Written by Axie Oh, a Korean American author known for her fantastical young adult novels, The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea offers an enchanting tale that delves into the depths of mythology and destiny as a heroic young woman named Mina offers herself as a sacrifice to save her country from the wrath of a Sea God. First published in 2022, the novel reinvents elements of Korean folklore to explore the intersection of human experiences with the divine. Through Mina’s journey, the novel addresses the themes of self-discovery, the complexities of love and heroism, and the significance of folklore in contemporary life.

Axie Oh‘s background and heritage significantly influence her storytelling, and her themes are rooted in Korean culture. The novel has been favorably received for its blend of myth and modernity, although it hasn’t been adapted into other media forms as of its original publication. The story captures a journey of sacrifice and peril that unfolds in a realm in which fantasy and reality converge. While set in a fantastical landscape, the story references an array of relevant cultural elements and is therefore designed to engage a young adult audience.

This guide refers to the Feiwel & Friends Kindle Edition published in 2022.

Plot Summary

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea is set in a world inspired by Korean mythology and folklore. As the story begins, the wrath of a Sea God brings devastating storms upon the land. The protagonist, Mina, a determined and compassionate young girl, is driven by her love for her brother, Joon. When Joon’s beloved, Shim Cheong, is chosen as a sacrificial bride to appease the Sea God, Mina intervenes. She offers herself as the Sea God’s bride instead, plunging into the sea and entering the mystical Spirit Realm. Upon her arrival, Mina finds herself in a complex world of gods, spirits, and hidden political machinations. Here, she is bound to her destiny by the Red String of Fate, which initially links her to the Sea God. Throughout her journey, Mina encounters various mythical beings, including Shin, a key figure in the realm, with whom she forms a deep connection. The Red String of Fate, a central motif, also becomes a symbol of Mina’s fate, which is intertwined with both Shin and the Sea God.

As Mina navigates a society governed by divine whims, her time in the Spirit Realm is marked by significant challenges and revelations, and she gradually discovers the intricacies of love, sacrifice, and heroism. The narrative reaches its climax when Mina discovers that Shin is not just a guardian in the Spirit Realm; he also harbors the spirit of the Sea God himself. This pivotal revelation complicates Mina’s feelings as she grapples with her sense of duty and her growing affection for Shin.

The resolution of the story hinges on Mina’s decision to use the dragon’s pearl, a powerful artifact capable of altering fate. With this act, Mina wishes for a restoration of balance between the human and divine realms. This selfless act marks a significant transformation in her character, showcasing her growth from youthful determination to compassion and wisdom. The novel concludes with Mina’s return to her world, where she witnesses the miraculous recovery of the land and the reappearance of the emperor, who has been absent for a century. However, despite the emperor’s marriage proposal, Mina’s heart remains tied to Shin. Ultimately, Mina and Shin reunite and choose to build a future together as a testament to their love and the triumph of personal choice over destiny.