The Haenyeo of Jeju Island, South Korea (SK), are a community of women free divers who have practised sustainable fishing for centuries. They represent a unique cultural heritage, environmental stewardship, and women's empowerment. However, climate change and social shifts threaten their way of life. In this project I worked with a Haenyeo group in Jeju island and the leading South Korean research institute KAIST, to co-design a game as a critical platform to preserve and promote this valuable heritage, highlight women's contributions to fisheries, and inspire individual action on climate change. The community’s and experts’ involvement in the design ensured its relevance and impact.

This work was guided by a new methodological framework we introduce, 'Inspiration Game Design with Care', a framework that addresses persistent tensions between cultural authenticity and game design, community voice and designer interpretation, and heritage preservation and contemporary relevance.

The Golden Tewak game serves as an essential platform to elevate and honor the Haenyeo's knowledge and heritage. It aims to educate players on sustainable traditional practices, community building, intergenerational challenges, and women's empowerment, while also inspiring behavioral change. The game is currently in development. For more details about the project, please dedicated website.

:: Pictures from Haenyeo changing room, Yongrak-ri, Jeju and from workshop activities at Sinye-ri village, Jeju island. ::