This groundbreaking project marks the inaugural collaboration between BBC Studios and JTBC, featuring Song Ji-hyo as she endeavors to immerse herself in the traditional haenyeo culture of Korea.
The haenyeo, or “sea women,”represent an iconic aspect of Jeju Island’s heritage, with a rich history. Through this initiative, Song Ji-hyo aims to delve into their daily lives and fully embrace their unique world.
As reported by her agency Nexus E&M on October 23rd, the actress is engaged in a variety of training programs designed to prepare her for the challenges of becoming a haenyeo. Alongside mastering the essential skill of freediving, she will partake in actual underwater harvesting to gain firsthand experience of their everyday practices.
Song Ji-hyo shares a profound connection to the ocean, inspired by her mother, a former swimmer, and her aunt, who was a haenyeo. Building on her love for the sea, she is committed to substantial short-term training in preparation for becoming a haenyeo herself.
This venture promises to provide both physical and mental challenges, heightening the anticipation for the new aspects of Song Ji-hyo’s persona that she will reveal through this experience.
The documentary is particularly important as it highlights the stunning scenery of Jeju Island alongside the distinctive haenyeo culture, which was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2016.
The haenyeo are renowned for their ability to dive deeper than 10 meters to gather seafood, doing so without any specialized diving equipment. As interest grows in how Song Ji-hyo will portray the wisdom and lives of these women, it’s noteworthy that she has actively engaged in this project as part of a wider initiative to elevate Asian content on a global scale.
In a statement through her agency, Song Ji-hyo expressed her enthusiasm: “I am delighted to be part of this opportunity to showcase Korea’s invaluable cultural heritage to the world.”
She further commented, “Through this challenge, I hope to spark a greater interest in Korea’s haenyeo culture and K-content.”
Source: Wikitree
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