’Rent’ Returns to Korea: A Raw, Living Portrait of Survival and Love
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
The long-running musical Rent, reimagined for Korea in its 10th season, keeps its gritty heart while highlighting contemporary emotional nuance. Set in 1990s New York’s East Village, the show follows struggling artists facing poverty, illness (AIDS), loss and love. The Korean production blends rock, R&B, tango and ballads with a five-piece live band, using music to propel characters’ emotions and choices. The cast mixes returning performers—whose history with the show adds depth—with new faces bringing fresh energy. Standout moments include a moving “Seasons of Love” and authentic onstage guitar playing that deepens Roger’s (character) connection to music. Mimi’s (character) vulnerability and the chemistry of the new Roger–Mimi pairing are highlighted, especially in “Light My Candle.” The minimalist staging lets music and relationships dominate, making the story feel relevant to today’s youth facing uncertainty. Runs through Feb 22, 2026 at COEX Artium. (East Village: a New York neighborhood; AIDS: acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)
