▲ This poster for the play "The Tempest" is provided by the National Theater Company of Korea (NTCK). (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, June 5 (Yonhap) -- The National Theater Company of Korea (NTCK) on Friday issued an official apology over a controversy surrounding the replacement of actors ahead of overseas and regional performances of the play "The Tempest."

 

On May 26, actors Kim Na-jin, Moon Ye-ju, Park Yoon-hee and Yoon Sung-won, who participated in the premiere production of "The Tempest," raised concerns, saying they had received unilateral notices from the NTCK that they would not be able to take part in the China tour and regional performances without any prior consultation or sufficient explanation.

 

The actors said they had completed the production in good faith under the understanding that they would also participate in the China performances and other scheduled tours this year. However, they claimed that actress Ye Soo-jung, who played the lead role of Prospera, was informed by phone on Dec. 29 last year that she would be replaced, followed by notices to the remaining actors on Feb. 4. The actors have since filed a joint petition with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism's Artist Rights Protection Center.

 

In a statement released Thursday, the NTCK said, "We sincerely apologize to the actors who experienced hurt and disappointment over this matter, as well as to audience members who have been concerned."

 

The company explained that after the premiere ended last year, it decided to partially revise the concept and directing approach for the overseas and regional performances scheduled for 2026. It also decided to recast the lead role of Prospera in order to portray the character with a stronger image.

 

"Following the lead casting change, securing at least six weeks of rehearsal time became essential. However, during the tour and rehearsal period for 'The Tempest,' some cast members were found to have scheduling conflicts with other productions and commitments. After a comprehensive review, we decided to make the replacements," the statement said.

 

The NTCK added that it deeply regrets failing to communicate the decision in a sufficient and considerate manner and pledged to cooperate fully and responsibly with the investigation into the joint petition.

 

"The Tempest," based on Shakespeare's final comedy, premiered at Myeongdong Theater from Dec. 4-28 last year.

[ⓒ K-VIBE. 무단전재-재배포 금지]