Reigning for 30 years, The Last Empress returns to stage

And on the local theatrical front

Korea's homegrown musical "The Last Empress" is marking a remarkable milestone this year as it has been on stage for the past three decades.

Our culture correspondent Song Yoo-jin reports.

"I am the queen of Joseon!"

It's one of the most iconic lines in Korean musical history, bringing the final moment of Queen Min to life on stage.

"The Last Empress" tells the story of Queen Min, also known as Empress Myeongseong, the wife of Gojong, the 26th king of the Joseon Dynasty and the first emperor of the short-lived Korean Empire.

She was assassinated in 1895 by Japanese forces, who saw her as a threat to their growing influence in Korea.

This homegrown musical premiered in 1995, exactly a century after her death.

"When I was creating this production, I was searching for a story that could teach history while also being moving and entertaining. Later, when we took the production abroad, people were amazed that we had transformed such a painful chapter of our history into art."

Over the past 30 years, "The Last Empress" has earned its reputation as a "living legend," of Korean musicals.

It was the first Asian musical to be staged on Broadway and the West End.

Even in its 22nd season now, the production continues to evolve.

"The show was mostly sung-through, but we've gradually incorporated more spoken dialogue to enhance storytelling. We've also revived key musical numbers and restructured some scenes to make historical events and information clearer for audiences."

This season boasts its most star-studded lineup to date.

Renowned musical actresses Kim So-hyun, Shin Young-sook, and Cha Ji-yeon take turns portraying Queen Min.

The cast includes both returning veterans and fresh faces, bringing new energy to the production.

"I think this musical stays alive because it never settles, always pushing forward. Being part of it pushes me too. Just when I think I've given my all, I discover new emotions, new ways to interpret the role. That's the beauty of this show. It grows with time, just like we do."

"Even before I entered musical theater, I knew 'The Last Empress' was legendary, as even my mother had seen it before. It's also one of the few historical musicals in Korea. Now, being part of it, I realize just how special and timeless this production is. It's an honor to carry on its legacy."

And the show isn't resting on its legacy, setting its sights on a future spanning over a century.

That effort continues, live on stage, night after night.

"The current season of the musical 'The Last Empress' is on stage at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts' Sejong Grand Theater until March 30th.

Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News."