The Ocean Calls: Discovering the Untold Haenyeo Mermaid Story

In the deep blue waters surrounding the coastal villages of Jeju Island in South Korea, a remarkable tale unfolds. The ocean calls out to a special group of women, known as the Haenyeo, who dive fearlessly into the depths to harvest seafood. These women embody the strength and resilience of mermaids, and their story is one of tradition, courage, and connection to the sea.

For centuries, the Haenyeo have been diving into the treacherous waters, equipped with only a pair of goggles, a weight belt, and a sharp harpoon. They dive without the aid of modern diving equipment, relying solely on their knowledge and experience. It is believed that their connection to the ocean is so strong that they possess the ability to communicate with its creatures, much like the legendary mermaids of folklore.

Legend has it that the Haenyeo are descendants of the mermaids themselves, born out of the love between a fisherman and a mermaid. Their unique ability to descend deep into the ocean and resurface with a bountiful catch is said to be inherited from their mythical ancestors. Like mermaids, they appear to be half-human, half-fish, with their graceful swimming and remarkable breath-holding capabilities.

The Ocean Calls: A Haenyeo Mermaid Story

by Tina Cho (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20874 KB
Print length	:	23 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

While the Haenyeo reflect the essence of mermaids, their story goes beyond folklore. It is a tale of female empowerment and resilience in a male-dominated world. Traditionally, the women of Jeju Island took on the role of breadwinners, diving to provide for their families while the men stayed on land. This unusual gender role reversal challenges conventional societal norms and highlights the strength and independence of these women.

But being a Haenyeo is not for the faint of heart. The sea can be harsh and unpredictable, with fierce waves and treacherous currents. The women face constant danger and risk their lives every time they submerge themselves into the deep unknown. Yet, they persist, forging a deep bond with the ocean and braving its challenges.

The Haenyeo mermaids have also played a significant role in Jeju Island's culture and economy. Their unique diving skills have brought tremendous prosperity to the island, as their catch is highly sought after both locally and abroad. Their harvest primarily consists of seafood delicacies like abalone, sea urchins, and octopus, which are considered nutritious and of superior quality due to the Haenyeo's sustainable harvesting practices.

However, the Haenyeo tradition faces challenges in the modern world. Today, the average age of Haenyeo is steadily increasing, and younger generations are less inclined to follow in their footsteps. The dangers and uncertainties of the sea, coupled with a desire for different livelihoods, have led to a decline in the number of Haenyeo.

Efforts are being made to preserve and promote the Haenyeo culture, making sure that their story continues to be heard. Various organizations are providing support and resources to encourage younger women to become Haenyeo, highlighting the importance of their role in sustaining both the local economy and the unique traditions of Jeju Island.

You may be wondering, how can you connect with this mesmerizing mermaid story? Jeju Island offers immersive experiences for visitors, allowing them to witness the Haenyeo in action. Snorkeling trips, guided tours, and cultural festivals provide a glimpse into the lives of these extraordinary women and the world beneath the waves.

So, dive into the untold story of the Haenyeo mermaids, and allow the ocean's call to take you on a journey of discovery. Explore the depths of their bravery, the power of their traditions, and the enchanting connection between these women and the sea. The Haenyeo are the real-life mermaids of Jeju Island, and their story will captivate your heart and imagination.

The Ocean Calls: A Haenyeo Mermaid Story

by Tina Cho (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20874 KB
Print length	:	23 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

A breathtaking picture book featuring a Korean girl and her haenyeo (free diving) grandmother about intergenerational bonds, finding courage in the face of fear, and connecting with our natural world.

Dayeon wants to be a haenyeo just like Grandma. The haenyeo dive off the coast of Jeju Island to pluck treasures from the sea--generations of Korean women have done so for centuries. To Dayeon, the haenyeo are as strong and graceful as mermaids. To give her strength, Dayeon eats Grandma's abalone porridge. She practices holding her breath while they do the dishes. And when Grandma suits up for her next dive, Dayeon grabs her suit, flippers, and goggles. A scary memory of the sea keeps Dayeon clinging to the shore, but with Grandma's guidance, Dayeon comes to appreciate the ocean's many gifts.

Tina Cho's The Ocean Calls, with luminous illustrations by muralist Jess X. Snow, is a classic in the making.