SBS's 'Three Perspectives' Explores the Dual Nature of Oxygen and Its Impact on Health

SBS's knowledge and health variety show 'Three Perspectives' delves into fascinating stories from scholars about world-famous cave paintings and one of the most significant events in Earth's history, the Great Oxygenation Event, which occurred around 2.4 billion years ago.

Airing on the 26th at 8:35 AM, 'Three Perspectives' features MC Kim Seok-hoon, announcer So Seul-ji, science writer Kwak Jae-sik, docent Lee Chang-yong, family medicine specialist Seo Myung-won, and pharmacist Jang Se-kyung as they explore the life-giving and life-threatening properties of 'oxygen.'

Oxygen is often described as a 'double-edged sword.' You may have noticed metals changing color over time. The bronze mirror, the Statue of Liberty, and the Capitol dome were originally golden and reddish. 'Three Perspectives' explains these changes as 'oxidation' and highlights how this process is closely linked to our bodies.

Typically, about 1-3% of the oxygen we inhale is converted into reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS are highly reactive and difficult to control, attacking cells. Of the approximately 500 liters of oxygen we use daily, about 15 liters are transformed into ROS, which attack cells.

Pharmacist Jang Se-kyung warns that a continuous increase in ROS can affect aging, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases, describing them as "difficult to control and aggressive."

Actor Kim Seok-hoon and announcer So Seul-ji focus on the surprising fact that oxygen, essential for life, can also threaten it, addressing related questions one by one.

Episode 42 of 'Three Perspectives,' which explores ways to protect our bodies in the invisible war with oxygen, airs at 8:35 AM.

Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr