South Korea’s performing arts market has experienced a significant rebound, growing over 40% compared to the previous year to reach approximately KRW 1.4227 trillion in 2023. This marks a remarkable recovery from the pandemic-induced downturn, exceeding even pre-pandemic levels.

The Arts Management Support Center (AMS Center) unveiled these findings on November 28 through its annual 2024 Performing Arts Survey based on data from 2023. Recognized as an official national statistic by Statistics Korea, the survey has tracked the performance metrics of theaters, performing arts organizations, and related operations since 2007. Covered genres include theater, musicals, classical music, traditional Korean music (gugak), dance, and multidisciplinary performances.

According to the report, total revenue from the performing arts market in 2023 increased by 46.3% from KRW 972.5 billion in 2022. Compared to 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, the market expanded by an impressive 66.8%.

The survey also revealed a rise in theater utilization rates, which climbed to 54.5% from the previous year’s 50.2%, a 4.3 percentage point increase. This suggests a growing vibrancy in performing arts venues, reflecting heightened demand and attendance.

Ticket sales emerged as the primary revenue source, accounting for 45.5% (KRW 647.2 billion) of the total revenue. Other significant contributors included performance sales and appearance fees (24%), venue rental income (14.1%), and other performing arts-related revenue streams (6%). Revenue from non-performing arts activities accounted for 5.5%, with miscellaneous income making up the remaining 2.9%.

Ticket revenue alone saw a 15.2% increase from 2022’s KRW 561.8 billion. Among genres, musicals dominated with 70.9% of the ticket sales, followed by classical music (15.2%), theater (9.7%), and dance (2.9%).

An AMS Center representative highlighted several factors contributing to this growth, including the increased supply of performances, dynamic regional tours by private production companies and organizations, and rising costs such as labor, venue rental fees, and ticket prices. These factors combined to drive a significant increase in overall market revenue.

The survey was conducted from August 1 to September 13, targeting 5,667 performing arts facilities and organizations across the nation. With a 95% confidence level, the findings offer a comprehensive overview of South Korea's revitalized performing arts sector.

As the industry continues to recover and grow, the report underscores the importance of regional performances and dynamic collaborations between public and private entities in sustaining this upward momentum. The performing arts market’s resurgence not only highlights its resilience but also signals its vital role in the country’s cultural and economic fabric.

Sayart / Kang In sig, insig6622@naver.com