A scene from the musical "Kinky Boots," featuring drag queen Lola / Courtesy of CJ ENM

When "Kinky Boots" first strutted onto Korean stages in 2014, few could have predicted the decade-long love that would follow. With its infectious energy, charismatic yet relatable characters and touching narrative, the musical has not only entertained but deeply resonated with audiences here. Korean resident director Shim Sul-in, who has led the show since its 2016 revival, attributes this lasting appeal to the show's unique connection with Korean audiences.

"It's incredible that ‘Kinky Boots' continues to receive so much love over a decade in Korea. The energy from the audience feels like a concert for a long-awaited star," Shim said in a written interview with The Korea Times.

"Kinky Boots" tells the story of Charlie, a young man who reluctantly inherits a failing shoe factory from his father. In a bid to save the business, he forms an unlikely partnership and friendship with Lola, a drag queen. Together, they set out to produce a line of high-heeled boots for a unique clientele — the drag community.

Shim Sul-in is the Korean resident director of "Kinky Boots," which celebrates its 10th anniversary here. Courtesy of Shim Sul-in

For Shim, the 10th anniversary of "Kinky Boots" in Korea is more than just a milestone. She pointed out that Korean audiences, who have a cultural fondness for song and dance, are drawn to Lola's courage and the authenticity that defines "Kinky Boots."

"'Kinky Boots' breaks down the conventional ways audiences approach musicals. They feel the thrill, express it openly and respond to it. That kind of uninhibited energy feels very natural to Korean audiences — especially with the character of Lola, who embodies honesty and dignity," she said.

"The upbeat music and choreography tap directly into the audience's emotions, keeping their hearts racing and bringing out their enthusiasm. It offers that cathartic release, but through a shared story, making it more powerful than a concert."

Themes of family and connection are woven throughout "Kinky Boots," which Shim believes adds another layer of resonance for Korean audiences.

"The show portrays many forms of family — the bond between father and son, friendships and the loyalty of factory workers who support each other through thick and thin," Shim explained. "In a society where people often feel lost or unsettled, where dedication and commitment can seem rare, 'Kinky Boots' offers a reminder of the warmth and stability that family (whether by blood or choice) can bring, which touches the hearts of our audience."

Kang Hong-seok plays Lola in the musical "Kinky Boots." Courtesy of CJ ENM

Maintaining balance

For this 10th anniversary production, Kim Ho-young, Lee Seok-hoon, Kim Sung-Kyu and Shin Jae-Beom share the role of Charlie, while Park Eun-tae, Choi Jae-rim, Kang Hong-seok and Seo Kyung-su portray Lola.

She describes this season as a "gift set," with the multiple actors alternating in the lead roles, each bringing new energy and perspectives to familiar characters. Unlike the Broadway model, which typically casts one actor per role, the Korean system often involves "double, triple or even quadruple" casting, creating an entirely different experience every night.

"It's rare to see so many stellar actors rotating through the same roles. This setup allows audiences to see various interpretations of characters and find fresh appeal in each performance," she said.

However, Shim understands the importance the balance between a unified direction and individual expression.

"It's essential to bring out each actor's unique qualities while maintaining a cohesive intent for the character. No matter how different the actors are, they must follow the same direction to truly tell the story of ‘Kinky Boots.' After that, their unique expressions naturally bring variety because we are all different individuals and that diversity is important to me," the director said.

Shin Jae-Beom plays Charlie in the musical "Kinky Boots." Courtesy of CJ ENM

Inspiring diversity

Over the past decade, "Kinky Boots" has contributed to a growing sense of openness in Korean society, particularly through the character of Lola, a charismatic drag queen who challenges traditional norms.

"Seeing audiences cheer for a drag queen with such enthusiasm is incredible. I think Korea has become more diverse and open in many ways over the past 10 years," Shim said. "More people now celebrate individuality and independence, but we still have a long way to go in terms of true acceptance, myself included."

For Shim, one of the most powerful messages from the show is the simple yet profound idea of "accepting someone for who they are." It even influenced her approach as a director.

"I've come to spend much more time listening and understanding, recognizing that everyone brings a unique perspective," she said. "As a director, the role involves a continuous process of analysis, planning and execution, making each decision count. But I've also learned to adjust my pace to accommodate the rhythm of others, striving to embrace one of life's most challenging lessons — acceptance."

Shim emphasized that while "Kinky Boots" won't change minds overnight, it does invite audiences to look at others with curiosity rather than judgment.

"The show isn't solely about gender identity or roles. It is rather about looking beyond surface labels to the person inside," she said.

Shim hopes that Lola's strength to accept and love oneself, Charlie's journey toward true self and Don's growth in empathy will inspire viewers to create a more inclusive world.

"If this show can help people reflect on acceptance and embrace differences, then I think it is contributing to a better society," she said, "something we need now more than ever."

"Kinky Boots" runs through Nov. 10 at Blue Square in central Seoul.