KBS to air 'Haewon, Their Sea,' spotlighting Jeju haenyeo's struggles on 14th

Women who faced Jeju's unforgiving sea — and the shamanic rites that offered solace

KBS will air the special documentary 'Haewon (解冤), Their Sea' on its KBS 1TV channel on the 14th to mark the 2026 Seoul General Assembly of Public Broadcasters International (PBI). The documentary takes an in-depth look at the lives and culture of the 'Jeju haenyeo', who are listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and offers an authoritative reassessment of their noble history alongside the rough waters where they shared life's joys and sorrows.

The documentary also offers a multidimensional portrait of the 'shimbang,' Jeju's traditional shamans, who pray to the sea for the divers' safety and a plentiful catch. Through vivid imagery and meticulous historical research, it explores how a sense of community and shamanism, born from Jeju's harsh natural environment, became a spiritual anchor for the haenyeo.

Actor Song Ji-hyo brings an authentic voice and elevates the documentary

Actor 'Song Ji-hyo,' a familiar and trusted figure to the public, provides the documentary's main narration. Her characteristically calm and compelling voice will convey the 'Jeju haenyeo's' struggles and the 'shimbang's' heartfelt prayers, deepening the viewing experience.

KBS stressed that the special broadcast will both wish for the successful hosting of the 2026 PBI Seoul General Assembly and serve as an important opportunity to introduce Korea's distinctive local culture and universal human values to public broadcasters around the world. The production is expected to go beyond a simple record, offering a finely crafted reflection on the sacred relationship between the sea and humanity.