The Sejong Center’s First Grand Opera: Puccini’s ‘Turandot’…Tenor SeokJong Baek Makes His Korean Debut

'The Sejong Center for the Performing Arts' returns in full splendor to the opera theater— 'Puccini''s masterwork, 'Turandot'. This summer, an impressive mise-en-scène crafted by world-leading tenor 'SeokJong Baek', soprano 'Ewa Plonka', and maestro 'Roberto Abbado' will take over the stage.

Puccini’s final masterpiece, 'Turandot,' opens in grand style this summer at The Sejong Center for the Performing Arts’ opera theater.

Following 'Norma' in 2023, 'Otello' in 2024, The Sejong Center for the Performing Arts continues its lineup of premium opera with 'Turandot,' featuring world-class production teams and vocalists. In particular, unlike what was previously presented at the CJ Towol Theater, this production is the first complete staging in the opera theater, drawing major anticipation from opera fans.

The 100th Anniversary of the Premiere—Tenor SeokJong Baek’s Korean Debut Under Global Spotlight

At this stage celebrating the work’s 100th anniversary since its premiere, the figure drawing the most attention is undoubtedly tenor SeokJong Baek. After performing at major venues worldwide, including the New York Metropolitan Opera and the Royal Opera House in the UK, he makes his official Korean opera-stage debut in this role as Calaf. Experience the breadth of his artistry firsthand—highly praised by overseas critics with "a fantastic 'Nessun Dorma'".

For the role of Turandot, soprano Ewa Plonka, active at prestigious European houses such as La Scala in Italy, takes the stage. In addition, soprano Seo Seon-young and tenor Kim Young-woo, making their role debuts, join the cast to add a rich range of variety and charm. Also joining them are top-tier domestic and international vocalists, including Hwang Soo-mi and Shin Eun-hye as Liu, and Shim In-sung and Park Young-doo as Timur.

Maestro Roberto Abbado’s Conducting and Sensory-Feel Direction

Bringing authentic Puccini sound to life is entrusted to maestro Roberto Abbado, a master of opera conducting. After taking office as Music Director of the National Symphony Orchestra in 2026, he will step into opera conducting there for the first time, guiding Puccini’s delicate melodies with a precise yet dignified baton. Director Jung Sun-young will unravel the final riddle left behind by Puccini through a modern narrative and sleek mise-en-scène.

Tickets for this summer’s planned opera, 'Turandot,' at The Sejong Center for the Performing Arts go on sale via early purchase on April 28 and general sales on April 29. Tickets can be obtained through The Sejong Center’s website, the call center, and NOL Ticket.