A Legendary Return: Ji Choon-sung Revisits 'Donyeom' in 'Sammaekyung' After 34 Years at Myeongdong Theater

The Timeless Allure of 'A Little Monk' and Its Modern Rebirth

Did you know that Korean theater is experiencing a revival of its classic masterpieces? This summer, the National Theater Company of Korea is bringing Ham Se-deok’s iconic play 'A Little Monk' (Dongseung, 동승) back to life in a bold new form titled 'Sammaekyung.' The production will run from July 17 to August 3, 2025, at the historic Myeongdong Theater in Seoul. This reinterpretation, led by director Lee Cheol-hee, promises to blend the poetic melancholy of the original with a daring, contemporary twist. For fans of Korean culture and theater, this is a rare opportunity to witness the past and present collide on stage.

Ji Choon-sung’s Emotional Return: Revisiting Donyeom After 34 Years

One of the most talked-about aspects of 'Sammaekyung' is the return of veteran actor Ji Choon-sung to the role of Donyeom, the young monk. Ji first played Donyeom in 1991 at just 25 years old, earning the Best Actor award at the Seoul Theater Festival and the Baeksang Arts Award for his performance. Now, at 59, he returns to the stage, embodying both the character and his own journey as an artist. Community reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with fans on platforms like DC Inside and Naver expressing admiration for Ji’s dedication and emotional depth. Comments highlight the unique resonance of seeing an actor revisit a formative role decades later, with one user noting, 'It feels like watching the passage of time itself unfold on stage.'

Reimagining a Classic: From 'Dongseung' to 'Sammaekyung'

Director Lee Cheol-hee’s vision for 'Sammaekyung' goes beyond a simple revival. The play uses the skeleton of Ham Se-deok’s original 1939 script but adds layers of meta-narrative and existential reflection. The protagonist is now an actor haunted by his past performance, blurring the boundaries between character and performer, reality and memory. The story takes the audience on a surreal journey across the Sando River, the mythical boundary between life and death, as the actor confronts his younger self and the weight of unfinished dreams. Critics on Theku and PGR21 have praised the production’s bold structure, calling it 'a meditation on art, regret, and the relentless march of time.'

Myeongdong Theater: A Cultural Landmark in Seoul

For those unfamiliar with the venue, Myeongdong Theater is one of Seoul’s most storied performance halls. Originally opened in 1934, it has been a cornerstone of Korea’s modern art scene, hosting everything from traditional plays to experimental performances. After extensive renovations, it now boasts state-of-the-art facilities and an intimate 588-seat auditorium, making it a favorite among theatergoers who crave a close connection with the actors. Many local bloggers on Naver and Tistory have shared their excitement about returning to this iconic space, describing it as 'the beating heart of Korean theater.'

Community Buzz: How Korean Audiences Are Reacting

The announcement of 'Sammaekyung' has sparked lively discussions across Korean online communities. On Daum and Instiz, theater fans have expressed both nostalgia and curiosity about how the new interpretation will resonate with modern audiences. Some are eager to see how the existential themes will be updated, while others are simply thrilled to see Ji Choon-sung reprise his legendary role. A notable comment from FM Korea reads, 'This is not just a play, it’s a living piece of Korean theater history.' The summer discount promotion—a 30% ticket reduction for anyone with a paid ticket to any performing arts event in July or August—has also received positive feedback, making the show more accessible to a broader audience.

Cultural Insights: Why 'A Little Monk' Still Matters

For international fans, understanding the cultural significance of 'A Little Monk' is key. Written in 1939, the play reflects the anxieties and hopes of a Korea grappling with colonial occupation and rapid modernization. The story of Donyeom, a child monk longing for his absent mother, resonates with universal themes of loss, longing, and the search for belonging. The new adaptation, 'Sammaekyung,' invites audiences to reflect on how personal and national histories intertwine, making it a powerful entry point for anyone interested in Korean literature, Buddhism, or the performing arts.

Behind the Scenes: The Creative Team and Cast

In addition to Ji Choon-sung, the cast includes respected actors such as Ko Yong-seon, Kwak Seong-eun, Kim Shin-hyo, Seo Yu-deok, Sim Wan-jun, Yoon Seul-gi, and Lee Kang-min. Each brings their own interpretation and energy to the stage, ensuring a dynamic and emotionally rich performance. Director Lee Cheol-hee is known for his innovative approach to classic texts, and early reviews from theater blogs suggest that his direction elevates the material to new heights. The National Theater Company’s commitment to offering English subtitles for all performances further opens the doors for international audiences.

How to Experience 'Sammaekyung': Tickets, Discounts, and More

If you’re planning to visit Seoul this summer, catching 'Sammaekyung' at Myeongdong Theater should be at the top of your list. Tickets are available through the National Theater Company’s website, with special summer discounts for anyone holding a paid ticket to any performing arts event in July or August. This initiative aims to boost the local theater scene and make high-quality productions accessible to more people. Local reviewers have praised the affordability and inclusivity of this policy, noting that it reflects a broader trend of democratizing the arts in Korea.

The Enduring Legacy of Ham Se-deok and Korean Theater

Ham Se-deok, who lived from 1915 to 1950, remains one of Korea’s most influential playwrights. His works are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and deep exploration of human emotion. 'A Little Monk' is considered a cornerstone of modern Korean drama, and its continued reinterpretation speaks to its relevance across generations. As 'Sammaekyung' takes the stage this summer, it not only honors Ham’s legacy but also invites new conversations about memory, identity, and the power of performance.

Final Thoughts: Why You Shouldn’t Miss 'Sammaekyung'

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Korean theater or a newcomer eager to explore its rich traditions, 'Sammaekyung' offers an unforgettable experience. The combination of a legendary actor’s return, a timeless story reimagined, and the vibrant atmosphere of Myeongdong Theater makes this one of the cultural highlights of 2025. As one Naver blogger put it, 'Watching Sammaekyung is like stepping into a living memory—one that belongs to all of us.'