Les Misérables Musical Returns to Korea with 25th Anniversary Concert Highlights

The musical Les Misérables continues to generate significant buzz in Korea, particularly with its licensed productions. This work, based on Victor Hugo's novel, is considered a challenging production to stage due to its strict licensing, large scale, and demanding musical numbers, making its appearances highly anticipated events for theatergoers.

Recent licensed performances took place in November 2023 at Blue Square Shinhan Card Hall, with viewings extending into January 2024. Notable Korean cast members included Choi Jae-rim as Jean Valjean, Jo Jung-eun as Fantine, and Kim Soo-ha as Eponine. The musical first premiered in Korea in December 2012 at the Yongin Poeun Art Center, featuring Jung Sung-hwa as Jean Valjean and Park Ji-yeon as Eponine. The internationally acclaimed 25th Anniversary Concert from 2010 showcased talents like Ramin Karimloo, Norm Lewis as Javert, and Lea Salonga as Fantine, with the production originating from Victor Hugo's novel and adapted for London's West End by Cameron Mackintosh.

Local bloggers shared their experiences, noting the difficulty of securing tickets for the Korean productions. They expressed profound happiness at witnessing the performances, praising the story's intricate structure and the exceptional capabilities required of the actors for its challenging songs. The 25th Anniversary Concert, in particular, left a strong impression on some, who found it even more moving than the film or original stage productions, highlighting the powerful ensemble work and individual performances.