The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea

Steeped in the cultural context of Korean mythology and folklore, The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea draws its primary inspiration from the traditional Korean folktale, “The Tale of Shim Cheong.” This narrative choice inspires the thematic and symbolic fabric of the novel, providing a cultural backdrop that informs both the story and its characters. In the original folktale, Shim Cheong sacrifices herself to the sea to save her father, embodying themes of filial piety and self-sacrifice. These two virtues are central to Korean cultural values and are emblematic of the Confucian ideal of filial duty. However, Oh’s reimagining of the original tale introduces a new protagonist whose journey surpasses that of Shim Cheong, for although Mina’s endeavor is also one of self-sacrifice, she must navigate additional layers of narrative complexity that reflect contemporary values and perspectives.

In Oh’s narrative, Mina’s character development is not solely focused on self-sacrifice for the sake of familial duty; instead, it encompasses a broader journey toward understanding her destiny, forming deep connections based on love, and asserting her agency. Because this expansion of the traditional narrative moves beyond the confines of duty to include personal choice and empowerment, it allows for a deeper exploration of the protagonist’s internal conflicts and growth. Mina’s actions, while initially driven by the desire to save her brother, soon evolve into a personal quest that challenges her to make choices with far-reaching implications for both the human and divine realms.

This modern adaptation of a traditional story reflects a shifting cultural landscape in which individual desires and personal growth are increasingly recognized as vital components of personal identity. Mina’s journey through the Spirit Realm, which is filled with mythical beings and gods, also serves as a metaphor for her internal explorations and the choices she must make. Because her decisions are influenced by love and personal convictions, they demonstrate a break from the passive acceptance of fate, highlighting the importance of individual agency in shaping destiny. Oh’s reinterpretation of “The Tale of Shim Cheong” thus bridges the gap between traditional Korean values and modern sensibilities. By weaving elements of ancient folklore into a narrative that resonates with contemporary themes of self-discovery and empowerment, Oh demonstrates the continued relevance of these stories.

To this end, Korean mythology plays a central role in the author’s world-building, and Oh makes liberal use of its pantheon of gods, spirits, and mythical creatures to populate her world. Most notable among these fantastical beings is the Imugi, a serpent that aspires to become a dragon. The Imugi’s inclusion in the novel and its transformative journey is reflective of a recurring theme in Korean mythology––the pursuit of aspirations and metamorphosis. These concepts are also emblematic of the resilience and transformative nature of the human spirit. Central to the novel is also the setting of the Spirit Realm, an ethereal domain that serves as a crossroads for human and divine interactions. In Oh’s novel, this realm is a manifestation of traditional Korean beliefs about the afterlife and the supernatural, where ancestral spirits reside. Korean culture emphasizes a strong emphasis on the veneration of ancestors and a harmonious coexistence with nature. The interactions between humans and deities within this realm are steeped in respect and honor, mirroring the real-world practices and beliefs of Korean society.

Furthermore, the novel’s utilization of The Red String of Fate, a motif that is prevalent throughout the folklore of many different Asian cultures, symbolizes the connections of relationships and the inevitability of destiny. In Korean culture, for example, this concept is often associated with romantic destiny, but Oh extends its meaning to encompass the broader spectrum of human relationships and choices. Mina’s journey, tethered by this Red String of Fate, challenges traditional interpretations of destiny. Her path highlights the balance between accepting one’s fate and exercising free will, thereby delivering the author’s own critique on the roles of predestined relationships and individual agency in shaping a person’s life.