The Fate of Seven Trapped in a Strange Room... National Theater Company’s Youth Play "Room 19" Opens Next Month

Performances at The Zoom Art Center from December 17 to 28

The National Theater Company of Korea’s Children and Youth Theater Research Institute announced on November 27 that its final production of the year, "Room 19," will be performed at The Zoom Art Center in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, from December 17 to 28.

The play opens as seven characters awaken in a strange room without even a window. They know nothing about one another, nor do they understand why they have been brought together in this place. Although they attempt to escape by various means, the only door is firmly locked and will not open. The unpredictable situations that unfold within the confined space, the sense of suspicion toward others, and the tense atmosphere create a palpable sense of suspense. As competition to open the door, unexpected cooperation, and unforeseen choices unfold, hidden truths and twists are gradually revealed.

While the dramatic situations are urgent, the production maintains a light tone. Amid the tension of constant unexpected incidents and the intertwining circumstances of each character, witty and humorous dialogue keeps the mood lively.

National Theater Company of Korea Youth Play 'Room 19'
[Photo by National Theater Company of Korea]

"Room 19" was first created in 2014 through the Children and Youth Theater Research Institute’s youth play creation program, "Artist Youth Creation Belt." Kim Soohee, who directed the original showcase, and playwright Lee Sungkwon have further enhanced the work by adding new perspectives relevant to the present day. The two creators explained that they have restructured the play to focus on the "threshold of growth," a universal concern for all modern people, regardless of era. The "closed door," a central motif of the play, serves not only as a physical boundary but also as a reminder of the frameworks and boundaries imposed by society and personal growth. Audience members are invited to recognize the inner doors they have encountered in their own lives and to gain a new perspective on both their current position and the world beyond the closed door.

Playwright Lee Sungkwon said, "I hope this will be a work that remains memorable even as time passes," adding, "I would be glad if audience members can find their own doors through this performance."

Director Kim Soohee brings the production to life with her signature fast pacing and intense focus. She has received the 60th Baeksang Arts Award for Theater and the 19th Cha Beomseok Playwriting Award, among others.

Director Kim Soohee stated, "This work is not just for teenagers," and continued, "There are things that never change, even as time passes. I hope everyone will reflect on their own boundaries and systems and find the strength to overcome them."

Actors Na Yunhee, Ahn Byungchan, Lee Seodo, Lee Juhyung, Jang Seokhwan, Jang Yohun, and Jo Sujae will appear in the production.

Tickets for "Room 19" can be reserved through the National Theater Company of Korea website and NOL Ticket. The 4 p.m. performance on December 19 will be a "Youth Day" event, offering a 30% discount. Teenagers and university students are eligible for a 50% discount at all times, and a special 50% discount is available for students who took the 2026 College Scholastic Ability Test. After the performance on December 21, there will be a "Conversation with the Artists" session featuring playwright Lee Sungkwon, director Kim Soohee, and other members of the creative team.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.