Musical Aladdin (Image courtesy of S&Co.)
SEOUL, Jan. 5 (Korea Bizwire) — The musical Aladdin emerged as the highest-grossing production in South Korea in 2024, according to preliminary data from the Korea Performing Arts Box Office Information System (KOPIS).
The production, based on Disney’s animated classic, captivated audiences following its November debut and maintained high ticket sales into early 2025.
Directed by Broadway veterans and featuring a star-studded cast including Kim Jun-su, Seo Kyung-su, and Park Kang-hyun, Aladdin sold out most of its available seats through March and is scheduled to run in Seoul until June. The production’s success reflects its strong appeal to both domestic and international audiences.
Top Performers of the Year
Ranking second was Frankenstein, an adaptation of Mary Shelley’s novel and one of South Korea’s original creations. The musical celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special run in June, featuring actors Yoo Jun-sang, Shin Sung-rok, and Kyuhyun. Since its premiere, Frankenstein has been recognized with numerous awards, including nine at the 8th Musical Awards.
In third place was Chicago, which reopened in June after a three-year hiatus. The Korean-language revival featured prominent local talents such as Choi Jung-won, Yoon Gong-ju, and Ivy, drawing strong audience interest.
Other high-ranking productions included Kinky Boots, Jekyll & Hyde (20th-anniversary performance), Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Hadestown, Hero (15th-anniversary performance), Les Misérables, and The Rose of Versailles.
Musical Chicago (Image courtesy of
SEENSEE CO.)
Trends in South Korea’s Musical Market
Eight of the top 10 musicals last year were revivals, with only two, Aladdin and The Rose of Versailles, making their South Korean debuts. The dominance of proven hits highlights an industry reliant on established successes rather than new works.
Of the top 10 productions, three were original Korean musicals (Frankenstein, Hero, and The Rose of Versailles), while seven were licensed adaptations of foreign works. Among these, The Rose of Versailles stood out as the only original domestic musical debut to enter the top 10.
Looking Ahead
As South Korea’s musical market continues to grow, the focus remains on balancing the appeal of internationally licensed hits with fostering original domestic productions. With Aladdin leading the charge in 2024, the stage is set for a dynamic 2025 as both new and returning productions vie for audience attention.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
