The intriguing island of Jeju, S. Korea

Before I describe these images, first let me explain why I have them. My adventure in South Korea started in Jeju Island in September 2012. That's when my boyfriend at the time and I decided to sell the cars, house, all of our belongings in the US, quit our jobs and move abroad. Anywhere. Literally! So, he got a job offer in Jeju, an island about which we knew nothing. When we googled it, the images and articles that came up described Jeju as the "Hawaii of Asia." Great marketing scheme, because we were sold! We moved there 2 weeks after the googling day. At this point, my entire belongings on this earth were shrank down to 2 duffel bags which I dragged with me all the way to the end of the world. I never decide about important decisions in my life so quickly and efficiently. I would have taken months to ponder on all the aspects of such a move and after all that analysis, I would have probably determined that it is too risky and difficult, therefore I would have missed on such a beautiful 9 month adventure that I now cherish so much. But luckily not my partner. Now moving abroad every 2 years has become a part of our life, one that does not scare me, one that has opened up my mind and cracked my heart open, one that I look forward to so much for growth and adventure.

So that's how it all started on Jeju :) Now, truth is Jeju is a spectacular island. So beautiful, unique and a true cultural experience. The isolation of the island in the Pacific Ocean has really protected its charm, traditions and deep cultural values. It is also known as the Island of Rocks, Women and Wind.

These pictures are about the women of Jeju. Jeju has a semi-matriarchal family structure, therefore the women play a very important role; a long time ago, the men would be gone for months at a time fishing in the ocean (and many would not make it back due to the rough sea conditions), so the island was comprised mostly of women, who did most of the jobs. And they were tough jobs: the terrain of the island is very difficult to work with because it is spattered with volcanic rocks. Preparing planting grounds for agriculture is extremely difficult, not only because the numerous volcanic rocks need to be dug out and removed, but also to protect the parcels from heavy winds, stone walls need to be built all around them...which, the women did.

One of the most important jobs on the island was (and still is) that of the Haenyeo women. These are some pretty awesome human beings! Haenyeo are women divers, known for their independent spirit, iron will and determination. Because so many families relied on the haenyeo for the majority of their income, they became the head of the household. What a sight to see these women in action (they are typically quite old), diving to catch seafood in the cold winter waters of Korea. I have no pictures of them unfortunately. With the introduction of wetsuits, haenyeo found they could stay in the water for five to six hours at a time, even during the winter. With each dive, haenyeo plunge up to 30 meters deep and can hold their breath for over three minutes. Their harvests consist of abalone, conch, octopus, sea urchins, brown alga, oysters, sea slugs etc.

These pictures were taken on a spring day, on the Jongmeori Coast of Jeju and the women (who are not haenyeo) are selling haenyeo's fresh catch. The coast is very beautiful and dramatic, with plenty of golden sand beaches and incredible Buddhist temples nestled on the edge of the mountains. A worthwhile visit when in Jeju.

Ah Jeju, such a fascinating place you are!