Korean musical kicks off its Japanese run

A scene from “Moon Embracing the Sun.” (IDA Entertainment)

Korea’s homespun musical “Moon Embracing the Sun” kicked off its Japanese run at the Aoyama Theatre in Tokyo on Thursday, starring Lina from the girl group The Grace and Sung-je from the dance group Supernova.

Based on MBC’s enormously successful 2012 drama series of the same name, the musical tells the moving love story of Hwon, a cynical but attractive fictional Joseon king, and Yeon-woo, a beautiful female shaman. The musical also deals with the court intrigues of those vying for political power in the royal household.

The musical premiered in Seoul in July at the Seoul Arts Center, starring musical star Kim Da-hyeon as Hwon. It was recognized for its engaging narrative and distinctive stage design, which features Korea’s traditional patchwork cloth, bojagi.

The show on Thursday received roaring applause and a standing ovation, according to news reports. The current Japanese run, which consists of a total of eight shows, wraps up on Sunday.

By Claire Lee (dyc@heraldcorp.com)