A beloved production is making a high-profile comeback — with a bold new twist.
On the 2nd, producer PAGE1 unveiled the 2026 season cast for the musical Seopyeonje. Based on Yi Chong-jun's novel 'Seopyeonje', the work explores the meaning of art through the life of a family of pansori singers. After its last season in 2022, persistent audience demand led to a new rights agreement, bringing the show back to the stage after four years.
This season, Songhwa will be played by Lee Jaram, Cha Ji-yeon, Lee Bom-sori, and STAYC member Sieun. Despite the tragedy of losing her sight, Songhwa reaches the pinnacle of sound — a character who lives and breathes for song alone. Originating cast members Lee Jaram and Cha Ji-yeon are set to command the stage again with their deeply layered emotions, while newcomers Lee Bom-sori and Sieun are expected to deliver fresh takes grounded in their own acting careers. In particular, Sieun is drawing attention for taking on her first-ever musical since debut, signaling another bold transformation.
The biggest shake-up for 2026 is the newly added Elder Songhwa role. Pansori singer Jung Eun-hye will take on the part, channeling a career that began at age seven to convincingly embody Songhwa's later years. She will also appear in a paired staging with the younger Songhwa portrayed by Sieun — a new approach that is already turning heads.
For Songhwa's stepbrother Dongho, the production has cast musical actors Kim Kyung-soo and Yoo Hyun-seok, along with pansori singer Kim Junsu. As for Yubong, Seo Beom-seok, Park Ho-san, and Kim Tae-han will each showcase their distinct interpretations.
Following the casting reveal, online communities and social media lit up — with fans celebrating Sieun's musical debut while debates flared over the Elder Songhwa concept and the overall casting lineup.
Meanwhile, Seopyeonje will run from April 30 to July 19 at the Kwanglim Arts Center BBCH Hall in Gangnam, Seoul.