Low Life Cast Reveals Grueling Summer Shoot for Underwater Treasure Hunt Scene Set in the 1970s

The highly anticipated Korean drama Low Life, set in the gritty backdrop of 1970s Korea, is already capturing attention for its gripping storyline and unique setting. But behind the polished scenes lies a tale of endurance, passion, and teamwork that the cast recently opened up about — particularly regarding one unforgettable underwater chase sequence filmed during the height of summer.

In a recent press conference and exclusive behind-the-scenes interviews, the main cast members of Low Life — including Lee Je Hoon, Kim Hye Yoon, and Oh Jung Se — shared their grueling experiences while shooting a pivotal treasure hunt scene. The sequence, which involves an intense underwater escape in search of hidden gold, was filmed in extreme heat and under challenging conditions to mirror the tense, dangerous world their characters inhabit.

“Wearing the vintage diving suits while shooting underwater scenes in 35-degree Celsius weather was one of the toughest things I’ve ever done,” revealed Lee Je Hoon. “It was physically exhausting, but also incredibly rewarding. It made the scene more realistic and immersive.”

Kim Hye Yoon echoed his sentiments, noting the dedication of the cast and crew. “Despite the heat and the long hours, everyone was focused and determined to do justice to the story. We were constantly reminded of the struggles of the 1970s generation, and we wanted to reflect that intensity.”

Director Park Joon Hwa also praised the cast for their stamina and professionalism. “It was a risk filming during peak summer conditions, but we knew it would add authenticity to the drama. We used minimal CGI, so most of what viewers see is real — real sweat, real water, real danger.”

The underwater treasure chase is a crucial moment in the storyline, as it marks a turning point where the main characters uncover hidden truths while being hunted by rivals. Set against the socio-political backdrop of 1970s Korea, Low Life explores themes of survival, ambition, and the cost of chasing wealth in a corrupt world.

Oh Jung Se, who plays a cunning black market dealer, admitted that the underwater scene tested his limits. “I’m not a strong swimmer, so I trained for weeks before filming. The coordination and timing had to be perfect.”

To prepare for the scene, the cast underwent diving lessons, safety training, and rehearsed in water tanks before shooting on location. The production team also worked closely with stunt divers and underwater cinematographers to ensure both safety and high cinematic quality.

Fans who’ve seen previews of the drama have praised the realism and gritty tone. “The underwater scene looks straight out of a movie. You can really feel the tension,” commented one netizen.

As Low Life continues its broadcast, viewers can look forward to more action-packed moments and emotionally charged scenes that reflect the sacrifices made during its production. The drama not only promises entertainment but also offers a glimpse into the resilience of those involved — both on screen and off.

With the buzz building and the cast's behind-the-scenes stories gaining traction, Low Life is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most talked-about K-dramas.