BBC Studios & JTBC to Co-Produce Diving Series

BBC Studios and JTBC are set to co-produce Deep Dive Korea: Song Ji-Hyo’s Haenyeo Adventure, marking the first time the companies have partnered for an original production and BBC Studios Asia’s first co-production in Korea.

Across three episodes, Korean star Ji-hyo (Running Man) will free dive with the legendary Haenyeo female underwater sea fishers. The women, many of whom are in their 80s, risk their lives daily by plunging up to 20 meters to the seafloor without oxygen masks or advanced equipment to gather shellfish.

Ryan Shiotani, senior VP of content at BBC Studios Asia, 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 recognize 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.”

Lee Dong-hee, managing director of SAY, JTBC’s unscripted studio, added: “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.”

Ji-hyo commented: “I’m incredibly excited to be part of a project that brings together JTBC and BBC Studios. 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.”