“This is a great performance that conveys the truth,” said attorney Seok-koo Seo. “Shen Yun will bring the brilliance of traditional Chinese culture back to life, and it will also help the Chinese people break free from the tyranny of the Chinese Communist Party.”

At over 80 years old, Mr. Seo is a seasoned South Korean attorney, the General Affairs Director of the Korean Bar Association, and a former judge.

“The costumes were incredibly diverse, and the dancers’ acrobatic flips, aerial leaps, and performances of ethnic dances were all truly impressive,” he said.

He also praised the tenor’s voice, saying it deeply touched his heart. He resonated with the meaning conveyed in the lyrics, saying, “The phrase ‘Do not fail’ carries a profound meaning, as it reflects the idea that God’s values of kindness must not fail. Hearing the tenor perform this song was truly moving.”

The high-tech backdrop of Shen Yun’s stage, showcasing dynamic scenes like tsunamis and floods, deeply resonated with him. “With today’s advanced imaging technology, the scenes of tsunamis and flooding were especially striking. It made me think about God’s judgment on the Chinese Communist Party. Recently, the floods, typhoons, hailstorms, and droughts in mainland China ... Could these disasters be God’s punishment for the CCP’s persecution of religious freedom, ethnic minorities, and traditional culture?”

The story in the Shen Yun dance drama about practitioners who persist in their faith despite persecution left a strong impression on him. “Because there is no press freedom in China, these truths cannot be spread. But today, through this performance, the real situation was vividly presented, allowing the truth to be widely known. I’m truly grateful for that,” he said.

Mr. Seo believes that traditional Chinese culture will endure despite the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) ongoing repression—from the destruction of cultural heritage during the Cultural Revolution, to the continued imposition of Party ideology, the persecution of people of faith, and attempts to silence truth-revealing performances like Shen Yun.

The CCP has pressured the South Korean government and theaters for years to interfere with Shen Yun performances. “This shows how the CCP suppresses culture globally—just as it harms other countries through the Belt and Road Initiative and unfair trade. South Korea has also been heavily affected,” he said.

He added, “I believe Shen Yun will help revive the brilliance of traditional Chinese culture and, in time, will also help the Chinese people break free from the CCP’s dictatorship and gain true freedom.”

He expressed heartfelt thanks to the Shen Yun artists for their efforts to expose the CCP’s crimes and revive traditional culture. “I’m truly, deeply grateful to all of you,” he said. “Today I saw how the performers, through various pieces, not only introduced aspects of Chinese culture, but also vividly portrayed the brutal acts committed by the CCP—especially by its public security forces.” He added, “I sincerely hope the free world, especially South Korea, can move beyond the era of negative influence brought on by pro-CCP forces.”

“It felt as though a fantasy world had come to life on stage,” he said. “It’s hard to believe that a production of such scale and beauty is even possible. Everything was enchanting. I felt genuinely joyful and deeply moved.”

A Shen Yun performance blends classical Chinese dance, original music, and cutting-edge digital backdrops. Mr. Seo found this the most impactful in “the final scene, where the Buddha descends to Earth. It was absolutely stunning and truly unforgettable.”

Mr. Seo shared how he was moved by the celestial scenes and themes of deities and Buddha featured throughout the performance. “These depictions really touched my soul. I believe that if people lived with such a mindset, wouldn’t society be happier and warmer?” he said.

He spoke highly of the dancers’ performance: “The male dancers were dynamic and powerful, while the female dancers were graceful and elegant, embodying the essence of refined beauty. You could tell they had gone through rigorous training—every movement and line was remarkably polished.”

He said Shen Yun offered more than just artistic beauty—it was a spiritual experience. “It made me reflect on my flaws and think about how I should live. The performance brought me joy and insight.”

“It felt like a dream. I gained new inspiration. It is truly the pinnacle of art,” said Mr. Seo, who is also a distinguished guest artist at the Korea National Photography Exhibition

He mentioned that since first seeing Shen Yun years ago, he has made it a priority to attend nearly every performance in Korea.

“Shen Yun presents a profoundly artistic world,” he said. “It teaches the values of right and wrong, good and evil. In many ways, it has become a guiding compass in my life.”

Mr. Seo said, “It truly brings traditional culture to life, awakening forgotten memories from within.”

The Shen Yun performance, with its spectacular scenes of divine beings, leaves him in awe every time.

“In that moment, I was swept away,” he said. “It was the pinnacle of art, filled with a dreamlike quality. Scenes that are almost impossible to imagine in everyday life came to life through the seamless blend of dance and visuals. It’s not just about the technique; the high level of interaction between the host and the audience creates an unforgettable artistic experience.”

He went on to explain that the scene depicting the descent of deities and Buddha in the performance “goes beyond religious themes; it’s more about exploring the fundamental values of life.”

“Shen Yun conveys universal values of justice, a message that touches the heart and naturally invites understanding and reflection,” he said. “Even in just one performance, it transports us to a place of peace amidst the chaos and harshness of everyday life. It’s more than art; it’s a gift of hope and spiritual nourishment. I look forward to experiencing it again next time.”

Mr. Seo expressed his deep regret that Shen Yun cannot perform in China, calling it “truly heartbreaking.” He pointed out that China’s communist regime is in stark contrast to the values of freedom and democracy.

“In this context, Shen Yun’s worldwide tours, despite many challenges, inspire people through culture rather than force,” he said. “This is the power of art—a nurturing, guiding force that leads people toward peace and awakening.”

Mr. Seo expressed deep admiration for the dedication of Shen Yun’s artists. “Their performance not only showcases exceptional skill but also brings the divine world to life—the highest realm itself. It’s a spiritual expression meant to guide humanity toward peace and righteousness. It is my wholehearted appreciation and deepest praise.”