According to the performing arts industry, on February 10, the evening show of Life of Piwhich was scheduled to start at 7.30pm, was suddenly interrupted at around 7.25pm five minutes before the curtain goes up. The production company cited a “technical malfunction” as the reason for cancellation.
In an emergency notice, the production team announced a compensation plan that included a refund of 110% of the ticket price, an unusually large refund intended to quickly resolve audience dissatisfaction. The company added that individual notifications would be sent sequentially via text messages and issued a formal apology to viewers.
However, despite the swift offer of compensation, public anger has shown no signs of abating.
Many audience members, especially fans who traveled from all over the country to see Park Jung Min, a highly sought-after stage actor, expressed strong objections, pointing out that “The refund amount is not the issue.”
Criticism flooded official social media accounts and online communities, with participants condemning the handling of the situation on the ground. An audience member wrote: “We were in line at the theater entrance when they announced the cancellation over a barely audible loudspeaker. Is this really acceptable?” Another added, “I overcame the stress of the ticket office and even took a day off from work just to see Park Jung Min perform. It seemed irresponsible and completely lacking in basic courtesy.”
The reaction highlights growing frustration among moviegoers over last-minute cancellations, especially when shows involve high-caliber actors whose performances attract audiences willing to invest significant time, money and effort.
The game Life of Piadapted from the global bestseller Life of Piwas supposed to introduce Park Jung Min along with Hwang Man Ik, Joo Ah and Jin Sang Hyun on stage that evening.
Although the production company promised refunds and an apology, the incident reignited debate over audience rights, crisis communication and professional responsibility in the performing arts sector.
Sources: Sports Chosun
