K-Musical 'Maybe Happy Ending' Wins 6 Tony Awards

The K-musical 'Maybe Happy Ending' (어쩌면 해피엔딩) has made history by winning six Tony Awards at the 78th Tony Awards ceremony held on June 8, 2025, in New York City. The show, which began its journey in a small theater in Daehangno, swept major categories including Best Musical, Best Direction, Best Book, Best Score, Best Scenic Design, and Best Actor in a Musical for Darren Criss, who played the role of Oliver.

This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone for South Korea, as it joins the ranks of prestigious American cultural awards, having previously won the Academy Award for 'Parasite' (기생충), the Emmy Award for 'Squid Game' (오징어 게임), and the American Music Awards for BTS (방탄소년단). Notably, this is the first time a musical created and produced in Korea has received a Tony Award.

During the ceremony, the audience of over 6,000 erupted in applause when Lin-Manuel Miranda announced 'Maybe Happy Ending' as the winner. Producer Jeffrey Richards expressed his gratitude, stating, 'It is an honor beyond words for this magical, beautiful, heartfelt, and human musical to receive this award.'

The show's creators, Will Aronson and Park Chun-hyu, were recognized for their innovative blend of Korean pop music and American jazz, with Park expressing appreciation for Broadway's acceptance of their work. Critics have noted that the success of 'Maybe Happy Ending' not only highlights the strength of Korean productions but also serves as an inspiration for Asian artists on Broadway.

Competing against other notable productions like 'Buena Vista Social Club' and 'The Woman Who Lived' (죽어야 사는 여자), which each received ten nominations, 'Maybe Happy Ending' emerged victorious, further solidifying South Korea's cultural influence in the global entertainment landscape. The Tony Awards also signified a resurgence for Broadway post-COVID, with the industry projected to reach $1.9 billion in revenue for the 2024-2025 season, returning to pre-pandemic levels.