The Last Mermaid

“In December of 2018, I traveled to Jeju Island (South Korea), where I had the privilege of photographing an extraordinary group of women known as the Haenyeo. For over two thousand years, these remarkable individuals fearlessly dove into the sea, harvesting seafood to sustain their families and preserve the cultural heritage of Jeju Island.

The intriguing link between the Haenyeo and the semi-matriarchal family structure of Jeju Island is at the core 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 women, mostly now in their 60s and 70s, face the reality of being the last of their kind. I spoke at length with one particular Haenyeo, one of the youngest on the island, who referred to herself as “the last mermaid.” She hailed from a three-generation family of divers, and her mother still led their team of skilled Haenyeo. However, their legacy is at risk as the demanding nature of their profession discourages new generations from embracing this ancient way of life.” – Peter Ash Lee