Korea National Opera celebrates the 60th anniversary of its establishment by performing KNO’s first ever performance in 1962, to look back on the past 60 years and contribute to the development of Korea’s cultural arts. Prince Hodong was very well-received during its premiere for its strong dramatic structure and folksy and comfortable melodies. It tells the story of Prince Hodong of Goguryeo and Princess Nakrang of an enemy country who falls in love with him. In this tragic story, Hodong strives to reclaim the land of Nakrang, while the princess’s devoted love leads her to destroy the magical drum, Jamyunggo. Prince Hodong reclaims the land because of her support. Her father, King Nakrang is so angry that he kills his daughter.
This story of two Buddhist nuns is an exploration of the Korean experience of the relationship between hardship and religious salvation. Trainee Soon-nyeo is forced to confront her True Path by walking among the people, while venerable Jinseong must pursue enlightenment through her inner practice.
