Actor Ong Seong-wu added a meaningful line to his filmography.
Ong Seong-wu successfully concluded the Seoul run of the play "Shakespeare in Love" on the 14th, after a three-month journey, expanding his scope as an actor.
Shakespeare in Love is a work that depicts the process in which a young writer named Shakespeare, mired in a creative slump, meets a noblewoman named Viola, regains artistic inspiration and creates the classic masterpiece "Romeo and Juliet."
Ong Seong-wu played "Shakespeare," who falls in love with Viola, leading the play while expressing a wide range of emotions—from comedy to heartrending romance and tearful farewells—with steady pacing and dense emotional depth, earning praise from audiences.
Although it was his first challenge in theater, Ong Seong-wu created a "Shakespeare" that showcased his unique charm through outstanding interpretation and acting, earning the nickname "Shakespeong" and leaving a strong impression.
Audience members also reacted enthusiastically, saying, "He is Shakespeare himself who stepped out of the film," "The beautiful and mysterious Shakespeare Ong Seong-wu," "Shakespeong who filled the summer," and "Even though it was his first play, his outstanding acting and visuals made it impossible to look away."
After finishing the final performance in Seoul, Ong Seong-wu shared his thoughts through his agency Fantagio, saying, "Shakespeare in Love is my first play and a work like a precious colleague that accompanied a new beginning. I am deeply grateful for the time in which I was able to feel and learn many things."
He added, "The existence of the 'audience' came to me with great meaning, and I personally felt that a work containing everyone's efforts is only completed when it meets and communicates with the audience. It seems this will be an unforgettable moment in my future acting life," and he offered sincere thanks to everyone who has shown interest in his work while asking for much support and love for his future endeavors, expressing anticipation for upcoming activities.
Recently, Ong Seong-wu drew attention for his warm support and encouragement as a planet master on Mnet's audition program Boys Planet 2, empathizing with participants' challenges. Demonstrating his versatility as an all-around artist in singing, dancing, acting and variety shows, Ong Seong-wu succeeded in proving his presence on the theater stage through this work, drawing attention to the path he will continue to write as an actor.
Meanwhile, the play "Shakespeare in Love," featuring Ong Seong-wu, is scheduled to meet Busan audiences at the Busan Cultural Center Grand Theater on Oct. 18 and 19.
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