Humans of Jeju

Lee Duckjong is an architect who seeks to create spaces that breathe with the natural rhythms of Jeju. After starting his career in Seoul, his first project in Aewol led him to settle on the island, where he now runs ARC Studio and focuses on small-scale works such as houses, tea rooms, and pavilions. His time studying sculpture and painting in London shifted his view of architecture toward an artistic pursuit—one that creates meaning, not just form. He currently teaches architecture at Jeju University and organizes workshops through the Itami Jun Foundation, bridging design and community. Valuing research, he draws inspiration from historic buildings and unbuilt plans, reinterpreting them with modern materials and sensibilities. His work continues to grow as an architectural response rooted in Jeju, connecting people, nature, and time.

Kim Younjin is a young haenyeo who graduated from Hansupul Haenyeo School in 2021 and now dives in Gueom, a coastal village in Aewol, Jeju. Drawn to a life closely connected to the sea, she chose the path of a haenyeo and continues to train herself through the honest and humbling lessons the ocean provides. As one of six haenyeos in Gueom, she faces the rough waves daily, deepening her bond with the sea through each dive. She is an active member of HAECHO, a young haenyeo group dedicated to marine conservation and cultural outreach. Kim has represented haenyeo culture at international events, such as the 2024 Sharjah Heritage Days in the UAE, and shared her experiences at the Jeju Environment Talk Concert. She also serves as a translator for the monthly Haenyeo Bulteok Talk Show at the Haenyeo Museum. Today, she continues her journey with the sea, hoping to share the sustainable values of haenyeo culture with the world.

Hyun Hyeyeon is a Korean traditional dancer currently performing with the Jeju Special Self-Governing Provincial Dance Company. After studying and working in Seoul, she returned to her hometown Jeju to spend more time with her parents. For her, dance became as natural as daily routines, and over time, her focus shifted from technical perfection to creating movement that resonates with space and atmosphere. Living in Jeju, she began exploring how traditional dance could harmonize with nature and local culture. One example is her project “Season Warehouse,” a heartfelt performance and photo exhibition set in her family’s tangerine storage. She also runs a YouTube channel called “Dance Hye Yeon” to share insights and stay connected with fellow dancers. With dreams of both experimental works in Jeju and street performances abroad, she continues to explore dance as a way to connect people and stories.

Subin Byun is a marine environmental activist working to protect the ocean around Jeju. She founded the organization Diphda and leads its overall planning and on-site activities as director. Her work focuses on collecting marine waste, as well as running environmental education and community engagement programs. She follows the low tide schedule and moves along the coast, maintaining her field activities consistently regardless of season or weather. Beyond cleanup efforts, she also organizes exhibitions and workshops on marine environment themes to broaden the reach of her message. Through collaborations with companies and institutions, she encourages wider public participation. Grounded in field experience, she continues to foster everyday awareness and changes in how people think about the environment.

They began making music together in high school, which naturally led to the formation of their team. As the leader, Suchan writes his own lyrics, expressing personal thoughts and emotions drawn from everyday life. Donggeon performs under the name Jiseul and once participated in a video contest themed around the Jeju April 3rd Incident, winning second prize. The video featured music he composed himself. Centered on rap, they continue to explore performance, video production, and various creative projects. For them, Jeju is more than just home—it’s a studio where daily life and art blend together