Actor’s portrayal of Serge ignites tensions over white canvas, blending humor and emotional depth in stage revival

Actor Uhm Kyu-jin has returned with the play ‘Art’.

‘Art’, which Uhm Kyu-jin recently starred in, is a black comedy that humorously depicts the process of three men’s long-standing friendship developing cracks due to a single painting. The clash of opinions over a seemingly simple white painting gradually escalates into emotional conflict, with the fractures and reconciliation in their relationship naturally revealed through everyday dialogue.

In this production, Uhm Kyu-jin takes on the role of Serge, a sophisticated dermatologist deeply interested in art. Serge is the character who ignites the conflict by purchasing the white canvas painting that serves as the catalyst for the story.

At the first performance held on the 1st, Uhm Kyu-jin captivated the stage with his stable vocal delivery, delicate expressions, and detailed eye movements, stimulating the audience’s empathy. It was truly ‘Art’. He densely expressed the complex inner psychology of the character, including selfishness and jealousy, seamlessly embodying Serge himself, proving his presence as the central axis driving the flow of the play. In scenes blending intense fights and witty ad-libs, laughter and tension alternated, immersing the audience.

Immediately after the performance, audiences sent enthusiastic praise with reactions such as, “We’ve been waiting for Uhm Kyu-jin’s Serge,” “Uhm Kyu-jin was Serge himself,” and “As expected, a reliable actor who truly delivers.”

Uhm Kyu-jin, who met audiences in the same role during the 2018, 2020, and 2024 seasons, returned to the stage as Serge once more, elevating the character’s depth with a more profound interpretation and relaxed stage mannerisms. The refined emotional lines and natural breathing, enhanced by the passage of time, once again proved the epithet “a reliable actor.”

Uhm Kyu-jin expressed his affection for the work, stating, “It is an honor to greet the audience once again with a piece I love so much. I hope this production brings joy to many.” He also directly revealed viewing highlights, saying, “The enjoyment of following the characters’ evolving emotional lines over time, intermittent laugh points, and humor derived from the dialogue’s flavor will delight audiences throughout the runtime.”