Korean Original Musical 'Hongryeon' Expands to Shanghai, China

The original musical 'Hongryeon', based on traditional Korean folklore, will take the stage in China. This work, which has garnered attention for its unique genre combining traditional Korean music and rock, is taking its first step into the Asian market.

Production company Martin Entertainment announced on the 15th that the licensed performance of the musical 'Hongryeon' will be held from the 23rd to the 9th of next month at the Shanghai Public Theater. This performance will be conducted in a 'replica' form, faithfully reproducing the original work's script, music, arrangements, direction, and choreography.

'Hongryeon' tells the story of Hongryeon, who is captured in the underworld court, Cheondojeong, on charges of murdering her father and injuring her brother, as she faces trial by the underworld deity, Bari. This original musical, based on the traditional Korean tales 'Janghwa Hongryeonjeon' and 'Baridegi', is evaluated as a Korean-style rock musical that combines traditional Korean melodies with rock.

The work received recognition for its artistic value by winning the Best Musical Award (for productions under 400 seats) at the 9th Korean Musical Awards early this year after its premiere in July last year. Previously, in July, a workshop was held in Guangzhou, China, as part of preparations for its expansion into Asia.

Producer Ok Han-na of Martin Entertainment stated, "This Shanghai performance, realized after a long period of meticulous monitoring and collaboration, is a precious fruit of the belief that 'this story should be shared with more places.'" He added, "I am very happy to present a work that has been loved greatly in Korea to the Asian stage."