Seoul’s 2026 theatre shows to include Frozen, Spirited Away, Billy Elliot
Broadway imports Hell’s Kitchen and Lempicka, novel adaptation Arang and musical Six also among the South Korean capital’s highlights
By Kwon Mee-yoo
South Korea’s theatre scene is set for another eventful year in 2026, from blockbuster imports to ambitious original works aiming for international success. Here are some of the titles expected to shape the season in Seoul.
The year opened with CJ ENM bringing the stage adaptation of Spirited Away to Seoul. Based on Japanese director Hayao Miyazaki’s animated film, the play – which premiered on January 7 at the Seoul Arts Centre – follows a young girl named Chihiro as she stumbles into a fantastical world of spirits and must find her way back.
The show debuted in Tokyo in 2022, later travelling to London’s West End and Shanghai, and arrives in Seoul as a touring production featuring Japanese performers.
The title role is shared by Japan Academy Film Prize winner Mone Kamishiraishi and Rina Kawaei, formerly of the girl group AKB48. The Seoul production runs through March 22.
Another international arrival is Lempicka, a Broadway musical based on the life of the late Polish painter Tamara de Lempicka, at Seoul’s NOL Theatre COEX Woori Bank Hall from March 21 to June 21.