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. These women are called “Uncles” rather than Aunts, have a deep culture of collectivism, and are the breadwinners of their families. They have, for centuries, been using eco-friendly methods to promote environmental sustainability. From an anthropological, feminist and environmental perspective, the project captures the last generation of this rare matriarchal society through poetic visual stories of the women, their collective shamanistic rituals, and songs of the sea.

Chang-Jin Lee is a Korean-born director based in New York City, and an internationally renowned, award-winning visual artist. She has shown at museums and galleries in Europe, Asia, and across the US, and her films and art projects have been featured in The NY Times, Art Asia Pacific, Dazed & Confused, The LA Times, Tokyo FM, NPR, and The BBC.