Get a taste of traditional Korean theatre in this English-friendly reconstruction of a Western-style venue.
Created in 1995 as a tourist-friendly addition to the National Theatre of Korea, the Chongdong Theatre shows different traditional Korean performance art, including dancing, acting and a classical type of singing known as pansori.
One of the Chongdong’s highlights is the Miso show, which has been running since 1997 and is aimed at tourists and locals alike. Considered one of the city’s top tourist attractions, Miso (which translates to “smile”) includes traditional percussion music, fantastic Korean costume and a unique fan dance known as buchaechum. One of the reasons Miso is so popular with tourists is its relative lack of dialogue. Any dialogue it does have is helpfully translated into English as well as other languages.
Miso is a blend of entertainment and education, and a great way for visitors to learn a little more about the country’s history and culture. When the show is over, make sure you stick around to chat to the cast when they step down from the stage to meet the audience and pose for photos.
Chongdong Theatre has a restaurant that serves both Korean and Western food, where you can enjoy a pre-performance dinner. There is also a gift shop on site if you would like a memento or souvenir. During spring and autumn, when Seoul’s weather is at its best, the matinee performances are held outside in the theatre’s courtyard. The shows are free, but it’s a good bet to arrive early to guarantee a seat – spaces fill up fast!
The box office opens an hour before the show starts. The theatre is open every day except Monday, and Miso usually puts on an afternoon (matinee) and evening show. You can get to the Chongdong Theatre using Seoul’s efficient subway system – get off at City Hall, Seodaemun or Gwanghwamun.
