Under the bright lights of Seoul's NOL venue, a vibrant and deeply moving musical has been captivating audiences since its debut earlier this summer. 'Freedia,' a show that runs until September 7, 2025, is not your average musical. Instead, it's a powerful tribute to the life, struggles, and enduring legacy of Go Dong, the renowned Korean singer and activist whose journey from 1907 to 1954 left an indelible mark on the country’s cultural and social fabric.
According to a review published on August 22, 2025, by Bravo My Life, 'Freedia' is more than just a biographical retelling. The production transforms Go Dong’s pain and activism into a work of art that is as visually stunning as it is emotionally resonant. With only four main actresses—Kim So-hyung, Kim Ji-woo, Kim Hee-ah, and Jung Yoo-ji—taking on all roles, the stage is consistently alive with energy, passion, and a sense of camaraderie that is palpable even from the back row. Their performances have been widely praised for their depth and nuance, each bringing a unique interpretation to Go Dong’s complex persona.
But what exactly makes 'Freedia' stand out in the crowded landscape of Korean musical theater? For starters, its format is strikingly experimental. The musical is structured as a show-within-a-show: Go Dong appears on a fictional talk show called 'The Last Night Show,' reflecting on her life’s highs and lows during what is depicted as her final night. This narrative device allows the audience to journey through the most pivotal and painful moments of her life, from her early struggles with illness to her eventual role as a symbol of resistance and hope.
The staging is minimalist but impactful, relying on the powerful presence of its cast and the evocative use of lighting, costumes, and choreography to bring Go Dong’s world to life. The musical runs for 110 minutes without intermission, keeping the audience engaged and emotionally invested throughout. Ticket prices, which range from 50,000 KRW to 80,000 KRW depending on the section, reflect the production’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that as many people as possible can experience this remarkable story.
One of the most striking aspects of 'Freedia' is its unflinching portrayal of Go Dong’s suffering and resilience. As Bravo My Life details, Go Dong endured a series of personal tragedies, including debilitating illness at a young age and a life-altering accident at 18. These hardships, however, did not break her spirit. Instead, they became the foundation of her activism and artistry. The musical does not shy away from these dark chapters; instead, it transforms them into moments of catharsis and collective reflection. The climax of the show, when red roses rain down on the stage and Go Dong dances alone, is described as a breathtaking testament to the triumph of life over adversity.
Each actress brings her own color to the role. Kim So-hyung, who has been with the production since its premiere, is lauded for her deep understanding of Go Dong’s emotional landscape. Kim Hee-ah, who joined last season, and newcomers Kim Ji-woo and Jung Yoo-ji, each offer fresh perspectives, ensuring that Go Dong’s legacy is portrayed as multifaceted and alive. The supporting cast, including the dancer Aiki, who plays the talk show host and Go Dong’s confidant, adds further layers to the narrative, blending humor, pathos, and social commentary in equal measure.
Beyond the stage, 'Freedia' serves as a meditation on the power of art to heal and inspire. The musical’s message is clear: even in the face of overwhelming pain, life remains a festival to be celebrated. This sentiment is encapsulated in the show’s finale, when Go Dong exclaims, "Viva La Vida!"—a nod to her belief that life, no matter how fraught with suffering, is worth living to the fullest. The review notes, "Even if life is only pain, it was still a celebration," a line that has resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.
The production’s creative team has also taken bold risks with the show’s structure and casting. By eschewing a traditional ensemble and relying on just four actresses to play all the roles, 'Freedia' places a premium on versatility and emotional range. This decision, while unconventional, has paid off handsomely, with each performance feeling intimate and immediate. The interplay between the actresses, especially during the show’s more intense moments, is electric—a testament to the rigorous direction and the cast’s commitment to their craft.
Of course, the musical’s success is not just a result of its artistic merits. The story of Go Dong is one that many Koreans hold close to their hearts. As a singer and activist, she fought tirelessly for justice and equality, often at great personal cost. Her life, marked by both tragedy and triumph, continues to inspire new generations of artists and activists. By bringing her story to the stage, 'Freedia' invites audiences to reflect not only on the past but also on the ongoing struggles for social change in Korea and beyond.
Meanwhile, the broader arts and culture scene in Korea has been abuzz with excitement over 'Freedia.' The show’s innovative approach, coupled with its timely themes, has sparked conversations about the role of theater in addressing social issues and preserving cultural memory. As one theatergoer remarked after a recent performance, "It’s rare to see a musical that feels both so personal and so universal at the same time."
In a year marked by both challenges and triumphs for the Korean performing arts industry, 'Freedia' stands out as a beacon of hope and creativity. Its celebration of Go Dong’s life, rendered with honesty and compassion, offers a much-needed reminder of the transformative power of art. For those lucky enough to catch a performance before the curtain falls on September 7, the experience promises to be unforgettable—a testament to the enduring legacy of one of Korea’s most beloved cultural icons, and to the artists who continue to bring her story to life.
As the final notes fade and the lights dim, the audience is left with a simple but profound message: even in the face of suffering, there is beauty, strength, and reason to celebrate. And that, perhaps, is the greatest legacy of all.
