Musical Actor Lee Hae-joon Returns to Stage After 9 Months with 'Rent': 'Confronting My True Self'

Musical actor Lee Hae-joon is set to grace the stage once again after a nine-month hiatus.

In a recent interview with Sports Seoul, he revealed that he never strayed from his life as an actor during this period. After five years of non-stop work, he will now meet audiences as 'Roger' in the musical 'Rent'.

Lee explained that his decision to join the production was not only due to its connection with 'tick, tick...BOOM!' but also because of the profound appeal of the character 'Roger' himself. Portraying 'Roger,' an AIDS-positive patient trapped by the fear of his impending death, Lee initially felt isolated during rehearsals. However, he found significant comfort through candid communication with his fellow cast members.

"Before each rehearsal, we shared our lives, pains, and worries. As our stories accumulated, our gazes towards each other changed, and those moments unfolded authentically on stage," he shared.

The reunion with his university alumni, Jeong Da-hee and Kim Soo-yeon, provided him with even greater strength. "Since we've known each other for so long, it feels like true friends. It's a lonely path where we tell each other 'You've worked hard. You endured well,' and when they shine, we shine too, giving me strength," he said.

Now in his 12th year as a professional actor, Lee Hae-joon expressed his aspiration to take on roles that genuinely connect with characters and deliver warm messages. "The stage is my top priority because it's where I find myself," he stated, signaling his intent to continue challenging himself in various fields, including theater and film.

The musical 'Rent' will be performed until February 22nd of next year at the COEX Artium in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

Fans are enthusiastically welcoming Lee Hae-joon's return. Comments include, "He's finally back! The 9-month wait was worth it," "Really looking forward to your portrayal of Roger," and "Can't wait to see you on stage again!"