Breathing Underwater

About This Movie

Breathing Underwater takes you deep into the heart of Jeju Province, where the women divers, or haenyeo, continue their age-old tradition of free diving. Koh Hee-young captures a rhythm that's almost meditative; the women plunge into depths of 10 to 20 meters, bringing a timelessness to their work. The film isn’t just about the dives, though. It's about resilience, survival, and connection to the sea. You can feel the weight of the water, the strength in their movements, and the quiet strength of their community. The pacing feels natural, unhurried, allowing you to sit with the atmosphere, the sounds of waves, and the women sharing their stories and experiences. Such a raw, intimate portrayal stands out – you really get a sense of what it means to live off the ocean's bounty without modern trappings.

Features traditional free diving techniques.Intimate storytelling with minimal narration.Emphasis on community and environmental connection.