Actress Kim Hee-ae Narrates KBS's Grand Project 'Sacred Relics'

Renowned actress Kim Hee-ae, 58, takes on the role of narrator for KBS's grand project 'Sacred Relics'. This marks her return to the spotlight following her last appearance in the 2024 Netflix series 'Whirlwind'.

The first episode of KBS's 'Sacred Relics' (produced by Kim Dong-il, Lee Song-eun, and Kim Eun-gon), titled 'Covenant', delves into the Ark of the Covenant, known as 'Tabot', which is believed to have been inscribed with the Ten Commandments received by Moses from God. Ethiopia, a country largely composed of highlands, is home to this mysterious relic.

Though 'Tabot' is a replica of the Ark of the Covenant, Orthodox Christians regard it as the same and hold it in high esteem. The 'Tabot', shrouded in divine mystery, is only visible to the priests guarding the church. However, during the Ethiopian Orthodox Church's grand festival 'Timkat', which commemorates the baptism of Jesus every January, the 'Tabot' is revealed to the public for just one day each year.

In the northern Tigray region of Ethiopia lies the rugged and breathtaking landscape of the Gheralta area. Here, 13-year-old Kebrom, a bright yet impoverished boy, resides. Since 2020, Tigray has been embroiled in a bloody civil war between Ethiopian government forces and rebels. Although the gunfire ceased after three years, the war left behind countless casualties and destruction. In this land of drought and poverty, Kebrom believes that "God protected our family, keeping us safe and unharmed," as he mentions the sacred 'Abuna Yemata Guh Church'. This church, located atop a 300-meter vertical cliff, is a place few can reach, and it houses the 'Tabot', believed by the people of Gheralta to possess divine power.

Kebrom finds his greatest joy in ascending to the church and communing with God. He dreams of becoming a priest to protect the 'Tabot' at 'Abuna Yemata Guh Church' and to be a source of strength for his family and community. "I feel joy every time I read the Bible. Someday, as a priest, I want to share what I've learned and guide people on the right path," Kebrom confesses.

Narrator Kim Hee-ae remarks, "The path to priesthood may be even more arduous than climbing a cliff," foreshadowing the harsh realities Kebrom will face. Kebrom's brother, who also aspired to be a priest, reached the position of 'sub-priest' but had to leave for Addis Ababa to earn money, unable to complete his studies. In a reality still marred by poverty and the unhealed wounds of war, the journey of faith for young Kebrom, who dreams of priesthood, will be unveiled in the broadcast.

KBS's four-part series 'Sacred Relics' premieres on March 3rd (Tuesday) at 10 PM with the first episode 'Covenant', featuring the story of Ethiopian boy Kebrom. Subsequent episodes, 'Invitation' on March 4th (Wednesday) at 10 PM, 'Word' on March 5th (Thursday) at 10 PM, and 'Heart' on March 12th (Thursday) at 10 PM, will air on KBS 1TV.

Reporter: Kim Se-a, Ten Asia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr