Top 5 Musicals in South Korea: American Productions Dominate the Stage

This year, approximately 102 musicals have graced the stage for audiences. Among them, the top five with the highest ticket sales were all originally produced in the United States. What is it about these productions that captivates Korean audiences?

According to the Korea Performing Arts Box Office Information System (KOPIS), the musical with the highest ticket sales from January 1 to October 21 this year was 'Aladdin.' The show ran from November last year until June 22.

Based on Disney's animated film, 'Aladdin' was produced by Disney Theatrical Productions in 2011. The story follows Aladdin, a poor boy from the streets of Agrabah, who embarks on a journey of adventure, love, and self-discovery after meeting the genie from a magic lamp.

The production features multiple illusion effects, lavish costumes, and set designs. It showcases a spectacle of tap dance and ensemble performances, including a flying carpet scene that brings the magic to life on stage.

Despite VIP seats costing up to 190,000 KRW, the star-studded cast, including Kim Junsu and model-turned-actress Lee Sung-kyung, led to sold-out shows. Tickets for performances scheduled from November 2024 to February 1, 2025, have already sold out.

A production representative stated, "As a family-friendly show, the demand for tickets was high."

After concluding its run in Seoul in June, 'Aladdin' continued to draw crowds in Busan until September, securing the top spot as the most-watched musical of the year.

The second most-watched musical was 'Wicked,' which ran from July to October. This American production, which premiered on Broadway in 2003, is based on Gregory Maguire's novel that reimagines the classic 'The Wizard of Oz' story, focusing on the witches Elphaba and Glinda before Dorothy's arrival.

The recent performance marked the first return of the original production to Korea in 13 years, sparking interest among audiences. Some attendees rushed to book tickets, unsure of when they might see it again, contributing to a record-breaking attendance of over one million. A production representative noted, "The show has a strong fan base, and the recent film adaptations have attracted new audiences."

'Phantom of the Opera' secured the third spot, running from May 31 to mid-August. Based on Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel, this musical debuted in Houston, Texas, in 1991.

This year's performance celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Korean premiere, featuring popular actors like Park Hyo-shin and Jeon Dong-seok. The production moved to the larger Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, enhancing its scale.

A production representative highlighted the show's literary charm, musical grandeur, and the elegance of opera and ballet combined on one stage as key elements of its appeal. "The 10th-anniversary enhancements offered audiences a unique experience," they added.

'Jekyll & Hyde' ranked fourth, despite concluding its run in May. Based on Robert Louis Stevenson's novel, the musical explores the duality of human nature through Dr. Jekyll's experiments. It premiered in Houston, Texas, in 1990.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in Korea, the show featured a star-studded cast, including Hong Kwang-ho and Shin Sung-rok, and surpassed 2 million in cumulative attendance.

Audience reviews praised the actors' dynamic performances and the show's intense catharsis.

According to KOPIS, 'Aladdin's Busan performance ranked fifth, but the newly opened 'Moulin Rouge!' is quickly gaining popularity.

'Moulin Rouge!' is based on Baz Luhrmann's 2001 film and debuted on Broadway in 2019, winning 10 Tony Awards in 2021. The story revolves around the star 'Satine,' the aspiring composer 'Christian,' and their love triangle with 'Monroth.'

The production captivates from the start with 2,700 lights and dazzling performances, showcasing human desires through its characters.

Featuring around 70 pop hits, including Lady Gaga's 'Bad Romance' and Adele's 'Rolling in the Deep,' the musical uses mashup techniques to engage the audience.

A CJ ENM representative noted, "From the moment audiences enter, they are immersed in the show's world, with a timeless love story and explosive choreography driving its popularity."

Next year promises a diverse lineup, including American-origin musicals like 'Romeo and Juliet' and renowned Korean productions such as 'The Garden of Dreams' and 'The Last Secret.' There is anticipation to see if domestic works will surpass American masterpieces.

Reporter Dayeon Jeong, TenAsia light@tenasia.co.kr