South Korean singer-actor Ivy to debut on Broadway in "Chicago"

SEOUL, June 23 (Yonhap) -- South Korean singer-actor Ivy said Tuesday she hopes her upcoming Broadway debut in the musical "Chicago" will serve as an opportunity for American audiences to open up toward Korean musicals.

The 44-year-old is set to take on the role of Roxie Hart in the iconic musical scheduled to run at the Ambassador Theatre in New York from Aug. 17 through Sept. 6, following a yearlong auditioning process.

"It's been 16 years since I made my musical debut. I'm old, and I don't speak English well, but I think this huge opportunity came because I stuck with one path for a long time," she told reporters in a press conference.

Since first appearing in the Korean production of the musical in 2012, Ivy has performed in the role over six seasons spanning nearly 600 shows until 2024.

"As I acted, I felt Roxie's aspiration to become a star, despite undergoing difficulties, resembled myself, and this probably resonated with audiences," she said.

But even for the seasoned performer, language is one issue she is trying to deal with as she prepares for her Broadway debut, especially given that Roxie is among the musical roles with the most lines.

Ivy said she was first offered an opportunity to audition for the role four years ago but had turned it down because she was worried about the language barrier.

"I didn't have the courage back then, but this time I thought, even if it doesn't work out, I'll still improve as a performer," she said.

During the auditioning process, where she had to perform the musical number "Funny Honey" and Roxie's monologue, Ivy said she received feedback on her pronunciation.

"I'm a 'native Korean,' and everything feels so daunting. No matter how hard I try, my pronunciation may never be perfect, but my goal is to work hard and deliver the messages of 'Chicago' through my lines and songs," she said, adding she is taking lessons from nine tutors to sharpen her English.

"I'll try my best so that American audiences can open their hearts to Korean musicals and that I can leave a good impression as someone representing South Korea."