Yu YongYe became a photographer after studying design. Since 2012, she has lived on Gapado Island, off Jeju, discovering the value of anthropologically recording haenyeo diver and island culture and producing an ongoing series of records and photographic works.
By establishing direct relationships between islands, island dwellers and the sea, Yu observes the characteristics and changes of the natural life force inherent in humans. Through embodied cognition, she captures the phenomena as photographers and installation video documentaries. In 2019, she officially became a new female diver, called Haenyeo, on Gappado Island.
:: Haenyeo (also spelled haenyo) (Hangul: 해녀; lit. sea women) are female divers in the Korean province of Jeju. Known for their independent spirit, iron will and determination, the haenyeo are representative of the semi-matriarchal family structure of Jeju.
