This summer Korea’s theater scene is dominated by jukebox musicals—shows that weave popular songs into new narratives. Long-running Korean favorite “Geunaldul” (based on Kim Kwang-seok’s songs) returns for its seventh season, following a mystery across two decades set in the Blue House security unit. New productions include “The Pied Piper” built on folk legend Song Chang-sik’s hits, set in colonial-era Gyeongseong and portraying resilient youth, and the Korean premiere of Broadway’s “Hell’s Kitchen” (Alicia Keys) — a coming‑of‑age story about a teen finding her voice in 1990s Manhattan. Late summer brings “Gwanghwamun Sonata” featuring composer Lee Young-hoon’s nostalgic hits in a time‑travel romance. Star casting, familiar songs, and emotional nostalgia are expected to draw audiences this season.
