Lee Ho Won on His Successful Theater Return: "I am always excited and happy"

Lee Ho Won, also known by his screen name Hoya, has successfully completed the run of the musical "Swag Age: Shout Out, Joseon!"

The musical performance "Swag Age: Shout Out, Joseon!" was staged at the CJ Towol Theater of the Seoul Arts Center from January 5, with its closing night being on February 28. The story follows a fictionalized version of the Joseon era, where the traditional form of poetry known as "Sijo" takes center stage. In "Swag Age: Shout Out, Joseon!" Lee Ho Won takes on the role of Dan, the lead male role who is a free-spirited poet who dreams of changing the world and fixing its injustices.

He created an outstanding portrayal by adding his own flair to create a complex character leading "Swag Age: Shout Out, Joseon!" Expressing confidence in his own skills as a poet, yet grounding the character with a display of worry for ever changing the oppressive society he is in. As the series progresses, Dan shows development by becoming a nuanced and more empathetic character.

Particularly, his performance was lauded in clearly showing anger and sadness after the twist in the story was revealed. Lee Ho Won explains that he enjoyed his performance, marking his first appearance after completing his mandatory military service that began on February 7, 2019. He was discharged last December 6, 2020.

During an opportunity to talk with the audience, Lee Ho Won said: "It was an honor to be able to share my favorite work, 'Swag Age: Shout Out out, Joseon!'." He also shared his insights and experiences while preparing for the role.

"The short preparation period was painfully unstable and difficult, but the moment I stood on stage, I was always excited and happy enough to forget those times quickly," Ho-won added.

Recognizing everyone who made the "Swag Age: Shout Out, Joseon!" its successful run, Lee Ho Won shared: "I sincerely respect and thank the staff and actors who joined us in Joseon, and the audience who visited the concert hall during difficult times."

Fans and industry observers are all excited to see Lee Ho Won's next project, after seeing his dedication and finesse in delivering as Dan, the free-spirited poet from "Swag Age: Shout Out, Joseon!"