Docuseries with South Korean star is super-indie’s first co-pro with JTBC
BBC Studios Asia is to enter its first co-production with South Korean cable TV network JTBC, with a diving docuseries for JTCB and BBC Earth across Asia.
The 3 x 49-minute Deep Dive Korea: Song Ji-Hyo’s Haenyeo Adventure will star the titular South Korean actress and model who will free dive with the legendary haenyeo female underwater sea fishers of of Jeju Island – many of whom are in their 80s.
They practice a tradition that has been passed down for 400 years, diving up to 20 metres to the seafloor without oxygen masks or advanced equipment to gather shellfish for their families and for their livelihood.
Running Man star Song Ji-hyo, whose aunt was a haenyeo and whose mother was a swimming athlete, will take part in intensive training necessary in just a month, and immerse herself with the women in a place which has been declared one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
The series has received funding from the Korean Creative Content Agency ‘KOCCA’, with whom BBCS signed a memorandum of understanding in August to expand the worldwide production and distribution of factual Korean content, known as ‘K-Content’.
Senior vice president of content at BBC Studios Asia Ryan Shiotani said: “BBC Studios is delighted to bring the lives of the haenyeo and the beautiful landscapes of Jeju to viewers through the eyes of Song Ji-Hyo and this original production for JTBC and BBC Earth Asia.
“We recognise the importance of Korea as a leading content producer and collaborator, and we’re excited to take our first steps into co-production with leading broadcaster JTBC and with the support of KOCCA. We have ambitious plans to strengthen and evolve our relationships with partners in Asia and to bring more Asian stories to the rest of the world.”
Managing director of SAY, JTBC’s unscripted studio, Lee Dong-hee said: “This documentary is a significant opportunity for JTBC to introduce Korea’s precious cultural heritage to the global stage. The Haenyeo of Jeju live a unique life where tradition and nature come together, and we are thrilled to share their story with an international audience. We plan to set a new paradigm for international content production moving forward.”
Song Ji-hyo said: “After over 20 years in the entertainment industry, I’m looking forward to pushing beyond the limits I’ve felt, and this project could be that chance. It’s more than simply stepping into the shoes of a Haenyeo—it’s about truly immersing myself in their authentic way of life and evolving through that shared journey.”
The series will premiere on BBC Earth’s new ‘Asia Hour’ every Sunday from 9pm SGT.
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