Deep in the remote jungles of southeastern Papua, Indonesia, the Korowai tribe has lived in relative isolation for centuries. They say that this tribe is the last one that practices cannibalism… but how real is that?
Known for their unique treehouse dwellings, the Korowai people have adapted to their environment in fascinating ways.
These treehouses, called “khaim,” can tower up to 140 feet above the jungle floor, providing safety from predators and floods.
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Korowai Tribe’s Darkest Secrets
Despite their isolation, the Korowai have come into contact with the outside world, particularly through tourism. Some members of the tribe have started to work with tour companies, offering visitors a glimpse into their unique way of life.
This interaction has brought both opportunities and challenges, as the Korowai navigate the balance between preserving their traditions and adapting to modern influences.
Historically, the Korowai were known for their practice of ritual cannibalism, particularly during tribal conflicts.
Recently, an American Youtuber Drew Binsky visited the tribe and had the opportunity to talk to them about their traditions which was really interesting.
About the Korowai tribe cannibalism tradition, now we know that this is not a food necessity. According to the YouTuber, this would rather be a way of punishing someone for their crimes or for being “possessed” by a demon.
However, this practice has largely died out, and today, the Korowai are more known for their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle.
They rely on hunting, fishing, and gathering for their sustenance, and their social structure is centered around patriclan kinship systems.
What are Their Beliefs?
The Korowai tribe have some specific beliefs about demons, specially that one called ‘Hakua‘ who can possess a person’s body, “eat” them from the inside and turn them into sorcerers.
For them, this kind of possession by Hakua requires them to kill the possessed person and eat them. That’s really hard don’t you think?
However, it’s also believed that kids under 13 years are not allowed to eat the sacrificed individual, due to their spiritual lifestyle.
“The Korowai believe that mysterious deaths, such as illnesses, are due to Hakua or evil demons taking human form,” explained Drew Binsky. “The Hakua are said to disguise themselves as friends or family members in an attempt to gain the trust of the tribesmen so they can kill them later. Performing cannibalistic rituals is part of the Korowai tradition to protect the tribe members as part of their justice system based on revenge.”
Researchers also estimate that there are about 4,000 members of the Korowai tribe living in these impressive houses high in trees within the dense jungle.
