10/11/2024
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K-Musicals have become another stage for K-pop idols, allowing fans to see their favorite stars up close. Since Bada(S.E.S.) appeared in Peppermint in 2003, followed by Ock Joohyun (Fin.K.L) in Aida, and Kim Junsu (JYJ) in Mozart!—both of whom won at the Korea Musical Awards—K-pop idols have increasingly made their mark in the musical world.
These days, idols taking on musicals is simply part of the K-Musical scene. On stage, they showcase a level of energy and charm that they could not express as a group member. Fans have plenty to look forward to in the second half of 2024, with new productions starring MJ (Astro), Jung Taekwoon (better known by his stage name Leo of VIXX), Kim Sungkyu (Infinite), and Seo Eunkwang (BtoB). With the end of intermission, the second act of the idol-starring musicals in 2024 has just begun.
Ock Joohyun (Fin.K.L) is now more famous as a musical actress than as an idol. She has already proven her worth, winning The Musical Awards for Best Actress twice and Best Supporting Actress once. Her repertoire of well-known musical numbers is extensive, with songs like “Memory” from Cats, “Rebecca” from Rebecca, and “Ich Gehör Nur Mir” from Elisabeth being recognized as if they were her own hits.
In 2024, she was chosen to star in La Rose de Versailles, an original musical adaptation of the legendary shōjo manga by Riyoko Ikeda. She plays Lady Oscar, a woman who dresses as a man to guard Queen Marie-Antoinette. The vocal and acting techniques for the role were were more difficult than what she had previously tackled, making this a new challenge, but she lived up to her name! Her powerful voice is showcased once again with the five-octave high note in the number 'You Only Give to Me .' She has even earned the nickname 'Ockscar' (a combination of Ock Joohyun and Oscar).
Mio Fratello stars Kim Donghyun (Boyfriend). As Boyfriend's leader and lead vocalist, Donghyun has been active in both dramas and musicals, appearing in a total of six musicals just last year.
Set against the backdrop of 1930s Manhattan, this musical explores the friendship and love of the Italian Mafia. He plays Sonny boy , the boss of the Bocetti family, who runs for the Senate. A unique aspect of the show is that he performs multiple roles, allowing the audience to see his different characters within the same production. Despite its serious theme, the musical balances the mood with comic elements, along with a variety of genres like rock and jazz, making it enjoyable to listen to.
Buchihanan is based on the novel Buchihanan’s Well , written by Jang Yongmin, who is well known for The Ultimate Child. Jung Taekwoon (Leo of VIXX) and Yoo Youngjae (ex-member of B.A.P) are cast in dual roles, portraying Nuri, the delivery worker in current life, and Buchihanan, the warrior in the past life. This fantasy musical traverses time and boasts stunning stage directing and costumes. The actors' action sequences are captivating, and the romance adds an extra layer of appeal. Their appealing love stories between Buchihanan and Ola as well as Nuri and Taegyeong enchant the audience, transcending time and space.
To elaborate on the two lead actors, Jung Taekwoon, a popular idol, has built a solid reputation through major musicals like Elisabeth and West Side Story since 2014. For Yoo Youngjae, who appeared in dramas including Mr. Queen, this is his first venture into musicals. Jung Taekwoon, an experienced musical theatre actor, and Yoo Youngjae, a novice actor, contrast in their charm. In particular, many elements that give freedom to highlight their talents make this work a must-see for fans.
Gwanghwamun Love Song, featuring Seo Eunkwang (BtoB), will be eagerly welcomed by his fans. The title is taken from the popular song of the iconic Korean singer Lee Moonsae. It recalls the late composer Lee Younghoon, who wrote many of the singer’s hit songs.
The story follows Myungwoo, who finds himself caught between life and death in the emergency room. In a state of unconsciousness, he awakens in a place called the “Exhibition of Memories” and embarks on a journey guided by Wolha to revisit his most cherished memories. The questions Myungwoo asks on his journey are also posed to the audience.
Seo Eunkwang, the leader and main vocalist of BtoB, takes on the role of Wolha, the master of memories and the keeper of fate, with his playful personality blended perfectly into the character. His solid vocal and acting skills, demonstrated in Jesus Christ Superstar and The Three Musketeers, also make him a guaranteed performer. The role of Myungwoo is played by a famous rock singer Yoon Dohyun.