Comedian Jim Gaffigan comes to Seoul
Jim Gaffigan / Courtesy of Robyn Von Swank
By Jon Dunbar
U.S. comedian Jim Gaffigan is stopping in Seoul next Tuesday as part of his
.
The Grammy-nominated comedian, actor, bestselling author and father of five ― yes, five ― will share his stand-up comedy act at ECC Samsung Hall on the campus of Ewha Womans University.
“I have always been excited by the Korean culture and getting an opportunity to perform there will be very special,” Gaffigan told The Korea Times in an email interview. “Whether I was doing a show in Korea or not I would want to visit. I do know some of the more recent history and some of the popular trends like K-pop. Korea is a fascinating unique culture that has always been alluring to me.”
Gaffigan's humor settles around his life ― fatherhood, his Catholic faith and everyday observations. Though he has earned a reputation for “clean” comedy, this may be underestimating his talents and his experience.
“It is my belief that comedians do the type of comedy they are going to do anyway ― and they get credit or criticism for it. I do comedy that I think is funny. Some of my favorite comedians are dirty. I think some of it is my family culture and where I grew up has made my comedy not centered on shock or filthy language,” he said.
“In the end, it has to be funny. That is the only objective I am looking for. Funny.”
He said audiences can expect entirely new comedy material, not already seen on “Noble Ape” or his five other specials streaming on Netflix.
“Having done numerous international shows I find the best material is first-hand knowledge from being in the country. I think it's important to do research and acknowledge the cultural differences and from there that is where gems of material come from,” he said.
“I don't really have to tailor my material. That being said, there will be material that will be unique to Korea and my experience there.”
Gaffigan has risen to the heights of American comedy. He starred in the
with his wife Jeannie Gaffigan for 23 episodes, giving a comedic look at their lives with five children in a cramped New York apartment. His second book,
debuted at No. 3 on the New York Times Bestseller List. He's played rooms big and small, performing stand-up at Madison Square Garden in New York.
“Performing at Madison Square Garden was an amazing experience but the more intimate the setting typically, the more fun the show,” he said. “That being said, larger venues have become more and more intimate with technological advancement with audio and screens in the venues.”
The show starts at 8 p.m. and
“Quality Time Tour” stand-up live show