Journal of Marine and Island Cultures

Comparative Insights on Workcation Providers: Applying Japanese Models to Korean Islands

Tae Gyeom Lee — 2025-03-10

The relational population concept, which includes individuals engaging with regions without residing there, is key to combating regional extinction and population decline in island areas. This study explores strategies for introducing workcations in island regions by analyzing promotional materials from South Korea and Japan. Through a comprehensive analysis of promotional data, the study identifies significant themes in workcation attraction strategies, highlighting differences and similarities between the two countries. The findings emphasize the importance of leveraging unique regional characteristics, providing excellent facilities, and promoting long-term stay programs. Recommendations include turning infrastructure challenges into advantages and diversifying workcation programs. This research contributes to the development of effective workcation policies and serves as a resource for enhancing the sustainability of island regions. By examining successful practices in South Korea and Japan, the study offers valuable insights for policymakers and regional planners seeking innovative approaches to address depopulation issues and revitalize island communities in the context of evolving work patterns and digital connectivity.

The utilization of plants in traditional medicine and rituals of Karimunjawa Island community, Central Java, Indonesia

Fadly Husain — 2025-03-10

Ethnobotany research remains important for improving our understanding of the use of plants for health and medicinal purposes in various societies and cultures. This research represents a journey toward exploring and understanding the wealth of traditional medicine knowledge, holistic health services, cultural preservation, and sustainable resource management in coastal communities in the Karimunjawa region. The study employed a qualitative method with a series of data collection techniques including observations, interviews, and documentation. The research findings reveal that there are at least 38 types of plants used as traditional treatment options for individuals and families. The plants include moringa, carrots, strawberry guava, betel, gambier, tobacco, ginger, bay leaves, lemongrass, galangal, coconuts, tamarind, turmeric, glutinous rice, curcuma, pandan, coffee, shallots, garlic, lime, guava, lesser galangal, rice, starfruit, bitterleaf, bittervine, soursop, bananas, sugarcane, white pumpkin, cinnamon, celery, aloe vera, and several other endemic materials from the coastal region such as dewandaru trees, stigi wood, and seaweed. The processing methods are still simple, such as boiling, grating, blending, or consuming them fresh. This local knowledge is passed down through generations as a preferred form of traditional medicine which is affordable and easily accessible in the region.

THE DEATH OF THE YOUNGEST LAMAFA

Yoseph Yapi Taum — 2025-03-10

This research aims to understand the sea as a cultural space within the context of the Lamalera fishing community on Lembata Island, Indonesia. The Lamalera community is a fishing community with the privilege of catching whales, dolphins, and manta rays – species that are protected. The human relationship with the marine environment is a complex model, encompassing various aspects such as culture, economy, social, political, and spiritual dimensions. This study reveals cultural practices that have developed around the sea, including myths, customs, fishing traditions, maritime trade, and the utilization of marine resources. Furthermore, this research also identifies the role of the sea in shaping the cultural identity of the Lamalera community, including livelihoods, beliefs, and unique cultural practices. Through an interdisciplinary approach involving history, anthropology, sociology, and cultural studies, this research complements previous studies on the sea as a cultural space. The results of this research show that the Lamalera community has a close and unique relationship with the sea through whale hunting practices and other fishing activities. Their highly intensive interaction with the sea as their sole source of livelihood forms the identity of the Lamalera community as a traditional whale hunting fishing community (aboriginal subsistence whaling).

Factors Influencing Depression among the Elderly in Island Regions

Jeong Min Choi — 2025-03-10

The purpose of this study is to identify factors influencing depression among elderly people in island regions. To achieve this research objective, the study used raw data from the “Community Health Survey 2021” conducted by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. Its actual analysis was based on raw data from the “Community Health Survey 2021”, targeting 450 elderly people aged 65 or older residing in Sinan-gun, Jeollanam-do, surveyed by Sinan-gun Public Health Center. In addition, a regression analysis was performed using SPSS version 29.0 to test the research hypotheses. The results of verifying the research hypotheses showed that gender, economic activity, pain, subjective health, and subjective stress would have significant effects on depression among elderly people in island regions. Based on these research findings, various practical and policy recommendations were presented to help manage depression among the elderly in island regions.

A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF SEAWEED FARMING IN INDONESIA

Dewayany Sutrisno — 2025-03-10

Seaweed aquaculture plays a vital role in the blue economy, contributing to economic growth, enhanced livelihoods, and the preservation of marine ecosystem health. However, the industry is hindered by several challenges, such as limited species diversity, technological gaps, and competition over marine space. This study aimed to assess the current state, challenges, and prospects of seaweed aquaculture, with a particular emphasis on Indonesia. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, focusing on the development of species diversity, cultivation technologies, and site suitability in Indonesia. The findings reveal that seaweed aquaculture in Indonesia is primarily dominated by species like Kappaphycus alvarezii, Gracilaria sp., and Euchema cottonii. This underscores the necessity for species diversification and the adoption of advanced cultivation technologies. Key areas identified for future research include the optimization of cultivation techniques, expansion of suitable farming areas, and the integration of digital technologies and genetic analysis to boost productivity and sustainability. In addition to technological advancements, socio-economic research on seaweed farming demonstrates its significant contribution to coastal community livelihoods, offering income opportunities and increased resilience. Furthermore, research on strategic planning, biosecurity, and supportive policy frameworks is crucial for the sustainable development of the seaweed aquaculture sector in Indonesia.

Survival Decisions and Adaptation Strategies of Small-scale Fishers in the Face of Extreme Weather Impacts in Coastal Areas

rahim — 2025-03-10

The survival decision of small-scale fishers in coastal areas in the face of extreme weather conditions is a permanent choice because there is no other job. Their survival depends on their catch and profit. Extreme weather conditions in coastal areas provide small opportunities for fishermen to make decisions to catch fish in sea waters. Adaptation strategies need to be carried out by fishermen to face challenges and take advantage of opportunities that arise from the adverse effects of environmental changes in coastal areas. This research uses quantitative methods, such as surveys and descriptive approaches. A logistic regression model using the maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) method analyses the factors that influence survival decisions during extreme weather and adaptation strategies of fishermen in extreme weather conditions with a SWOT Analysis. This study found that fishing income, fishing experience, and environmentally friendly fishing gear assistance programs can increase the probability of fishermen's survival decisions during extreme weather conditions. Adaptation strategies for fishermen in extreme weather conditions can be done by minimizing the impact, such as economic and environmental adaptation, optimizing various government assistance programs, and improving patron-client relationships and interaction patterns. Policymakers can mediate the adaptation behavior of fishers to develop adaptation strategies to help fishers adapt to extreme weather. Adaptation strategies can be tailored to the needs, capabilities, and interests of small-scale fishers in coastal areas.

Strategies for the Regional Development of Jeollanam-do through Marine Specialization

Jae-Eun Kim — 2025-03-10

This proposes strategies for the regional development of Jeollanam-do through marine specialization. Jeollanam-do boasts an abundance of islands and marine resources, with agriculture and fisheries being the primary industries. However, rapid population decline and urbanization threaten the sustainability of its development. By analyzing the 5th National Comprehensive Territorial Plan and Jeollanam-do's 4th Comprehensive Plan, this research derives sustainable development strategies to leverage the region's unique resources. Emphasizing the pivotal role of local universities such as Mokpo National University, it discusses how revitalization of island- and marine-centered industries and tourism can be achieved through regional talent cultivation and development. It further highlights the necessity of fostering talent, enhancing research and development capabilities, attracting domestic and international students, expanding cooperation between local universities and industries, and utilizing historical and cultural resources. In conclusion, it is anticipated that marine specialization strategies reflecting Jeollanam-do's unique characteristics will contribute to balanced regional development and sustainability.

Exploring the paradoxical national projection in small and secluded island realities: The case of the Canary Islands

Jorge Antonio Montesdeoca Pérez — 2025-03-10

This study explores the paradox of nationalism in small insular communities isolated in seas, particularly oceans. Despite their distinct identity, unique history, exclusive connection between people and territory, and strong association between local symbology and landscape, these communities often resist attaining national status, perceiving it as a precursor to statehood. This paradox manifests as an internal conflict between embracing and rejecting a national image. Historically, this resistance has prevailed, subtly shaping the political and social development of such islands.

The Canary Islands serve as a prime example of this dynamic. While the archipelago is not currently pursuing nationhood, it presents a unique case for studying nationalism within these insular contexts, with evidence of this paradox in both historical and recent times. Therefore, this article argues for maintaining the scope of nationalism studies within these insular contexts, regardless of whether the communities have become nations. More specifically, this article demonstrates that owing to their interaction with paradox, it can be very beneficial to analyse such insular contexts using established theories that focus on explaining the nation-formation process.

Ms Tracing the ‘Cultural’ Element of Small Fisher’s Definition in International Legal Frameworks and its Relevance to Small-fisher Legal Definition in Indonesia Laws

Erlis Nurbani — 2025-03-10

Varied and un-uniform terminologies and definitions refer to subsistence fishing in Indonesia’s legal framework undermine the efforts to recognize and to protect small-fisher. Variety of terminologies and its definitions in different pieces of legislation, spanning from Job Creation, Fisheries, Regional Autonomy, and Protection and Empowerment of Fisherfolks. This is impacting on how different authorized bodies perceived small-scale fishers and granted their rights. Therefore, this study would assess it from the perspective international laws, tracing ‘culture’ as an important element of small-fisher from arbitration awards, LOSC and its implementing agreements, FAO Fisheries Laws, and bilateral agreements under Article 51 paragraph (1) the LOSC.

Using doctrinal method, this research found that cultural element of artisanal fishing has been acknowledged in international legal frameworks, spanning from the concluded bilateral agreements on the recognition of traditional fishing rights in archipelagic waters, the South China Sea and Eritrea/Yemen arbitration awards, as well as non-binding FAO fisheries instruments. Therefore, to be consistent, Indonesia’s legal definition on artisanal fisher shall adopt the same approach.

The The Imagination of a Transoceanic Island:

Jungmin Cho — 2025-03-10

This study examines the methods and aspects of literary representation of the Japanese island Okinawa, focusing on the novels of authors Kim Jeong-han and Kim Soom. Okinawa is noted as a locale that shares a similar history with Korea, as both regions suffered under Japan’s colonial rule. Beyond this, however, Okinawa is also a place that invites broad reflection on the East Asian context of various themes, such as barbarism and violence, perpetration and victimization, and dominance and subjugation. In light of this, Kim Jeong-han and Kim Soom sought to portray Okinawa not merely as a place confined to historical memory, but as a symbolic space that reflects on the contemporary contexts of exclusion, violence, and hatred. This is accomplished by exploring such issues as state violence, gender oppression, and racial discrimination, which persist even in the 21st century. Through Okinawa, the authors aimed to uncover the overlapping structures existing between imperialism and colonialism. They also sought to suggest new possibilities for trans-locality by intersecting and expanding the historical experiences and events rooted in Okinawa into Korea, Japan, and the U.S. The reason Okinawa could serve as a hub of trans-locality lies in its geographical location at the southern tip of the Japanese archipelago and its experience of being an internal colony under Japanese rule. However, the manifold layers of differentiation and the presence of complex others within Okinawa also give it multiple identities, challenging the island to seek out new ways of thinking by constantly traversing, intersecting, and defying boundaries. Therefore, this study assesses how these various experiences, practices, and contemplations formed around Okinawa may offer points of academic inspiration and reflection for East Asia and the world in the future.

SAKHALIN ISLAND IN THE SOVIET AND RUSSIAN AUDIOVISUAL TEXT

Olga Lavrenova — 2025-03-10

Sakhalin is the largest island of the Russian Empire, the USSR, and now of modern Russia. This is why its audiovisual representations encompass various aspects of life, centering on different social problems and combining descriptions and depictions of natural features. The comprehension of this region began with Anton Chekhov, who visited in the late 19th century. Through his own observations, Chekhov presented a unique perspective on the social problems of Sakhalin, which then served as a place of exile. He also brought a collection of photographs (works by Innokenty Pavlovsky among them), depicting everyday scenes of convicts, including their shackling. The visual representation of the local indigenous peoples’ lives and traditions also dates back to the 19th century.

During the Soviet era, Sakhalin saw the production of highly skilled documentary films showcasing the island’s development, natural resources, and tension on the border; it also became the setting for several feature films. Noteworthy among the feature films of the late Soviet period is Karen Gevorkian’s adaptation of the novel, Spotted Dog Running at the Edge of the Sea, by Chingiz Aitmatov. It focuses on the small (about 4,500 individuals) Nivkh people,[1] incorporating documentary footage of their lives into the narrative.

In post-perestroika Russia, the focus shifted in feature films, including those about Sakhalin. Documentaries about the island experienced a resurgence as the state recognized its strategic importance. Numerous professional films were made, highlighting Sakhalin’s natural wealth and the lives of its residents on the edge of the world. And in the early 2000s, a new genre emerged: “people’s videos” created by islanders and travel bloggers. Although lacking a traditional plot, these films simply describe the authors personal encounters with the geographical reality of the island. However, both Soviet and post-Soviet documentaries occasionally revisit the theme of hard labor, as well as the persisting topic of challenges faced by small ethnic groups.

[1] Indigenous small-numbered peoples is a term employed in Russian legislation since 1993 to refer to groups with populations not exceeding 50,000 individuals, residing in the ancestral territories of traditional settlement and maintaining their customary way of life.