As the musical "The Phantom of the Opera" marks the 40th anniversary of its world premiere, actors Kim So-hyun and Yoon Young-seok, who starred in the 2001 original Korean premiere, have shared their congratulatory messages.
Kim So-hyun said, "Hearing that 'The Phantom of the Opera,' the production that changed my life, has reached its 40th anniversary makes me feel truly joyful and deeply moved. It has endured for 40 years as one of the most beloved productions in the world, and I hope it continues to be cherished and loved by even more people and shines on stage forever."
"The Phantom of the Opera" first raised its curtain in London's West End on October 9, 1986. The Korean-language production began in 2001 and celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.
For both Kim So-hyun and Yoon Young-seok, this production served as their musical theater debut. During the 2001 original Korean premiere, the auditions to cast the Phantom drew attention at every phase. Yoon Young-seok was selected as Korea's very first Phantom after undergoing nine rounds of auditions over four months. Kim So-hyun, a vocal music graduate of Seoul National University, made her musical debut on this stage in the role of Christine.
Yoon Young-seok went on to participate in every Korean-language production since, taking the stage more than 600 times. Following the 2023 season, he will return for this 40th anniversary special season in the role of Monsieur André.
Yoon Young-seok reflected, "It is a production that feels like home, having allowed me to be reborn as a musical actor. I was incredibly lucky to begin my debut with 'The Phantom of the Opera,' which also came with tremendous pressure. I still vividly recall the immense happiness I felt after completing the first performance." He added, "I offer my heartfelt congratulations on the 40th anniversary of 'The Phantom of the Opera' and feel honored to add 25 years to its magnificent journey."
The 2001 Korean premiere attracted an audience of 240,000. According to the production company, the musical is recognized for introducing comprehensive industry systems—including production, sales, and marketing—to the local market, serving as a catalyst for the industrialization of Korean musicals. It later reached a cumulative audience of 1 million in 2012 and surpassed 1.5 million with the 2023 Busan production.
As Andrew Lloyd Webber's signature masterpiece, "The Phantom of the Opera" has been performed in 23 languages across 217 cities in 52 countries, drawing an audience of more than 160 million people. It depicts the story of the Phantom, a musical genius who hides his face behind a mask, Christine, who grows through his music, and Raoul, who loves Christine.
For the 40th anniversary special season, Choi Jae-rim, Jeon Dong-suk, and Park Kang-hyun have been cast as the Phantom; Lee Hae-won and Choi Sun-ho as Christine; and Song Won-geun and Kim Sung-sik as Raoul. Yoon Young-seok will portray Monsieur André, Lee Sang-joon will play Monsieur Firmin, Kim Ah-sun will appear as Madame Giry, Evelyn and Han Bo-ra will share the role of Carlotta, Lee Sang-moon will play Piangi, and Jo Ha-rin will take on the role of Meg Giry.
The 40th anniversary special season of "The Phantom of the Opera" will run from December 22 to February 28, 2027, at Blue Square Woori Bank Hall in Seoul.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)