Eunji Lee

Currently, the sea of Jeju suffers not only from ocean warming but also from numerous other problems caused by overtourism. Ocean warming and overtourism are suspected factors that contribute to a phenomenon called ‘Whiting Event’, which occurs when calcium carbonate (lime powder) that has dissolved in seawater precipitates and sticks to the seafloor, or rocks, causing them to whiten. As a result, the sea is becoming an environment where seaweed cannot grow, which threatens seafood harvesting and the livelihood of the Haenyeos. 

Jeju Island, located on the southernmost part of Korea, is a paradise island that many Koreans adore. Famous for its breath-taking nature, delicious food, and rich culture, more than 13 million tourists visit the island every year. Jeju is also known for Haenyeo, a profession of female divers that harvest sea life for a living. Dreaming of becoming a Haenyeo herself, Eunji Lee visits Jeju for her research on Haenyeo culture, and learns about the destruction of nature caused by human ignorance and short-sighted greed.