The Jeju Haenyeo Museum is Korea's only museum dedicated to the island's women free divers.
Key takeaways
The Jeju Haenyeo Museum is the best place to discover the history, traditions, and daily lives of Jeju's legendary women free divers. Located on the northeastern coast of Jeju Island, the museum preserves the remarkable cultural heritage of the Haenyeo through interactive exhibitions, historical artifacts, multimedia displays, and educational programs.
Visitors can explore how Haenyeo lived, worked, and contributed to Jeju's society while learning about their unique diving techniques, equipment, and sustainable relationship with the sea.
For anyone interested in Korean culture, the Jeju Haenyeo Museum is considered an essential destination.
Opened in 2006, the museum showcases the complete story of the Haenyeo—from their historical origins to their recognition as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Indoor and outdoor exhibition areas feature:
Introduces the origins and historical development of Jeju's women divers.
Displays traditional and modern diving equipment used throughout different periods.
Explains the marine resources harvested by the Haenyeo and the importance of sustainable harvesting.
Presents the story behind the UNESCO recognition and international significance of Haenyeo culture.
Features traditional stone shelters (Bulteok), statues, boats, and reconstructed coastal working environments.
Some visitors may qualify for discounted or free admission under local regulations.
Visitors are encouraged to confirm current operating hours before traveling.
After visiting the museum, travelers can easily explore:
These attractions can comfortably be combined into a full-day itinerary.
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