Song Ji-hyo Dives Into the Life of Korea’s Haenyeo in New JTBC and BBC Studios Docuseries

South Korean actress Song Ji-hyo is taking a bold plunge into a new role — quite literally — by becoming a Haenyeo (female diver) in the new documentary series Deep Dive Korea: Song Ji-hyo’s Haenyeo Adventure, premiering June 15 on JTBC.

Directed by Heo Jin of JTBC’s entertainment studio SAY, the series follows Song as she embarks on a transformative journey in Jeju, South Korea’s famed island, to train and live like a haenyeo — the centuries-old tradition of women diving into the ocean without oxygen tanks to harvest seafood. The three-part docuseries is a pioneering co-production between South Korea’s JTBC and the globally renowned BBC Studios.

Having a personal connection to the sea — her mother was a swimmer and her aunt a former haenyeo — Song brought both passion and respect to this physically and emotionally demanding challenge. She completed intensive diving and breath-holding training, calling the experience “one of the most hardworking moments of her life.”

Song’s endeavor dives deeper than just an experience; the show aims to reflect the authentic lives, sacrifices, and resilience of the haenyeo — women who have relied on the ocean for generations. Their lifestyle, rooted in strength, community, and sustainability, is increasingly rare in modern times.

Director Heo Jin noted, “Deep Dive Korea is not just a broadcast—it’s a chance to intimately share the spirit and culture of Korea’s remarkable sea women with a global audience.”

This marks the first official joint project between JTBC and BBC Studios. BBC Studios Asia’s SVP of Content, Ryan Shiotani, expressed excitement over the project: “We’re proud to present the stunning landscapes of Jeju and the authentic lives of haenyeo to both JTBC and BBC Earth audiences. Song Ji-hyo’s deep dedication was vital in bringing sincerity and emotional depth to the screen.”

Deep Dive Korea: Song Ji-hyo’s Haenyeo Adventure will air every Thursday at midnight KST, starting June 15, as a three-part docuseries.