Spirited Away Stage Play in Seoul: Mone Kamishiraishi and Rina Kawaei Cast as Chihiro, Korean Visual Revealed

The stage adaptation of Spirited Away will be performed in Seoul at the Seoul Arts Center Opera House from January 7 to March 22, 2026. Mone Kamishiraishi and Rina Kawaei have been confirmed to share the role of Chihiro. A Korean version of the main visual was also released.

Quick Summary:

・The Spirited Away stage play will run in Seoul from January 7 to March 22, 2026.
・Mone Kamishiraishi and Rina Kawaei will alternate as Chihiro.
・A Korean main visual has been revealed for the production.
・The Seoul Arts Center Opera House will host, with 2,283 seats available.

Background and Global Success

The play is based on Hayao Miyazaki’s 2001 animated film, which follows 10-year-old Chihiro’s growth through challenges in a world of spirits. It premiered at the Imperial Theatre in Tokyo in March 2022 as part of Toho’s 90th anniversary projects, directed and adapted by John Caird of the Royal Shakespeare Company.

The production earned critical acclaim, winning the Grand Prize for Theatre at the 47th Kikuta Kazuo Theatre Awards. Following its Tokyo debut, it toured domestically and ran for 135 performances at London Coliseum, attracting over 300,000 spectators. In 2024, it also staged a sold-out run at Shanghai Culture Square.

Seoul Performance Details

The Seoul Arts Center Opera House, located in the Seocho District of Seoul, will host the production. The Opera Theatre seats 2,283 and is known for large-scale opera, ballet, and classical performances. This staging marks the largest Japanese-language theatrical presentation in Korea to date.

Toho’s executive Atsuro Ikeda commented that the production has refined its quality since the 2022 premiere and expressed confidence in bringing the world of Spirited Away to Korean audiences through collaboration with CJ ENM.

Cast Comments

Mone Kamishiraishi said she was delighted to perform in a city known for vibrant theatre, adding she intends to stay healthy through Korea’s fermented foods during the cold season.

Rina Kawaei noted Studio Ghibli’s strong popularity in Korea, sharing that friends told her tickets would be highly sought after. She looked forward to the experience, saying it would bring a distinct Korean version of Spirited Away.

Both actresses encouraged Japanese audiences to visit Seoul, mentioning the city’s food and atmosphere.

Source : ORICON NEWS