The Korea Times

INTERVIEW 'Kinky Boots' celebrates 10 years of acceptance, joy in Korea

When "Kinky Boots" first strutted onto Korean stages in 2014, few could have predicted the decade-long love that would follow. With its infectious energy, charismatic yet relatable characters and touching narrative, the musical has not only entertained but deeply resonated with audiences here. Korean resident director Shim Sul-in, who has led the show since its 2016 revival, attributes this lasting appeal to the show's unique connection with Korean audiences.

Oct 30, 2024By Kwon Mee-yoo

[INTERVIEW] 'Kinky Boots' celebrates 10 years of acceptance, joy in Korea

Trends

Princess Hwasun's love story retold with immersive tech at Changdeok Palace

Princess Hwasun (1720-58), the daughter of King Yeongjo the 21st king of the 1392-1910 Joseon Dynasty, is remembered for her poignant love story. Now, her tale is being told in an immersive and high-tech way at Seoul's royal palaces, offering visitors a unique glimpse into her life.

Oct 25, 2024By Kwon Mee-yoo

Princess Hwasun's love story retold with immersive tech at Changdeok Palace

People & Events

Remembering independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun

Visitors look at the handwriting of independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun, which features the word "dongnip," meaning independence in Chinese characters, displayed at the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History in central Seoul, Wednesday. The museum is holding a special exhibition titled, "The Writings of Ahn Junggeun," commemorating Ahn's patriotic deeds, through March 31, 2025. The exhibit is co-organized with the Ahn Junggeun Memorial Association and the Ahn Junggeun Memorial Museum. Yonhap

Oct 23, 2024By Kwon Mee-yoo

Remembering independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun

Music

Korean Chamber Orchestra, Kronberg Academy to host concert for young musicians

The Korean Chamber Orchestra (KCO), in collaboration with Germany's Kronberg Academy, will host a special concert featuring young Korean and German musicians at the Arts Center Seoul's Doam Hall in Jongno District, Seoul, on Nov. 29.

Oct 23, 2024By Kwon Mee-yoo

Korean Chamber Orchestra, Kronberg Academy to host concert for young musicians

K-pop

Germany launches first K-pop radio show

Germany is launching its first-ever radio show dedicated solely to K-pop, signaling the increasing influence of Korean popular culture worldwide.

Oct 14, 2024By Kwon Mee-yoo

Arts & Theater

KCCNY unveils Kang Ik-joong's 'Hangeul Wall'

"Hangeul Wall," a towering 22-meter public art installation, was unveiled at the Korean Cultural Center New York (KCCNY) on Wednesday, bringing together the wisdom and experiences of people from around the world, celebrating Hangeul — the Korean alphabet.

Sep 27, 2024By Kwon Mee-yoo

KCCNY unveils Kang Ik-joong's 'Hangeul Wall'

Opinion

September is for art in Korea

Just a decade ago, the idea of Seoul hosting a premium international art fair such as Frieze would have seemed absurd. Back then, Korean art, while respected, struggled to gain international recognition beyond a few prominent names.

Sep 25, 2024By Kwon Mee-yoo

Music

Angela Gheorghiu cites no-encore agreement for 'Tosca' disruption

Soprano Angela Gheorghiu has responded to the controversy surrounding her disruption of Puccini’s "Tosca" in Seoul, Sunday, noting that her actions stemmed from a pre-arranged agreement barring encores. However, the event organizer refuted Gheorghiu’s claims, stating that no such formal agreement was made and that her disruption infringed on the audience's right to enjoy the performance.

Sep 12, 2024By Kwon Mee-yoo

Angela Gheorghiu cites no-encore agreement for 'Tosca' disruption

Soprano Angela Gheorghiu faces backlash after interrupting 'Tosca' in Seoul

People & Events

Hangeul-themed products at Maison & Objet

Visitors explore the National Hangeul Museum's booth featuring Hangeul (Korean alphabet) cultural products at the Maison & Objet in Paris Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre, Sept. 6. Showcasing some 64 Hangeul-themed items at the largest lifestyle trade fair in Europe, the booth attracted buyers from all over the world, resulting in approximately 62 purchase consultations worth 1.6 billion won. Courtesy of National Hangeul Museum

Sep 11, 2024By Kwon Mee-yoo

Hangeul-themed products at Maison & Objet

Arts & Theater

INTERVIEW The Trinity merges art with diplomacy, hospitality, ESG

In a world where art is often regarded as a luxury, So-jung Trinity Park is pioneering a new approach by using creative expression as a tool for diplomacy, business, and cultural exchange. As the director of The Trinity, Park manages a wide-ranging portfolio that includes art marketing and cultural ESG campaigns, guided by her vision of embedding art into various industries.

Sep 6, 2024By Kwon Mee-yoo

Kwon Mee-yoo

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