Reflection

Haenyeo, meaning "sea women" in Korean, are traditional female divers from Jeju Island. Their culture, rooted in nature and passed down since the 17th century, was inscribed in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2016. Despite this recognition, rapid urbanization has caused a decline in young Haenyeo, with most divers now over 80 years old. Ironically, while many shops in Jeju promote direct trade with Haenyeo for marketing, the actual culture is fading. This project began with a desire to revisit and reinterpret this disappearing heritage. I explored how women of past generations lived in harmony with the sea—not as conquerors, but as partners in survival. Inspired by traditional diving gear, I reimagined the garments using scuba fabrics, dotted patterns worn by Jeju’s elderly women, and net-like ropes reflecting the tension and resilience in their daily lives. Clothing, as a medium, offers both visual storytelling and emotional connection. Through design, I wanted to embody the strength, wisdom, and dignity of Haenyeo culture. This project is a tribute to generational knowledge and a reminder that preserving nature also means preserving the people who lived in balance with it. By carrying their stories on the body, I hope to keep their legacy alive—not just in memory, but in motion.