A steady-seller musical is making a buzzworthy comeback after three years, returning for its 7th season with a powerful mix of veterans and rising stars.
On the 30th, a press conference for the musical The Days was held. Director Jang Yoo-jung attended alongside actors Ryu Soo-young, Choi Jin-hyuk, Kim Jung-hyun, Park Kyu-won, Yoon Shi-yoon, Sandeul, and Yoo Seon-ho to share a wide range of stories from the production.
The Days is set in the Presidential Security Service at Cheong Wa Dae, unraveling a mysterious case that jumps between past and present. It’s a jukebox musical powered by the late singer Kim Kwang-seok’s beloved hits like 'Around Thirty', 'A Private’s Letter', and 'Though I Loved You', now entering its 7th season. Director Jang said, "This season shines with an overwhelming combination of actors," adding, "You’ll feel the synergy that comes from each actor interpreting the same character in a completely different way." She continued, "The greatest strength of this work is Kim Kwang-seok’s music. These songs tap into essential human emotions and never chase trends, which is why they resonate so deeply with audiences."
Reflecting on steering the show into its seventh season, Jang admitted, "It’s an honor, but it also comes with the pressure to make every season different," noting that "the biggest challenge is striking the balance of keeping it fresh without making it feel unfamiliar." This season, she revealed, "We’ve added a dramatically new episode that more concretely shows why Jeong-hak becomes torn between Mu-yeong and her (or him), strengthening that narrative thread."
Ryu Soo-young expressed his affection for the production, saying, "The script is incredibly good, and there were many moments that choked me up. You really shouldn’t cry during a musical—if your nose runs, the next song is doomed," drawing laughter.
Park Kyu-won, Yoon Shi-yoon, Sandeul, and Yoo Seon-ho, who share the role of Mu-yeong, will each reinterpret Kim Kwang-seok’s classics in their own colors. Park confessed, "I thought a lot about how to make Kim Kwang-seok sunbaenim’s songs my own." Sandeul added, "These songs are loved across generations, so I’m approaching the work with a sense of friendly familiarity."
New additions Kim Jung-hyun, Yoon Shi-yoon, and Yoo Seon-ho shared their excitement about taking on their first-ever musical through The Days.
Kim Jung-hyun said, "I’ve always longed to be on a musical stage. I originally auditioned for Mu-yeong, but at the director’s suggestion, I took on Jeong-hak. Since these numbers are ones I’ve loved for a long time, I’ll give it everything I’ve got."
Yoon Shi-yoon shared, "It’s a dream I’ve always carried as an actor. If you ask why now, the answer is simply The Days," revealing his excitement. Addressing the pressure of a first attempt, he added, "I keep asking myself how to shoulder the risks. Ultimately, it’s a battle to fully internalize the essence of the script, so I’m analyzing it fiercely and learning as much as I can from my seniors’ strengths."
Yoo Seon-ho said, "I’ve loved singing since I was young and always thought about doing musicals. My father said he wanted to see his son sing proudly on stage, so I’m determined to give him a performance he’ll be proud of." He continued, "I’m communicating constantly with the seniors and the director while taking private lessons. Late at night, I even practice singing in my parked car—doing everything I can to make up for what I lack," showcasing his drive.
Signaling deeper emotions and a refreshed cast, The Days runs from June 9 to August 23 at the D-Cube Link Art Center in Sindorim, Seoul.