BUSAN, South Korea—Shen Yun’s New Era Company launched its first performance in South Korea on Feb. 14, at the Dream Theater in Busan. Audience members said they were deeply moved by the artists’ superb technique and the rich spiritual culture conveyed on stage.
Choi Yoo-sik, a professor of physical therapy in South Korea, attended the performance with his mother. When the curtain rose on the opening scene—depicting divine beings descending to earth—he said the grandeur immediately resonated with him. “What they want to express goes beyond simply presenting art,” he said. “There is a deeper message they wish to convey. From that perspective, the opening was powerful and truly unforgettable.”
In today’s fast-paced world, he acknowledged, some may assume traditional dance is outdated. “But if they truly come to see Shen Yun,” he said, “those burdened by stress and the pressures of modern life may find themselves considering an important question: How should we live? The performance not only presents ancient stories but also touches on contemporary themes, guiding the audience toward deeper reflection.”
He added that the vocal performances offered further insight. “When the soprano sang, the lyrics carried subtle messages that invite thoughtful reflection. This is a performance suitable for all ages—one I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone.”
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“Truly remarkable—extraordinary in every sense,” said Doo Ryong-bok after attending the evening’s performance. Having seen Shen Yun several times before, he added, “In short, it was awe-inspiring. I was immersed in that sense of wonder from beginning to end.”
Mr. Doo is chairman of Saratoga Co., Ltd. and co-chair of the Korean Choral Organization Committee.
For thousands of years, the spiritual traditions of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism have not only upheld moral values but also profoundly enriched Chinese culture.
Citing a passage from Myeongxin Baojian, which records Confucian teachings, he reflected: “Confucius said, ‘Heaven rewards the good with blessings and the evil with misfortune.’ Those who do good are surely protected by Heaven; those who commit wrongdoing will face consequences. This principle is embedded within the story.”Veteran Dancer: A Sacred and Spectacular Performance
Choi Myung-sook, a Korean dancer who specializes in traditional Korean dance, described the show as “dynamic, sacred, and spectacular.”
She also paid close attention to the performers’ expressive details. “Their facial expressions, stage presence, and acting were excellent,” she said. “There was sorrow; there was joy. Each piece was interpreted in a refreshing and distinctive way.”
Shen Yun’s high-tech digital backdrop particularly impressed her. “It’s very innovative,” she said. “It feels as if the performers leap directly out of the screen. In that moment, you feel drawn right into the scene.”
Ms. Choi greatly appreciated Shen Yun’s efforts to revive traditions. “Traditional values are essential for modern people,” she said. “Only with tradition as a foundation can we connect to the present. Without tradition, how can we move forward?”
