Ong Seong Wu Takes the Stage in First Play ‘Shakespeare in Love’: “Proud to Have Completed My Debut Performance”

Singer-actor Ong Seong Wu has taken his first bow on the theatrical stage, making a successful debut in the play Shakespeare in Love as none other than the young playwright himself, Will Shakespeare.

The curtain rose on Ong’s first-ever stage play at the CJ Towol Theater of the Seoul Arts Center on July 6. Starring as the iconic bard, Ong captivated the audience with his portrayal of a struggling writer who finds his muse—and his inspiration—through a fateful encounter with noblewoman Viola de Lesseps.

Based on the beloved film of the same name, Shakespeare in Love imagines a whimsical origin story behind the timeless classic Romeo and Juliet. Set in 16th-century London, the play reimagines Shakespeare not as a literary legend but as a young artist in a creative slump. Everything changes when he meets Viola, whose bold spirit and deep love for the theater spark a wave of inspiration in him.

For Ong Seong-wu, best known for his work in dramas and on screen, stepping onto the stage marked a new chapter in his acting journey. Speaking after the show, he reflected on the milestone:

“This was my first play since debut, so I was very nervous,” he shared. “But I’m proud to have completed my first performance well. I’ll continue to work hard until the final show, so please keep supporting me.”

He also took a moment to thank his fans, known as WELO, for their constant encouragement:

“Thanks to WELO, I was able to finish the first performance safely. Thank you for always sending me so much love.”

Ong’s performance was met with warm applause and praise from the audience, who were touched by his emotional portrayal of Shakespeare’s youthful passion and vulnerability. His stage presence, expressive delivery, and heartfelt sincerity were especially praised for bringing depth to the iconic role.

Fans and theatergoers alike can catch Ong Seong-wu in Shakespeare in Love at the CJ Towol Theater of the Seoul Arts Center, where the play will run until September 14.