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DIVE INTO THE DISAPPEARING WORLD OF HAENYEO

Date  East Garden Foyer

Date  27 October 2017 - 22 November 2017

In the 1960s, more than 30,000 Haenyeo dive off the shores of Jeju and Udo Island daily. Equipped with only a lead-weighted vest and goggles, the Haenyeo plunge into waters. While underwater, the Haenyeo hold their breath for two or three minutes while gathering clams, abalone or seaweed from the ocean floor. 

Today, the number of Haenyeo barely amount to 5,000, with two-thirds being over the age of 60. Due to the dangerous nature of the work, the Haenyeo portray a rich tradition that is slowly being eroded. As such, the Haenyeo have been recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage to be cherished. 

In this photography exhibition, dive into the disappearing world of Haenyeo and experience one of Korea's most celebrated traditions through the lens of Jose Jeuland, presented in both monochome and colour.