Haenyeo · Simbang: Korean Sea Women & Shamans

“Haenyeo · Simbang: Korean Sea Women & Shamans” explores the 1500 year old tradition of free-diving women of Jeju island, known for their independent spirit, iron will, and fierce determination. It captures the last generation of this unique matriarchal society through poetic visual stories of the women, shamanistic rituals, and songs of the sea.

It attempts to preserve the memory of the women and their traditions, to encourage respect for this long standing female-centered society, to create cultural appreciation and understanding for these stewards of the ocean, and to let them serve as a guide and inspiration to us all.