1. At its meeting in Addis Abada, Ethiopia on November 30, the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage formally inscribed the “culture of Jeju haenyeo (women divers)” on the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

2. The Intergovernmental Committee took note of the fact that “the culture of Jeju haenyeo” represents the unique cultural identity of Jeju Island and helps preserve environment in an eco-friendly and sustainable way; and that the community plays a role in passing down relevant knowledge and techniques.

3. With the “culture of Jeju haenyeo” listed as UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage of humanity, unique cultural heritage of Korea will once again be promoted in and draw renewed attention from the global community. Going forward, the ROK government will seek inscription of its unique and outstanding cultural heritages on the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity to preserve and share them with the world.


* unofficial translation