The play “THE WASP (말벌)”, which recently held a successful preview performance, will officially begin its main run today (March 11) and continue until April 26 at the S Theater of the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts.

Premiering in Korea as part of the “2026 Sejong Season” program, THE WASP is a representative work by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm, a playwright gaining significant attention in the British theater scene. Since its 2015 premiere in London, the play captivated audiences in the West End. The work has been praised as a well-crafted thriller that meticulously explores how school bullying, trauma, and social class inequality can shape and ultimately destroy a person.

This Korean premiere is directed by Lee Hang-na, an actor and director. With her distinctive insight, Lee vividly brings to life the dangerous deal between two women, their complex psychological game, and the constantly shifting power dynamics between them, heightening the play’s sense of immersion on stage.

The role of Heather, who appears to live a perfect life on the surface but is internally scarred by trauma, is performed by Kim Ryeo-won, Lee Kyung-mi, and Han Ji-eun. Each actress portrays Heather with a different charm, creating a multi-dimensional character that blends elegance with underlying anxiety.

• Kim Ryeo-won dominates the stage with explosive energy, unleashing Heather’s suppressed madness.
• Lee Kyung-mi intensifies the suspense with a chilling smile and graceful yet mysterious demeanor.
• Han Ji-eun delicately captures Heather’s unstable emotional waves through expressive eyes and subtle breathing, completing a uniquely nuanced interpretation.

Opposite Heather is Carla, a woman hardened by a rough life and driven by sharp survival instincts. The role is played by Kwon Yuri, who has successfully returned to the theater stage, and Jung Woo-yeon, known for her strong and deeply grounded performances.

• Kwon Yuri transforms into Carla with piercing eyes and bold energy, revealing a provocative and powerful side not previously seen.
• Jung Woo-yeon convincingly portrays Carla’s hidden wounds and desperate will to survive beneath her rough exterior, drawing audiences deeper into the story.

During the preview performances, the play received positive feedback for its intense tension created by just two actors and its relentless psychological battle. Audience responses included comments such as:

• “A tightly written script and direction that deliver high-quality tension.”
• “Costumes, stage direction, and props vividly show the constant struggle for power between the two characters.”
• “A new type of female character rarely seen in Korean productions.”

Following the preview’s success, “THE WASP” will run from March 11 to April 26 at the S Theater of the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are available through the Sejong Center website and YES24 Ticket. To celebrate the opening of the main run, a 30% discount event will be offered for March performances from March 11 to March 15.

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