Girl Group Member’s Unexpected Musical Casting Sparks Massive Backlash Over “Preferential Treatment”
Reactions among musical theater fans are divided over STAYC’s Sieun making her debut in the musical Seopyeonje, with some raising concerns about “preferential treatment.”
On April 2, STAYC’s agency High Up Entertainment announced, “STAYC’s Sieun has been cast in the musical Seopyeonje, which will premiere on April 30 at the BBCH Hall of Gwanglim Art Center.” Sieun will take on the role of Song Hwa, a true artist who follows her own path while standing up to fate.
One of the biggest changes this season is the newly introduced role of “Older Song Hwa.” Previously, a single actor portrayed Song Hwa from her youth through old age. However, for performances featuring Sieun, the role of older Song Jwa will be played by a separate actor.
This season’s Song Hwa cast includes Sieun, Lee Ja Ram, Cha Ji Yeon, and Lee Bom Sori. Among them, actress Jung Eun Hye, who plays “Older Songhwa,” will appear only in Sieun’s performance dates.
As a result, reactions from musical fans have been mixed.
Some audiences have expressed confusion over the structure, noting that demanding pansori scenes—an important element of the production—will not be fully performed by Sieun, with portions instead handled by Jung Eun Hye.
Others have pointed out that splitting the role could disrupt immersion. The decision feels even more unusual considering that Cha Ji Yeon, who was also cast as Song Hwa, was in her 20s at the time of the show’s original run.
On the other hand, there is also positive anticipation surrounding the fresh approach and unconventional casting, drawing attention to how Sieun’s performance will ultimately be received.
Sieun herself addressed the issue directly through the fan communication platform Bubble.
In response to a fan message saying, “It’s a shame you’re too young to play older Song Hwa,” Sieun replied honestly, “It would be a bit difficult for me to convincingly portray a woman in her 70s with my face… There could be a sense of disconnect.”
I’m the youngest Song Hwa ever. Naturally, I do feel a level of burden in many ways.
— Sieun
STAYC’s Sieun is not the only girl group member who got called out for preferential treatment. Read more about another popular K-Pop idol who sparked controversy after news that she will be performing on a major stage after only five months of violin lessons:
Idol-Turned-Actress Faces Controversy Over Preferential Treatment
