Jeju island, South Korea, is founded on matriarchy. During the 17th century, in a long period in which men were often away because of the wars, women endorsed their husbands’ role. Therefore, Haenyeo had to take care of the family, for example by diving to fish and shrimp. After the world wars, family roles did not change and women continued to dive. Korean government tried to stop this tradition that disagrees with Buddhism. Indeed, Confucius’ doctrine instaures men’s superiority on women, who should be limited to the care of domestic affairs. In this photo-series, Hyung S. Kim portrays the fabulous last Korean divers and restitutes to this tradition its unicity and strength.
