Gwangju Opera's Sold-Out 'La Bohème' Heads to Daegu in Cultural Exchange

Daegu Opera House will present Gwangju Metropolitan Opera's production of Puccini's "La Bohème" as its first performance of 2026.

The Gwangju Metropolitan Opera's "La Bohème" will be staged for Daegu audiences on January 30 and 31. The performances are part of the "Dalbit Alliance," a regional exchange project promoting mutual cooperation between Daegu and Gwangju in areas including culture, arts, industry, and tourism.

The production received an enthusiastic response with sold-out performances at Gwangju Arts Center on December 5 and 6.

"La Bohème," one of Puccini's masterpieces alongside "Madama Butterfly" and "Tosca," is a perennial favorite performed consistently at opera houses worldwide. Based on French author Henri Murger's novel, the libretto was co-written by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa. Set in the back alleys of Paris during the cold season, the work delicately captures the love and lives of youth, earning its reputation in the opera world as "the quintessential winter opera" and establishing itself as a seasonal staple like the ballet "The Nutcracker."

The stage presents the poignant story of poet Rodolfo and seamstress Mimì falling in love in a snow-covered Parisian garret, while painter Marcello and singer Musetta exchange jealousy and affection—all set to Puccini's distinctive lyrical melodies.

Daegu Opera House is offering a 30 percent early-bird discount from December 10 through 31 for audiences awaiting "La Bohème." A special "Song of Four" discount of 40 percent is also available for group bookings of 4, 8, or 12 people.

"Puccini's 'La Bohème' is a bestseller in the opera world," said Daegu Opera House Director Jeong Gap-gyun. "We are delighted to present this performance that connects the cultural arts of Daegu and Gwangju at Daegu Opera House. We hope to deliver warm emotions on cold winter days through a stage filled with heartbreaking love and the passion of youth."

Ticket prices are 100,000 won for VIP seats, 80,000 won for R seats, 60,000 won for S seats, 40,000 won for A seats, and 20,000 won for B seats. Detailed information is available on the Daegu Opera House website and NOL Ticket homepage.