Korea has done it again. The small Korean musical “Maybe Happy Ending” has won Best Musical at the 78th Tony Awards. Just as BTS became, in 2020, the first Asian act to top the modern Billboard Hot 100 (after 1970)—“Sukiyaki” by Japanese crooner Kyu Sakamoto had reached No. 1 in 1963—“Parasite” became the first foreign-language film to win the Oscar in 2019, and Han Kang became the first Asian woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2024, this news fills me with joy.
I saw “Maybe Happy Ending” nearly ten years ago when it first premiered in the cozy confines of a modest theatre in Daehakro, the Korea’s answer to Broadway, though infinitely smaller. A friend, who had seen the very first show, had raved about it to me.
Like the unassuming space of the theatre itself, the musical featured no elaborate sets or dazzling lights. But I recall that it was precisely this simplicity that pulled me into the story. I was able to clearly watch each glance, every subtle gesture from the actors, which made the narrative shimmer with feelings.
I don’t remember every detail, but I do recall the musical gently exploring the essence of love, parting, longing, and growth, all through the lens of machines. The main characters, Oliver and Claire, were not human but “helperbots.” But amid the passing of time, the limitations of technology, and inevitable farewells, their emotions felt achingly human. The warmth and tenderness they shared, brought to life so beautifully by the performers, lingered with me long after the curtain fell. The songs were sweet and affecting, and each lyric resonated deeply.
But I had completely forgotten about this gem until news broke of its possible Broadway premiere a few years ago. Now, having won the most prestigious prize in musical theater, perhaps more audiences will have the chance to see it in cities around the United States and world.
I just visited the Interpark ticket website, curious if it was still running in Daehakro. While it’s not on at the moment, I saw that the show will return for a three-month run this October in a much larger theater. I can’t wait to experience it again this fall.
Have a wonderful start to another week, everyone!