Jeju Haenyeo Festival 2026: UNESCO Heritage Celebrates Jeju Island's Brave Female Divers September 20–22
The volcanic island paradise of Jeju Island, South Korea celebrates its UNESCO-recognized cultural treasure as the Jeju Haenyeo Festival 2026 returns for its 18th edition from Friday, September 20 to Sunday, September 22, 2026, at the iconic Haenyeo Museum in Gujwa-eup, Jeju City and the nearby beach. This 3-day cultural celebration honors Jeju's legendary Haenyeo (female divers) who have been diving into the ocean without oxygen tanks for over 1,000 years, harvesting fresh seafood from depths up to 20 meters while supporting their families and preserving one of the world's most unique maritime traditions. The festival features street parades, traditional shamanic rites, Haenyeo Day ceremonies, swimming competitions, interactive cultural programs, and hands-on activities that let visitors immerse themselves in the powerful spirit and "sumbisori" (breathing sound) of Korea's brave diving women.
The Haenyeo culture was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016, recognizing the extraordinary contribution of Jeju's female divers to world cultural heritage. The 2026 festival builds on the success of the 17th edition in 2024, which attracted 35,000 visitors and featured programs designed to connect generations of Haenyeo while introducing their unique culture to international audiences. The festival runs under themes celebrating the Haenyeo's role as guardians of Jeju's coastal legacy and their ongoing fight to preserve marine ecosystems and traditional diving practices in the modern world.
UNESCO Heritage Female Divers
The Jeju Haenyeo Festival (called 제주 해녀축제 in Korean) is an annual cultural festival held on Jeju Island to celebrate and promote the unique culture of Haenyeo, the female divers who have been diving into the ocean without oxygen tanks for centuries to harvest seafood. The festival takes place at the Haenyeo Museum and nearby beach, where visitors can learn about Haenyeo culture through creative stage performances, hands-on activities, diving demonstrations, seafood tastings, and interactive cultural programs that showcase this UNESCO-recognized tradition.
"The festival aims to celebrate and internationally promote Jeju Island's unique Haenyeo culture while preserving the traditions for future generations."
Key facts about the Jeju Haenyeo Festival 2026:
- Dates 2026: Friday, September 20 to Sunday, September 22, 2026 (3 days total)
- Edition: 18th Jeju Haenyeo Festival (following the 17th edition in 2024)
- Venue: Haenyeo Museum, Gujwa-eup, Jeju City, and nearby beach (Sehwa Beach)
- Address: 26, Haenyeobangmulgwan-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do (제주특별자치도 제주시 구좌읍 해녀박물관길 26)
- Opening ceremony: September 21, 2026 (Haenyeo Day, official opening)
- Last year's attendance: 35,000 visitors (2024 edition)
- Contact: +82-64-710-3252, 1330 Travel Hotline (+82-2-1330 for Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
- UNESCO status: Haenyeo culture inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016
- Theme: Celebrating Haenyeo as guardians of Jeju's coastal legacy
Three Days Honoring Jeju's Diving Women
The 2026 Jeju Haenyeo Festival spans 3 days from Friday, September 20 to Sunday, September 22, 2026, with each day dedicated to a specific theme and set of activities. The festival builds on the successful format of previous years, with Day 1 as "Day of Communication," Day 2 as "Haenyeo Day," and Day 3 as "Together Day."
Festival Schedule:
September 20, 2026 (Friday) - "Day of Communication":
- September 20: Festival officially begins (Day of Communication)
- Exchange events: Events between Jeju Haenyeo and Haenyeo from other regions (Haenyeo who originated from Jeju)
- Inaugural general meeting: National Haenyeo Association's first general meeting
- Cultural exchange: Haenyeo from different regions share traditions and experiences
- Networking: Building connections among Haenyeo communities across Korea
September 21, 2026 (Saturday) - "Haenyeo Day":
- September 21: Official opening ceremony with street parade
- Haenyeo Day ceremony: Commemorative ceremony celebrating Haenyeo culture
- Haenyeo Taewak Swimming Competition: Divers perform muljil (diving into the sea to collect seafood)
- Active participation: Programs in which Haenyeo themselves actively participate and enjoy
- Shamanic rites: Traditional Chilmeoridang Yeongdeunggut ceremony by the Chilmeoridang Yeongdeunggut Preservation Society
- Cultural performances: Creative stage performances blending traditional and modern Haenyeo culture
September 22, 2026 (Sunday) - "Together Day":
- September 22: Final day with programs designed for residents and tourists to enjoy together
- Interactive programs: Hands-on activities for visitors to experience Haenyeo culture
- Haenyeo cultural performances: Traditional music, dance, and diving demonstrations
- Exhibitions: Museum exhibits showcasing Haenyeo history and culture
- Seafood tastings: Fresh seafood available at the local Suhyup branch
- Photography exhibit: Display of Haenyeo photographs and cultural documentation
- Parade: Festival parade celebrating Haenyeo heritage
"The Haenyeo Taewak Swimming Competition is the festival's centerpiece, where divers demonstrate their incredible skills by performing muljil."
UNESCO Heritage Guardians of the Ocean Depths
The Haenyeo (해녀, also spelled "heanyeo") are Jeju Island's female divers who have been diving into the ocean without oxygen tanks for over 1,000 years, harvesting fresh seafood from the depths of the sea. These remarkable women dive to depths of up to 20 meters while holding their breath, collecting abalone, sea urchins, octopus, and other marine life that supports their families and the island's economy.
Key facts about Haenyeo:
- Diving depth: Up to 20 meters without oxygen tanks
- Diving tradition: Over 1,000 years of continuous practice
- UNESCO status: Inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016
- Number of Haenyeo: Approximately 4,000 active Haenyeo today (down from over 20,000 in the 1960s)
- Average age: Haenyeo are typically 60+ years old, with many diving into their 80s and 90s
- Diving gear: Traditional black wetsuits, diving goggles, safety buoys, and harvesting knives
- Sumbisori: The distinctive breathing sound Haenyeo make when surfacing, symbolizing their spirit
- Economic role: Haenyeo support their households and contribute significantly to Jeju's economy
- Cultural significance: Represent women's empowerment, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation
"The Haenyeo are known as the 'guardians of Jeju's coastal legacy' because of their critical role in preserving marine ecosystems and traditional diving practices."
Jeju Island's Dedicated Museum Celebrating Female Divers
The Jeju Haenyeo Museum is the festival's main venue and Korea's only museum dedicated to the culture of Jeju's female divers. The museum exhibits the history of Haenyeo culture dating back to ancient times, with all exhibits donated by the Haenyeo themselves. The museum even features a Haenyeo library and interactive displays that showcase the unique maritime heritage of Jeju Island.
Key facts about the venue:
- Location: Haenyeo Museum, Gujwa-eup, Jeju City, Jeju Island
- Address: 26, Haenyeobangmulgwan-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do (제주특별자치도 제주시 구좌읍 해녀박물관길 26)
- Nearby venue: Sehwa Beach (activities at nearby beach)
- Type: Only museum in Korea dedicated to Haenyeo culture
- Exhibits: History of Haenyeo culture, diving equipment, traditional tools, photographs, and cultural artifacts
- All exhibits donated: Every item in the museum was donated by Haenyeo themselves
- Haenyeo library: Special collection of books and documents about Haenyeo culture
- Bus stop: Haenyeo Museum Entrance Bus Stop (Bus No. 201, 261)
Getting to Jeju Island, Where to Stay, and When to Book
Getting to Jeju Island:
- Jeju International Airport (CJU) is the main gateway, with direct flights from Seoul (Kimpo, Incheon), Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and many other South Korean cities (flight time: 50–70 minutes)
- International flights from Tokyo, Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Taipei, Bangkok, and other Asian cities
- The airport is about 45–60 minutes from Haenyeo Museum in Gujwa-eup
- Taxis, buses, and rental cars are available from the airport to Gujwa-eup
Where to Stay During Jeju Haenyeo Festival 2026:
Gujwa-eup area (closest to venue):
- Gujwa-eup hotels: Small hotels and guesthouses within 10 minutes of Haenyeo Museum
- Sehwa Port: Beachfront accommodations near the festival venue
Jeju City (administrative center):
- Jeju City hotels: Wide range of accommodations from budget to luxury, 45–60 minutes from venue
- Downtown Jeju: Central location with shopping, dining, and transport options
- Near airport: Convenient for flight connections, 50 minutes from venue
Other areas:
- Seogwipo: Southern Jeju with luxury resorts, 1.5 hours from venue
- Seongsan Ilchulbo: Sunrise Peak area with coastal hotels, 30 minutes from venue
- Hallasan area: Mountain region with nature resorts, 1 hour from venue
Best Areas to Stay:
- Gujwa-eup: Closest to the festival venue, with local hotels and easy access to Haenyeo Museum
- Jeju City: Central location with wide accommodation options and transport connections
- Seongsan: Close to venue with scenic coastal views and sunrise activities
Why September 2026 Is Worth the Visit
The Jeju Haenyeo Festival is just one of many reasons to visit Jeju Island in September 2026. The volcanic island offers year-round attractions and activities:
- Jeju Fire Festival: March 9–14, 2026, Saebyeol Oreum (6-day spectacular fire celebration)
- Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival: April 4–6, 2026, Jeju Island (celebrating indigenous cherry blossoms with fireworks)
- Buckwheat Flower Festival: September 2026, Boromwat Buckwheat Fields (silver grass fields and autumn flowers)
- Tamna Cultural Festival: October 2026, Jeju Island (celebrating ancient Tamna kingdom)
- Jeju Horse Festival: October 2026, Jeju Island (traditional horse racing and cultural events)
- Mount Hallasan: Highest mountain in South Korea (1,950 meters) with hiking trails and panoramic views
- Manjanggul Cave: UNESCO-listed lava tunnel cave system, one of the world's longest
- Seongsan Ilchulbo: Sunrise Peak, UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic coastal cliffs
- Olle Trail: 424-kilometer circumferential hiking trail around Jeju Island
- Jeju National Museum: Cultural history and artifacts from Jeju's ancient Tamna kingdom
"September is an ideal time to visit Jeju Island, with mild weather, fewer crowds than peak summer season, and the beginning of autumn with silver grass fields and buckwheat flowers."
A Festival That Defines Jeju's Maritime Soul
The Jeju Haenyeo Festival 2026 is Jeju Island's most important cultural celebration honoring its UNESCO-recognized female divers, returning from Friday, September 20 to Sunday, September 22, 2026, at the Haenyeo Museum in Gujwa-eup, Jeju City and nearby beach, marking the 18th edition of this annual festival. This 3-day cultural celebration features Day of Communication (September 20) with Haenyeo exchange events, Haenyeo Day (September 21) with the official opening ceremony, street parade, Haenyeo Taewak Swimming Competition, and traditional shamanic rites, and Together Day (September 22) with interactive programs for residents and tourists to enjoy together.
The festival celebrates the Haenyeo, Jeju's legendary female divers who have dived into the ocean without oxygen tanks for over 1,000 years to depths of up to 20 meters, harvesting fresh seafood while supporting their families and preserving one of the world's most unique maritime traditions. The Haenyeo culture was inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016, and last year's 17th edition attracted 35,000 visitors who came to witness the incredible strength, endurance, and spirit of these brave diving women.
Book your trip to Jeju Island for September 20–22, 2026, to experience one of Korea's most meaningful cultural festivals. Arrive early for the street parade on Haenyeo Day (September 21), witness the Haenyeo Taewak Swimming Competition where divers perform traditional muljil, participate in interactive cultural programs, sample fresh seafood from local vendors, and explore the Haenyeo Museum exhibits showcasing centuries of diving heritage. The festival kicks off on September 20 and closes on September 22, inviting you to be part of Jeju Island's most iconic celebration of female divers at the Haenyeo Museum in Gujwa-eup.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Jeju Haenyeo Festival 2026?
The Jeju Haenyeo Festival 2026 runs from Friday, September 20 to Sunday, September 22, 2026, a 3-day cultural celebration.
Where is the Jeju Haenyeo Festival 2026 held?
The festival is held at the Haenyeo Museum, Gujwa-eup, Jeju City, and nearby Sehwa Beach on Jeju Island.
Who are the Haenyeo?
The Haenyeo are Jeju Island's legendary female divers who have dived into the ocean without oxygen tanks for over 1,000 years, harvesting seafood from depths up to 20 meters. Their culture was inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016.
What events are included in the Jeju Haenyeo Festival?
Events include:
- Day of Communication (September 20): Haenyeo exchange events and National Haenyeo Association meeting
- Haenyeo Day (September 21): Street parade, commemorative ceremony, Haenyeo Taewak Swimming Competition, muljil diving demonstrations, shamanic rites
- Together Day (September 22): Interactive programs, cultural performances, exhibitions, seafood tastings, photography exhibit
How do I get to Jeju Island for the Haenyeo Festival?
Fly to Jeju International Airport (CJU), about 45–60 minutes from Haenyeo Museum. Direct flights are available from Seoul, Busan, and many Asian cities. Taxis, buses (No. 201, 261), and rental cars are available from the airport.
What was last year's attendance for the Jeju Haenyeo Festival?
The 17th Jeju Haenyeo Festival in 2024 attracted 35,000 visitors, making it one of Jeju's most popular cultural festivals.
Verified Information at a Glance
- Event: Jeju Haenyeo Festival 2026 (18th Jeju Haenyeo Festival, 제주 해녀축제)
- Category: Cultural Festival / UNESCO Heritage Event / Maritime Tradition / Female Diver Celebration
- Dates: Friday, September 20 to Sunday, September 22, 2026 (3 days total)
- Edition: 18th Jeju Haenyeo Festival (following 17th edition in 2024)
- Day 1: September 20, 2026 (Friday) - "Day of Communication"
- Day 2: September 21, 2026 (Saturday) - "Haenyeo Day" (official opening)
- Day 3: September 22, 2026 (Sunday) - "Together Day"
- Venue: Haenyeo Museum, Gujwa-eup, Jeju City, Jeju Island
- Secondary Venue: Sehwa Beach (nearby beach)
- Address: 26, Haenyeobangmulgwan-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do (제주특별자치도 제주시 구좌읍 해녀박물관길 26)
- Contact: +82-64-710-3252, 1330 Travel Hotline (+82-2-1330 for Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
- UNESCO Status: Haenyeo culture inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016
- Last Year's Attendance: 35,000 visitors (17th edition, 2024)
- Key Events:
- Day of Communication: Haenyeo exchange events, National Haenyeo Association inaugural meeting
- Haenyeo Day: Street parade, Haenyeo Day ceremony, Haenyeo Taewak Swimming Competition, muljil diving demonstrations, Chilmeoridang Yeongdeunggut shamanic rites
- Together Day: Interactive programs, cultural performances, exhibitions, seafood tastings, photography exhibit
- Haenyeo Facts: Diving depth up to 20 meters without oxygen tanks, over 1,000 years of tradition, approximately 4,000 active Haenyeo today, average age 60+ years
- Theme: Celebrating Haenyeo as guardians of Jeju's coastal legacy, "Mother's sumbisori, in the hearts of people all over the world"
- Gateway Airport: Jeju International Airport (CJU), 45–60 minutes from venue
- Bus Access: Bus No. 201, 261 to Haenyeo Museum Entrance Bus Stop
- Best Areas to Stay: Gujwa-eup, Jeju City, Seongsan Ilchulbo
- Nearby Events 2026: Jeju Fire Festival (March 9–14), Buckwheat Flower Festival (September)
