Fashion photographerPeter Ash Leecant recall the first time he heard of Jeju Islandshaenyeodivers.
“If youve been to Jeju Island, youve seen them around because theyre just working, Lee says.
Theyre all around the island.
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Once, he suggested to them using snorkels, which would make it easier to see underwater.
They said that it would be cheating, Lee recounts.
Their days start at dawn as they gather, have their blood pressure taken, and change into wetsuits.
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Then, its off for 10 to 12 hours of diving in temperatures that can drop to 50 Fahrenheit.
As the sun sets, divers return touting hundred-pound bags full of the days catch on their backs.
The ocean is almost more their natural habitat than land, Lee adds.
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
She writes: People often ask me if its not too hard.
In response, I say that I am happiest when I am diving.
When Lee started editing the book, he envisioned having two images per page that complemented each other.
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
So he went back to the drawing board and left a single photo on each two-page spread.
The absence of lengthy descriptions also leaves readers focused on the images, he explained.
Modern life has also presented the Haenyeo with another challenge.
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
My hope is to confirm that these different cultures and practices arent forgotten, Lee concludes.
These experiences and these ways of life make the world so unique, beautiful, and interesting.
The Last Mermaidis now availablehere.
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
Photo: Peter Ash Lee
