Lee Young-ae Returns to Theater After 32 Years with ‘Hedda Gabler’

Korean film and TV icon Lee Young-ae is making waves in 2025 with a bold return to live theater—her first in 32 years—as she takes center stage in an adaptation of Henrik Ibsen‘s classic psychological drama, Hedda Gabler.

Known globally for her legendary role in Joint Security Area, which was recently highlighted by CJ ENM Co., Ltd during its 30th anniversary celebration, Lee is now capturing hearts through stage, screen, and drama. Her theatrical comeback is unfolding at the LG Arts Center Magok, Seoul, where she offers a deeply introspective portrayal of Hedda, a woman yearning for freedom in a rigid society.

At a press event on May 13, Lee spoke candidly about her busy-year plans and creative decision-making: “With the rise of Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, content is often delayed for over a year after production. This made me want to act while the passion and energy are still fresh.”

Lee admitted to experiencing intense self-doubt prior to accepting the role. “I spent a month thinking it over. I even stood on an empty stage alone to feel the weight of it.” Yet her first performance left her with profound gratitude. “The audience traveled all the way to Magok. I told myself not to forget my lines, not to burden my fellow actors,” she said, reflecting deeply on the night.

Lee explores the role with inventive interpretation. To her, the stage prop of a balloon symbolizes Hedda: “It’s like a balloon that can’t fly, despite its desire. Beautiful, festive, yet bound—it truly captures Hedda’s emotional confinement.”

Rather than defining Hedda through the lens of failed marriage or gender norms, Lee encourages a modern lens: “Think about Hedda wider—not just as a woman in marriage, but as someone battling toxic environments at work or in society today.”

Though naturally accustomed to film sets, the raw precision required on stage proved to be a challenge. “There are no second takes in theater. Memorizing the vast script terrified me. But I’ve grown to love the live experience—it’s deep, emotional, and unforgettable.”

To ease the screen-to-stage transition, a unique camera-aided feature highlights close-ups of Lee’s performance on stage, a rarity in traditional theater. “When I first heard the idea, I thought—it’s brilliant. This could play into my strengths as a film actor,” she said.

Lee concludes by expressing newfound confidence and artistic fulfillment. “This project made me realize how easy acting has been for me in the past—it was time to be challenged. I’ve fallen in love with the stage, and I’m only getting started.”

‘Hedda Gabler’ runs until June 8 at the LG Arts Center Magok, Seoul, featuring a powerful ensemble alongside Lee, including Kim Jung-ho, Ji Hyun-jun, Lee Seung-joo, Baek Ji-won, Lee Jung-mi, and Jo Uh-jin.