Frida: The Musical’s Press Call—Kim Sohyang and Aiki Ignite the Stage with Hummingbird Energy

A Dazzling Press Call: Frida’s World Comes Alive

Did you know? On June 26, 2025, the grand hall of NOL Uniplex in Seoul was buzzing with excitement as the press call for the musical 'Frida' unfolded. The event brought together a powerhouse cast—Kim Sohyang, Kim Hieora, Kim Jiwoo, Jang Euna, Jeon Soomi, Aiki, Yoo Yeonjung, Heo Yoonsul, Park Siin, Lee Areumsol, Lee Jiyeon, and Park Sunyoung—all ready to channel the legendary Frida Kahlo’s passion and pain. This press call wasn’t just a media event; it was a showcase of raw energy, with the cast performing signature numbers like 'Hummingbird' and 'La Vida,' leaving the audience in awe.
Fans and reporters alike were treated to a taste of the musical’s bold staging, vibrant choreography, and emotional storytelling. The palpable chemistry between Kim Sohyang’s Frida and Aiki’s Refleja (her first musical role!) was a highlight, setting the tone for a season that promises both artistic depth and showbiz spectacle.

Frida: A Life of Pain, Art, and Resilience

Frida Kahlo’s life was a whirlwind of suffering and creativity. Stricken by polio as a child and later surviving a devastating car accident, she endured lifelong pain. Yet, she transformed her agony into art, becoming a global icon of resilience and self-expression. The musical 'Frida' captures this journey in a unique frame-story format, focusing on her final days and the memories that shaped her. The show runs until September 7 at NOL Uniplex, drawing both longtime fans and newcomers eager to witness her story retold through Korean musical artistry.
What sets this production apart is its refusal to dwell solely on tragedy. Instead, it bursts with color, music, and movement, mirroring Frida’s own determination to find joy amidst adversity. The cast’s all-female lineup delivers a fresh perspective, with each actress embodying not just Frida but the very concepts—memory, fate, reflection—that defined her inner world.

Kim Sohyang: The Master of Frida’s Pain and Power

Kim Sohyang, now synonymous with the role of Frida, commands the stage with an intensity that’s both fierce and vulnerable. She’s played the part across multiple seasons, earning the nickname 'Frida Artisan' among fans. Her performance is a masterclass in emotional storytelling—her voice soars, her expressions cut deep, and her physicality makes the audience feel every ounce of Frida’s struggle and triumph.
In interviews, Kim has shared how portraying Frida has been both physically and emotionally demanding, yet deeply rewarding. She describes finishing each show feeling utterly drained, but also inspired by Frida’s ability to create beauty from pain. Her dedication has resonated with audiences, many of whom write to her about finding hope and courage through the musical.

Aiki’s Musical Debut: Dance, Energy, and Unexpected Vocals

Aiki, already a sensation in the dance world, made her much-anticipated musical debut as Refleja—a character who guides Frida through her memories and also embodies her husband Diego Rivera. Fans were curious: Could Aiki’s charisma translate to the musical stage? The answer, resoundingly, is yes. Her dance sequences electrify the audience, and her singing (polished through extra lessons with Kim Sohyang) adds a new dimension to her artistry.
Community reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. On platforms like Theqoo and Naver, fans praised Aiki’s stage presence, noting how her energy elevated the entire production. Some even remarked that it felt like Aiki was born for this role, seamlessly blending her dance expertise with the emotional demands of musical theater.

Fandom Culture: The Heartbeat of Korean Musicals

Did you know that Korean musicals now boast fandoms as passionate as those of K-pop? 'Frida' is no exception. Fans organize viewing parties, wear themed outfits, and flood social media with reviews and fan art. At the press call, the audience was a sea of red—the show’s signature color—with fans clutching exclusive merchandise and snapping photos at dedicated photo zones.
This vibrant fandom culture is a defining feature of the Korean musical scene. Platforms like Weverse and BeStage now host official pages for musicals, allowing fans to interact directly with cast members and share behind-the-scenes moments. The rise of idol-turned-musical-actors like Aiki has only fueled this trend, attracting younger audiences and making musicals a hot ticket among 20- and 30-somethings.

Community Buzz: Reactions from Korean Netizens

Let’s dive into what Korean communities are saying! On DC Inside and Instiz, fans raved about the cast’s chemistry and the emotional impact of the show. Comments like 'Kim Sohyang’s Frida gave me chills—her voice carries so much pain and hope' and 'Aiki’s dance solo was unforgettable, I never expected to cry during a tap number!' captured the mood. Others on Nate Pann highlighted the show’s empowering message for women, with one user writing, 'Seeing an all-female cast tell Frida’s story made me feel proud and uplifted.'
Of course, there were some critical voices, too. A few commenters wished for more nuanced storytelling or felt the pacing lagged in the first act. But overall, the consensus is clear: 'Frida' is a must-see, both for its artistry and its celebration of resilience.

Cultural Insights: Why Frida Resonates in Korea

Why has Frida Kahlo’s story struck such a chord in Korea? Part of the answer lies in her status as a feminist icon and survivor. Korean audiences, especially young women, see in Frida a mirror of their own struggles for self-expression and independence. The musical’s focus on female perspectives and its refusal to sugarcoat pain make it especially relevant in today’s cultural climate.
Moreover, the show’s fusion of Western subject matter with Korean theatrical sensibilities creates a unique cultural bridge. The use of rock music, dynamic choreography, and intimate staging appeals to fans of both traditional musicals and modern pop culture. For international fans, understanding this context is key to appreciating why 'Frida' has become a phenomenon in Korea’s ever-evolving musical landscape.

Behind the Scenes: Cast Bonding and Artistic Challenges

Did you know the cast of 'Frida' often refers to themselves as a family? Behind the scenes, they support each other through grueling rehearsals and emotionally charged performances. Kim Sohyang has spoken about the camaraderie among the actresses, noting that their offstage friendship translates into onstage chemistry.
The creative team, led by EMK Musical Company, faced unique challenges in adapting Frida’s complex life for the stage. Balancing historical accuracy with artistic interpretation required deep research and collaboration. The result is a show that feels both authentic and innovative, honoring Frida’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of Korean musical theater.

How to Experience 'Frida'—Tips for International Fans

If you’re in Korea before September 7, don’t miss your chance to see 'Frida' at NOL Uniplex! Tickets can be hard to snag, so join local fan communities or check official platforms for last-minute releases. Even if you can’t attend in person, follow the musical’s official social media for behind-the-scenes clips, cast interviews, and fan content.
For those new to Korean musicals, 'Frida' offers a perfect introduction: it’s visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and rooted in both global and local culture. Whether you’re a Frida Kahlo devotee or just curious about the latest trends in Korean entertainment, this show is sure to leave a lasting impression.