“Thanks to you, I enthusiastically perform theater in my own way”

This heartfelt tribute to the late theater director Lee Sang-woo, penned by a devoted former student, offers a profound glimpse into the legacy of a man who shaped not only the landscape of Korean theater but also the lives of countless aspiring artists. Lee Sang-woo, a visionary who co-founded the influential theater companies Yeonwoo Mudae and Chaimu, and later nurtured talent as a professor at the Korea National University of Arts, is remembered not just for his directorial prowess but for his deep humanism. The author emphasizes that Lee was more than a director; he was a mentor who guided his students to live meaningful lives, encouraging them to discover and express their unique artistic identities. This personal perspective underscores the profound personal impact Lee had, transcending the professional realm.

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You are a very capable person. So, do what only you can do.

The article delves into Lee Sang-woo's core philosophy, encapsulated in his oft-repeated advice: "Don't just work hard, do it well." This seemingly simple directive carried immense weight, pushing his students beyond mere effort towards achieving excellence and finding their individual artistic paths. The author recounts how Lee would often share meals and conversations about theater with his students, passionately advocating for the creation of original Korean plays amidst a scene dominated by translated works. His influence fostered a generation of artists committed to developing a distinctly Korean theatrical voice, a movement that continues to resonate today. The founding of 'Chaimu,' which stands for 'dimension-shifting stage,' reflects Lee's ambition to transport audiences to new perspectives and understandings of the world through theater.

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Don't just work hard, do it well!

From the perspective of Korean theater practitioners and critics, Lee Sang-woo is a towering figure. His dedication to original Korean drama and his unique directorial style, often referred to as 'Chaimu-style theater,' have left an indelible mark. While Western media might focus on the technical aspects of his productions or his academic achievements, the Korean narrative emphasizes his role as a cultural catalyst and a deeply influential mentor. The author's personal anecdotes, such as Lee's consistent inquiries about whether his students had eaten and his willingness to share food and wisdom, highlight a deeply ingrained Korean cultural value of care and mentorship. The article also touches upon Lee's later years, where he continued his creative work near the sea in Goseong, finding new inspiration in nature, further illustrating his lifelong passion for artistic exploration. His passing is mourned not just as the loss of a great artist, but as the departure of a guiding light whose influence will continue to shape Korean theater for years to come.

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Why do you do theater?