Actress Song Ji-hyo embarks on a challenge to become a haenyeo.
The JTBC documentary program 'Deep Dive Korea: Song Ji-hyo's Haenyeo Adventure', which premieres at midnight on the 15th, depicts Song Ji-hyo's journey as she challenges herself to dive like a haenyeo in Jeju and forms a genuine bond with them.
Song Ji-hyo described this project as “one of the hardest moments of my life,” as she underwent rigorous training to become a haenyeo. She aims to share the true stories of haenyeos who lead tough lives at sea, going beyond mere experience. Notably, she has expressed a special interest in marine activities, thanks to her mother, a former swimmer, and her aunt, a former haenyeo, which adds to the intrigue.
Heo Jin, the director from JTBC's entertainment studio SAY, stated, “'Deep Dive Korea: Song Ji-hyo's Haenyeo Adventure' delicately captures the strong spirit and way of life of Jeju's haenyeos,” adding, “It will be a new experience that goes beyond simple broadcasting, allowing us to share and feel a unique culture of Korea together.”
'Deep Dive Korea: Song Ji-hyo's Haenyeo Adventure' is the first co-produced content by JTBC and BBC Studios. BBC Studios is the commercial subsidiary of the British public broadcaster BBC, responsible for the global production and distribution of premium video content and intellectual property. They produce over 2,800 hours of content annually in collaboration with domestic and international partners, boasting global expertise in documentary filmmaking, particularly in nature documentaries, science, and premium factual programs.
Ryan Shiotani, Senior Vice President of BBC Studios Asia Content, expressed, “We are delighted to showcase the beautiful landscapes of Jeju and the lives of haenyeos to JTBC and BBC Earth viewers through the production of Deep Dive Korea.” He added, “Song Ji-hyo demonstrated a strong commitment to her challenge as a haenyeo, and the production teams from both countries created authentic content through mutual understanding.”
The JTBC special documentary 'Deep Dive Korea: Song Ji-hyo's Haenyeo Adventure' will air weekly on Thursdays after its premiere at midnight on the 15th. It is a three-part series.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
