South Korea’s last circus, Dongchoon, holds up as it marks centennial
The Last Circus in South Korea: A Legacy of Tradition and Resilience
In the bustling city of Ansan, just south of Seoul, lies a hidden gem that has stood the test of time – Dongchoon Circus Troupe, South Korea’s last and oldest circus. Established in 1925, Dongchoon Circus has been a beacon of entertainment for generations, captivating audiences with its awe-inspiring acrobatic performances and colorful shows.
Gone are the days of elephant and monkey acts, as Dongchoon now focuses solely on acrobatics, juggling, and tightrope walking under the iconic big top. Despite the decline of traditional circuses in South Korea due to the rise of television, movies, and other forms of entertainment, Dongchoon has managed to survive and thrive, thanks to the dedication and vision of its head, Park Sae-hwan.
Park, an 80-year-old circus veteran, has been with Dongchoon since 1963, witnessing the highs and lows of the circus industry. After a brief hiatus in the supermarket business, Park returned to save Dongchoon from closure in 1978, ensuring that the circus’s rich history and cultural significance would not be forgotten.
With a team of 35 Chinese acrobats, Dongchoon continues to mesmerize audiences with its gravity-defying stunts and breathtaking performances. While some may view circus jobs as too risky and low-paying, Park remains committed to preserving the art form by establishing a circus school in Ansan to nurture future generations of South Korean circus artists.
The legacy of Dongchoon Circus goes beyond entertainment; it is a testament to resilience, tradition, and the enduring spirit of performing arts. As one spectator aptly put it, “It was a very impressive and meaningful circus, but I also thought about how much big pains and hardships those circus acrobats underwent to perform like this.”
As Dongchoon looks towards the future, its mission is clear – to continue creating captivating circus performances that will delight audiences for another 100 years. With their unwavering dedication and passion for the art form, Dongchoon Circus stands as a shining example of tradition and excellence in the world of entertainment.
