Korea's traditional fishing practices have evolved in a way that respects and adapts to nature without bringing undue harm to the sea. This is a testament to our ancestors' experience of harmonizing with nature. Since 2015, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has been designating and managing various fishing cultures and activities as National Important Fishery Heritage in order to preserve and pass on these traditions and values. Here, I’d like to introduce you to some of Korea's diverse fishing cultures and folk materials.

First, we present you with the "Haenyeo Culture." Haenyeo are female divers who harvest seafood like shellfish and seaweed without the use of oxygen tanks. The Jeju Haenyeo fishery was the first to be designated as a National Important Fishery Heritage by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries. It is highly regarded for its eco-friendly fishing methods, community-centered culture, and the sharing of knowledge across generations. It is also inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

There are two items related to Haenyeo. The first is "Knife Used to Harvest Abalone," exhibited here as exhibit #5. This tool is used by Haenyeo to collect abalones and other seafood. It's designed to be securely attached to the hand with a rope or rubber band to prevent loss while diving.

Next is "Haenyeo’s Wet Suit," labeled as exhibit #6. Modern Haenyeo wear rubber wetsuits, but traditionally, they dived in clothes made of fabric. The traditional Haenyeo outfit consists of a top called 'muljeoksam' and pants called 'mulsojungi.' The 'mulsojungi' has slits on the side for easier wear and removal, especially when wet.