The Surprising Genetic Lessons from South Korea’s ‘Mermaids’—And What They Mean for Your Fertility Journey

Did you know there are real-life ‘mermaids’ in South Korea whose bodies have literally adapted for survival?

If that sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, you’re not alone. I was blown away when I read the recent Scientific American article about the Haenyeo—the legendary women divers of Jeju Island. These incredible women free-dive for seafood, with no breathing equipment, all year round. Scientists now believe their “superpowers” may not just be a matter of practice, but are being written into their DNA, generation after generation.

This got me thinking: What can we learn about resilience, adaptation, and family from these extraordinary divers? And how does this connect to those of us trying to grow our families—maybe in less extreme but no less meaningful ways?

The Haenyeo: Living Proof That Our Bodies—and Our Families—Are Always Evolving

Let’s take a moment to appreciate what the Haenyeo do. These women, some well past retirement age, swim in icy waters for hours, relying solely on grit, wisdom, and ancestral knowledge passed down through the matriarchal line. Over generations, researchers found their genetics actually reflect their unique way of life—better breath-holding, stronger lungs, and a knack for cold endurance.

This isn’t just about physical feats. It’s about adapting to challenges—together. Haenyeo culture is fiercely communal, with women teaching, supporting, and sometimes even raising children collectively. The message? Human potential is unlocked when we work together, share knowledge, and refuse to let old limitations define us.

What Does This Have to Do With Fertility in 2025?

You might be thinking, “Okay, but I’m not planning to dive for abalone anytime soon!” Fair. But here’s the connection: whether you’re struggling with unexplained infertility, exploring at-home insemination, or just dreaming about future babies, your journey is shaped by both the genes you inherit and the choices you make.

• We’re all adapting, just like the Haenyeo. The fertility world is changing fast—what our parents knew is so different from our reality. At-home insemination, DNA testing, community support groups—these are our modern-day “diving skills.”
• Community matters. The Haenyeo don’t dive alone, and neither should you have to navigate fertility by yourself. Whether it’s online forums, supportive partners, or organizations like MakeAMom, finding your tribe is key.
• Small changes add up over time. The Haenyeo didn’t evolve their abilities overnight, and most fertility journeys aren’t instant either. But with the right tools and knowledge, each step gets you closer to your dream.

DNA, Resilience & the Power of Choice

Here’s where it gets wild: scientists are discovering more every year about how lifestyle and environment can literally switch genes on and off—a field called epigenetics. Want a science fact to wow your friends? The choices you make today (food, wellness, stress, even which at-home insemination method you use) might impact not just your fertility, but your future children’s health as well.

This doesn’t mean you need to overhaul your life overnight.

• Start with simple changes: Track your cycle, learn about your options, ask for help.
• Use what works for you: The Haenyeo have their diving suits—maybe your “suit” is a reliable ovulation test, a reusable insemination kit, or a wellness ritual that’s uniquely yours.
• Don’t be afraid to innovate: New research, like what’s happening with the Haenyeo, is normalizing the reality that “traditional” isn’t always best. There’s no one right path to family.

Tools for Today’s Family-Builders (Hint: You Have More Options Than You Think)

If this all sounds inspiring but overwhelming, you’re not alone. I remember when I first started researching at-home insemination, it felt isolating and almost taboo—like I had to be a secret agent just to order supplies. But companies like MakeAMom’s at-home insemination kits are quietly changing the game. Their reusable kits come in options tailored to different needs—whether you’re dealing with sperm motility issues, sensitivities, or simply want to keep things private. The bonus? Everything arrives in plain packaging, because honestly, your fertility journey is nobody’s business but your own.

A friend recently told me she picked the BabyMaker kit for extra comfort (vaginismus is way more common than people think), and the experience felt empowering, not clinical. Over 67% of MakeAMom users report success. That’s a stat worth diving into!

The Takeaway: You’re More Powerful Than You Know

The Haenyeo teach us that we’re not stuck with the cards we’re dealt—our bodies, our fertility, even our families, are dynamic. By embracing new tools, building community, and staying open to change, we can transform our personal narratives. Who knows? Maybe in a few generations, your family will have its own superpowers to pass down.

So, here’s my question for you: What “diving suit” are you putting on for your fertility journey this year? Is it a new community, a supportive partner, a reliable fertility kit, or simply the courage to talk about what you want?

Share your story, leave a comment, or tag a friend who could use a little extra inspiration. We’re all in this together—above and below the surface.