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.