating hypertension, highlighting the significance of their cultural legacy.
