In the depths of the North Pacific, the “world’s loneliest whale” roams—the 52-Hertz whale, first detected in 1989. Unlike most whales, which communicate at frequencies between 10 and 30 hertz, this one calls at a much higher 52 hertz. Despite its constant singing, no other whales seem to respond. This lonely whale has become a symbol for those who feel unheard, resonating deeply with people around the world. It’s even appeared in popular culture, such as the Korean drama “Extraordinary Attorney Woo,” where the main character’s phone number ends in 5252, and in BTS’s 2015 song “Whalien 52,” where the band expresses feelings of isolation. Leonardo DiCaprio also highlighted the whale in the 2021 documentary “The Loneliest Whale: The Search for 52,” which was well-received in the U.S.

Sonoko Machida, the author of the original novel behind the film "52-Hertz Whales," worked as a hairdresser before becoming a novelist. She shared that the feelings of self-doubt she once experienced became a source of strength for her writing. /Osamu Hoshikawa

Now, the 52-Hertz whale has made its way to theaters ahead of the Chuseok holiday. The film “52-Hertz Whales” (2024), which premiered on Sep 4., offers a message of comfort, showing how a single act of kindness can save someone from loneliness. The movie addresses tough topics like young caregivers looking after their parents alone and child abuse. Directed by Izuru Narushima, who won Best Director at the 35th Japan Academy Awards, it stars rising talents Hana Sugisaki and Jun Shison. Upon its release in Japan last March, the film topped the box office for art films.

The movie is based on Sonoko Machida’s debut full-length novel of the same name, published in 2020, which earned her the 18th Japan Booksellers’ Award in 2021. In Korea, Machida is widely known for her novel series The Convenience Store by the Sea, which has sold over 300,000 copies. In an interview with The Chosunilbo, Machida shared, “Sometimes, a community formed through emotional bonds, rather than blood, can be just as supportive as family. By reaching out and offering help, we can help each other escape loneliness.” This marked her first interview with Korean media.

In March, the film "52-Hertz Whales" was released in Japan, topping the art film box office. The lead actors, Hana Sugisaki (center) and Jun Shison (right), are rising stars in Japan. /Happy Song

Machida, too, once felt like her voice went unheard, much like the 52-Hertz whale. While studying at a hairdressing school in Kitakyushu, she often gazed out at the sea for comfort during hard times. These memories of the ocean frequently appear in her works, including 52-Hertz Whales. “As a hairdresser, I often felt inadequate and depressed, thinking I wasn’t good enough,” she shared. “But after becoming a novelist, those feelings became an asset in my writing.”

“52-Hertz Whales” was inspired by the birth of her first daughter and the heartbreaking story of a baby abandoned in a drum can. “I felt compelled to write about those who cry for help but are met with silence.” This sentiment shaped her novel, emphasizing the need for a broader social safety net beyond the family to prevent isolation. In the film, the protagonist, Kiko (Hana Sugisaki), cares for her stepfather in place of her neglectful mother. Overwhelmed by her situation, Kiko contemplates suicide, but meeting Ango (Jun Shison) helps her find a reason to live. Kiko then extends the love she received to a young boy next door. “If someone like me is okay, I’ll listen to you. Please don’t stop singing your song.”

Machida listens to BTS’s “Whalien 52″ when she writes, a song introduced to her by a reader after her book was published. “BTS’s song is beautiful and deeply heartfelt. I listen to it when I need a lift.” Looking ahead, she has a clear goal: “I want to become a graceful grandmother who reaches out to support the younger generation.”