Kim Junsu Challenges Comedy Transformation in Broadway Hit Musical 'Beetlejuice'

Singer and actor Kim Junsu is officially challenging the comedy genre through the musical 〈Beetlejuice〉. At the production presentation held on December 1 in Gangnam, Seoul, Kim Junsu stated, "I will showcase an energetic, cute, and charming mischievous character."

Celebrating his 15th year in musical theater, Kim Junsu takes on the role of the mischievous ghost 'Beetlejuice' who wanders between the living and the dead. He has been cast in a trio with Jung Sung-hwa and Jung Won-young, each presenting different interpretations.

〈Beetlejuice〉 is based on the film of the same name by director Tim Burton. It tells the story of Lydia, a girl who can see ghosts, and the guide to the afterlife, Beetlejuice.

The work premiered on Broadway in 2019 and was nominated for eight categories at the American Tony Awards. In Korea, it was performed for the first time in a licensed format in 2021, and this is the first revival in four years.

Kim Junsu recalled that he received a casting offer during the original run but could not participate. He explained, "I had a desire for comedy to the extent that I enjoyed ad-libbing, and while it may not be a comedy play, I really liked the musical 〈Aladdin〉 which had many fun elements and a stage full of laughter."

He also added, "I have never shown a mistake or a curse word anywhere, but in this work, I will show a more unrestrained side."

Kim Junsu has played many surreal characters in musicals such as 〈Dracula〉 and 〈Elisabeth〉. He stated, "My unique vocal tone and being accustomed to expressing through my body as an idol have helped me in embodying these characters."

Jung Sung-hwa, who is participating in the revival after the original run, stated, "The role requires exaggerated acting from facial expressions to vocal tone," and added, "While other roles have strengths and weaknesses, I will portray my role continuously as 'strong, strong, strong.' Those who want that will feel satisfied." He continued, "Initially, it is a bizarre ghost, but I will gradually convey emotional lines so that the audience can feel sympathy."

Jung Won-young, newly cast this time, expressed, "This work allows me to fulfill my dreams as a comedian, singer, and actor," and stated, "I will present a unique interpretation that combines the strengths of the two senior actors."

In this revival, the localization of the script has been significantly enhanced. To reduce the gap in understanding that may arise from cultural differences, comedian Lee Chang-ho participated in the comedy adaptation work.

Lee Chang-ho stated, "When I joined the work, it was like seeing a 'high-end luxury watch,' as the production team and actors were intricately working together," and added, "I played a role in bringing in a lot of materials, and the director, writers, and actors helped to incorporate them into the script." He continued, "Each actor will have their own fun, and I think it would be good to see it about three times."

Jang Min-je, who reprises the role of Lydia, stated, "Thanks to the localized script, the play has become more dramatic," and added, "It is interesting that the three Beetlejuice actors have such different styles that the audience's reactions also change."

The performance will take place from December 16 to March 22, 2026, at LG Arts Center in Seoul.