BERLIN – On May 16, the Korean Cultural Center in Berlin launched its new interactive program series “BADA: Underwater World”, inviting the public to explore the hidden underwater ecosystems of Korea’s seas.
Exploring the “Forests of the Sea”
South Korea’s colorful marine ecosystems are home to a centuries-old seaweed culture—and for good reason. Seaweed is a true multi-talent: rich in nutrients, it is used not only in cuisine but also in the cosmetics industry. Moreover, thanks to its ability to absorb carbon dioxide, seaweed plays a crucial role in combating climate change. Through a diverse series of lectures, exhibits, and hands-on workshops, the program showcases the many dimensions and potentials of this sustainable marine plant.
The second focus of the series is the Haenyeo (literally “women of the sea”), female divers who embody the harmonious coexistence of humans and the ocean. These divers are known for their ability to harvest seafood from the icy waters off Korea’s coast without oxygen tanks. Their traditions and way of life date back thousands of years. BADA: Underwater World offers a rare look into the lives of these remarkable women, a profession now on the verge of extinction.
To mark the launch of the cultural program, a collaborative event was held with the City of Wando, the Haenyeo Museum, Haesan, and Marinavi, featuring tastings and expert insights into the world of seaweed and Haenyeo heritage.
Seaweed: A Superfood for a Sustainable Future
One of the standout highlights of the opening event was a seaweed cooking workshop hosted by Chiwon Choi Gromadzki, a Korean seaweed entrepreneur and founder of Seaweed Lifestyle & Culture. A cookbook author and passionate advocate of Korea’s seaweed heritage, she has committed herself to producing seaweed products that are free from the effects of ocean pollution—an issue that also affects Korea’s coastlines.
“My passion for seaweed is boundless,” Choi Gromadzki told attendees. “Especially miyeokguk—Korean seaweed soup—which I often have for breakfast, holds a special place in my heart.” This love for seaweed inspired her to launch her company with the aim of promoting a nutritious and sustainable seaweed lifestyle worldwide.
Her idea was shaped by her experiences as a flight attendant for Emirates Airline, where she traveled to over 100 cities around the globe. These encounters gave her a unique perspective and motivation to introduce seaweed as a health-forward food across diverse cultures. Each of her products reflects global trends and cultural influences she experienced firsthand.
“I never imagined that my journey—from attending Haenyeo School to meeting seaweed experts around the world—would one day bring me here to Berlin,” she added.
Since founding her company, Chiwon Choi Gromadzki has developed a wide range of seaweed-based products, including cosmetics. More information is available at her official website: www.seaweedsupermarket.com.
Exhibition: BADA – Underwater World
The exhibition “BADA: Underwater World” is on view until September 10, 2025, at the Korean Cultural Center, Leipziger Platz 3, 10117 Berlin. Admission is free. (hz) Photo: AT/hz , Chiwon Choi Gromadzki