Emotional Impact of 'Hongryeon': A Mesmerizing Fusion of Korean Folklore and Theater

Just five actors moved the hearts of 320 audience members. In a small underground theater, the emotional depth of 'Han' resonated throughout the venue, drawing tears from many. The thunderous applause that followed was as powerful as any large theater.

The original musical 'Hongryeon,' which opened on the 28th of last month, is based on the traditional Korean folktales 'Janghwa Hongryeonjeon' and 'Baridegi.' The story begins with the protagonists, Hongryeon and Bari, meeting in a posthumous trial.

Hongryeon stands trial in the afterlife's court, accused of murdering her father and injuring her sister. She claims, "I did harm them, but it was to deliver divine justice, so I am not guilty." However, her statements gradually reveal contradictions, and Bari, along with Kanglim, Woljikchasa, and Iljikchasa, continues the trial to uncover Hongryeon's true crimes. Throughout this process, the two characters confront each other's wounds, exploring themes of violence, silence, memory, and truth.

The stage is a compact space of about 6 pyeong. A circular set symbolizing the afterlife's court and red knots transport the audience to an otherworldly realm. The tiles on the floor are not mere props; they change colors—red, blue, and green—according to the musical numbers, visually conveying the emotional shifts of Hongryeon and Bari.

The standout feature is the actors' deeply immersive performances. At the trial's outset, Hongryeon directs complaints and dissatisfaction towards the audience, displaying an insincere attitude. However, when Bari reveals her own wounds and embraces Hongryeon, Hongryeon's emotions crumble, revealing her as a child scarred by family trauma.

Bari, too, initially exudes charisma as a stern judge. Yet, with a single word, "Aga" (child), she approaches Hongryeon, gradually revealing her warm interior and capturing the audience's hearts.

The narrative then transitions into a 'Ssitgimgut,' a ritual to cleanse and release troubled spirits. In this scene, numbers combining rock music and geomungo-centered Korean traditional music intersect, unleashing the repressed emotions of Hongryeon and Bari. As their 'Han' is resolved, the audience is left with a profound sense of resonance. Even after the long ritual concludes and the lights come on, the lingering impact remains.

As of the 10th, 'Hongryeon' holds a rating of 9.7 out of 10. The production received a 9.9 rating during its 2024 premiere and won the Best Production Award (under 400 seats) at the 9th Korean Musical Awards.

Meanwhile, the musical 'Hongryeon' will be performed at the Chungmu Art Center's Middle Theater Black until May 17.

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