Haenyeo Museum
Discover the legacy of Jeju's fearless female divers, the Haenyeo, through compelling exhibits and personal stories.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Haenyeo Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the legacy of Jeju's fearless female divers, the Haenyeo, through compelling exhibits and personal stories.
"A must-see on Jeju, offering a whole new perspective and deep respect for these amazing women."
🎥 Watch the Videos
Don't skip the video exhibits; they provide crucial context and personal stories that enrich your understanding.
💧 Bring a Water Bottle
There's a convenient refillable water purifying station, making it easy to stay hydrated.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Haenyeo Interviews
Hear firsthand accounts from these remarkable women, sharing their challenging lives and deep connection to the sea.

Diving Gear Evolution
See the evolution of diving equipment, from thin cotton suits to modern gear, highlighting the Haenyeo's incredible endurance.
Sculpture Garden
An outdoor space featuring art inspired by the Haenyeo, offering a peaceful reflection on their strength and spirit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Haenyeo Legacy
Timing Your Visit for Demonstrations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎥 Watch the Videos
Don't skip the video exhibits; they provide crucial context and personal stories that enrich your understanding.
💧 Bring a Water Bottle
There's a convenient refillable water purifying station, making it easy to stay hydrated.
🚶♀️ Explore the Coast
Consider visiting a restaurant down the coast after your museum visit for a full experience.
⏳ Allow an Hour
You can comfortably explore the museum and its exhibits in about an hour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎥 Watch the Videos
Don't skip the video exhibits; they provide crucial context and personal stories that enrich your understanding.
💧 Bring a Water Bottle
There's a convenient refillable water purifying station, making it easy to stay hydrated.
🚶♀️ Explore the Coast
Consider visiting a restaurant down the coast after your museum visit for a full experience.
⏳ Allow an Hour
You can comfortably explore the museum and its exhibits in about an hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Haenyeo Museum for its fascinating insights into the lives of Jeju's remarkable female divers. The personal stories and historical context are highly appreciated, offering a unique perspective on Korean culture and resilience. While some wish for more interactive elements, the low entrance fee and the opportunity to learn about these extraordinary women make it a highly recommended stop.
"Fascinating museum about the Haenyeo, amazing women. We particularly liked the videos of the interviews with the women, what lives they led! Would definitely recommend visiting their restaurant down the coast while in this area of the Island."
Harriet
"Learning about the Haenyeo was so interesting. Great respect for them and their part in Korean history. Also enjoyed watching their live demonstration. Amazing women."
Sally Johnson
"I enjoyed our visit here. The museum was nicely laid out, with good explanations and with interesting exhibits. I learned a lot. Before the 1970´s they dived in thin cotton outfits, which is just nuts to see. It’s amazing how these women lived. Please come and support this museum. There is a refillable water purifying station too- just lovely! ☺️"
Jean Y
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Haenyeo Museum by taking a bus from Jeju City. Several local bus routes service the area. It's advisable to check real-time bus schedules upon arrival in Jeju, as routes and times can vary.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available at the Haenyeo Museum, which is convenient if you are traveling by car.
Taxis are readily available on Jeju Island and can take you directly to the Haenyeo Museum. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport.
Many visitors find a combination of buses and taxis efficient for exploring Jeju. Renting a car is also a popular option for greater flexibility.
The museum is located in a scenic coastal area of Jeju, and visitors often combine their visit with exploring nearby beaches or other natural attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the Haenyeo Museum is very low, making it an affordable and worthwhile visit.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Haenyeo Museum. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official museum website or local listings closer to your visit date.
Yes, the museum's exhibits are informative and engaging for visitors of all ages, offering a broad understanding of the Haenyeo culture.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is typically available at the ticket counter or on the museum's official website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find exhibits detailing the history, tools, and daily lives of the Haenyeo, including interviews and displays of their traditional diving gear.
Live demonstrations by the Haenyeo sometimes occur, but they are often weather-dependent and not scheduled daily. It's best to inquire locally about potential timings.
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the museum's exhibits and learning about the Haenyeo.
The museum is generally well-designed, but it's always a good idea to contact them directly for specific accessibility information regarding ramps or elevators.
Photography policies can vary. It's usually permitted in most areas, but it's best to look for signage or ask staff if you're unsure, especially regarding video recording.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself might have limited food options, there are often restaurants and cafes located nearby, especially down the coast.
Given the Haenyeo's connection to the sea, you can expect fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes in the restaurants in the vicinity.
Yes, visitors often recommend visiting a restaurant down the coast after the museum for a complete local experience.
Dining options can vary. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff at local restaurants for specific dietary accommodations.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museum exhibition halls. However, there is a water refill station available.
📸 📸 Photography
The sculpture garden offers unique photo opportunities, as do the exhibits showcasing the Haenyeo's gear and historical context.
If you are lucky enough to witness a live demonstration, be respectful of the divers and their work. Check for any specific photography guidelines in place.
While generally allowed, it's wise to look for signs indicating 'no photography' areas, especially for specific artifacts or displays.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for the sculpture garden and good low-light performance for indoor exhibits.
The museum's coastal location offers scenic views, and the sculpture garden provides artistic backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum provides a wealth of information, consider supplementing the visit with a trip to a nearby beach or a scenic coastal drive to make the experience more engaging for younger visitors. The idea of strong women diving in the sea can be particularly inspiring for children.
🌍 Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond the museum, exploring other cultural sites on Jeju Island, such as traditional villages or historical temples, will provide a broader understanding of Korean heritage. The Haenyeo represent a powerful narrative of female empowerment and a sustainable relationship with nature.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Engaging with the video interviews and exhibits can provide a deep sense of connection to the Haenyeo's lives, even when traveling alone. The nearby coastal areas also offer peaceful spots for reflection after your museum visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Spirit of the Haenyeo
The Haenyeo Museum serves as a vital repository of their history and traditions. It goes beyond mere artifacts, offering deeply personal insights through interviews and multimedia presentations that highlight the challenges and triumphs of their lives. Visitors often express profound respect and admiration after learning about their resilience and their significant contribution to Jeju's economy and cultural identity.
Witnessing the Haenyeo in action, if possible, is a truly unforgettable experience. Their dedication and connection to the sea are palpable, offering a glimpse into a way of life that is increasingly rare in the modern world. The museum provides essential context for appreciating this extraordinary cultural heritage.
Exploring Jeju's Coastal Culture
Beyond the museum, exploring the local coastline is highly recommended. Many visitors suggest visiting restaurants in the vicinity to savor the fresh seafood that the Haenyeo help provide. This offers a tangible connection to the culture and a delicious way to support the local community.
Jeju Island itself is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, from volcanic craters to beautiful beaches. Combining a visit to the Haenyeo Museum with explorations of these natural wonders provides a comprehensive experience of what makes Jeju so special.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit