In The Last of the Sea Women, a remarkable group of elderly female divers, known as the haenyeo, face down formidable challenges threatening their way of life. Often referred to as “real-life mermaids,” these women of South Korea’s Jeju Island have, for centuries, braved the depths of the ocean without oxygen tanks to harvest seafood, a tradition that has sustained their community for generations.
However, with most haenyeo now in their 60s, 70s, and 80s, their ancient practice is on the brink of extinction. Yet, these resilient grandmothers, known for their strength, humor, and determination, are not giving up. With the support of a younger generation, who are leveraging the power of social media to bring global attention to their plight, the haenyeo are fighting to preserve their unique way of life.
The Last of the Sea Women” will premiere globally on Apple TV+ on October 11, 2024
The documentary, directed by Sue Kim, offers a deep dive into the lives of these formidable women. It explores the tight-knit bonds of friendship, their remarkable independence, and the sense of empowerment that fuels their battle to protect their ancestral heritage and the ocean they hold dear. Through intimate storytelling, The Last of the Sea Women becomes a tale of resilience, tradition, and the power of community, while also inspiring a new generation of activists to join the fight.
Produced by Sue Kim and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai, through her production company Extracurricular Productions, alongside Erika Kennair, the documentary showcases the universal struggle to maintain cultural identity in the face of modernity and environmental challenges. Executive producers Nicole Stott, Emily Osborne, Harry Go, and Marissa Torres Ericson, in partnership with A24, add further weight to this poignant and visually stunning film.
With The Last of the Sea Women, Kim captures not only the beauty of Jeju Island and its surrounding ocean but also the indomitable spirit of the women who have dedicated their lives to it. This documentary offers a powerful message of courage, community, and hope for a future where ancient traditions and modern advocacy can coexist.
Raymond Melendez
