: The characters live through Japanese colonialism, World War II, the Korean War, and the devastating 4.3 Incident (a real-life massacre on Jeju Island).

: Despite their deep bond, their relationship is fractured by external political forces and a specific act of betrayal that takes decades to address.

The story spans several decades, from the , following Young-sook and Mi-ja as they train to become haenyeo —a unique collective of all-female free divers who harvest seafood to support their families while the men stay home to care for children.

: It provides a rare, meticulously researched look into the dying tradition of the haenyeo "mermaids," emphasizing female strength and resilience. Reader Reception

The book is widely praised, maintaining a with over 175,000 ratings. The Island of Sea Women Summary & Review - TheBookSuite