SEOUL, South Korea – The Arko Ggumbat Theater, a dedicated performance venue for children and teenagers, has officially reopened its doors following extensive renovations supported by public donations. The theater, which continues the storied legacy of the iconic Daehangno small theater, Hakjeon, held a commemorative reopening ceremony on July 4 at its location in Seoul's university district.
The Korean Culture and Arts Council (Arts Council Korea), which began operating the former Hakjeon building as the Arko Ggumbat Theater in July of last year, initiated a fundraising campaign called "Ggumbat Funding" in September to upgrade its aging facilities, including seating, stage, and dressing rooms. The campaign successfully raised approximately 258 million won through over 7,000 donations, enabling the comprehensive renovation.
Hakjeon, established in 1991 by the revered singer-songwriter and playwright Kim Min-ki, served as a crucial stepping stone for countless artists over its 33-year history. It was renowned for its diverse programming, from live concerts to experimental plays and musicals. Notable figures in Korean arts, including musicians Kim Kwang-seok and Yoon Do-hyun, and actors Seol Kyung-goo, Hwang Jung-min, Cho Seung-woo, Jang Hyun-sung, and Kim Yoon-seok, honed their craft on its stages. Hakjeon was particularly acclaimed for pioneering live music culture in Korea and for iconic productions such as the musical "Subway Line 1," which premiered in 1994 and became a landmark in Korean musical theater. Kim Min-ki, who passed away recently, left an indelible mark on the Korean cultural landscape through Hakjeon's dedication to fostering new talent and presenting meaningful works.
Arts Council Korea Chairman Jung Byung-guk expressed his gratitude at the reopening event, stating, "Thanks to the generous support of many individuals, we are able to further honor the profound significance of Hakjeon, which was nurtured by the late Kim Min-ki."
The newly renovated Arko Ggumbat Theater will kick off its programming with the commemorative performance "The Trial of Deer-Nosed Kkottakko," followed by a diverse array of plays and specially curated programs designed to inspire and entertain young audiences. The reopening marks a new chapter for the historic venue, ensuring its continued contribution to the cultural enrichment of children and teenagers in Korea, built upon a foundation of community support and a rich artistic heritage.
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