Haenyeo Diving Villages

해녀

Experience the UNESCO-recognized tradition of female free divers who have harvested seafood for centuries using only breath-holding techniques. Visitors can watch performances and learn about this unique cultural heritage in villages like Gujwa.

Things to do

• Watch Live Haenyeo Diving Performance — Observe skilled female divers demonstrate breath-hold diving techniques and seafood harvesting in designated performance areas during seasonal schedules.
• Visit Gujwa Haenyeo Culture Center — Learn about the history, traditions, and daily lives of haenyeo through exhibits, photographs, and interactive displays dedicated to this UNESCO-recognized practice.
• Haenyeo Museum Tour — Explore artifacts, traditional diving gear, and personal stories of haenyeo divers spanning centuries of cultural heritage in Jeju.
• Beach Walk and Observation — Stroll along coastal areas of Gujwa village where you may encounter haenyeo preparing equipment or returning with their daily catch during morning or afternoon dives.
• Participate in Cultural Workshop — Join hands-on sessions where visitors learn basic diving techniques, traditional knot-tying, or seafood preparation methods from experienced haenyeo instructors.
• Photography Tour of Haenyeo Village — Document the authentic daily life, fishing boats, and seaside architecture of traditional haenyeo communities with a local guide.

Food to try

• Fresh Sea Urchin (Uni) — Enjoy locally harvested sea urchin gathered by haenyeo divers, typically served raw with rice or in traditional bowls as a delicacy.
• Abalone (Jeonbok) Soup — Savor tender abalone hand-picked by female divers and simmered in a savory broth, a signature dish of coastal Jeju villages.
• Haenyeo's Catch Seafood Set (Haenyeo Donat) — Sample a variety of freshly caught seafood including octopus, clams, and seaweed prepared in multiple ways at local haenyeo restaurants.
• Seaweed (Gim and Miyeok) — Taste locally harvested seaweed varieties collected by divers, served as side dishes, soups, or dried snacks at village eateries.
• Spicy Octopus (Nakji Bokkeum) — Try fresh octopus caught by haenyeo and stir-fried with gochugaru and vegetables, a beloved Jeju coastal preparation.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Diving Schedules and Safety — Haenyeo typically dive during specific seasons and times of day; check local schedules and maintain safe distances from active diving areas to protect divers.
• Learn Basic Haenyeo Etiquette — Show respect to divers by avoiding loud noises near coastal areas, not touching their equipment, and asking permission before photographing performances or individuals.
• Support Local Haenyeo Economy — Purchase seafood and products directly from haenyeo cooperatives and local vendors to contribute meaningfully to the preservation of this endangered tradition.
• Age and Gender Significance — Understand that haenyeo diving is traditionally female-dominated; the practice carries deep cultural and historical significance tied to women's roles in Jeju society.