From screen to stage—her next big move tackles immigrant identity and resilience

Actress Lee Joo-young is stepping into uncharted territory—her first-ever theater role.

On March 27, production company Teamhoff announced, "Lee Joo-young will debut in theater with the play Sanctuary City, set to premiere on April 22."

🗽 About the Play
Sanctuary City is a powerful work by acclaimed American playwright Martyna Majok. As the title suggests, it focuses on U.S. cities that offer refuge to undocumented immigrants—places of both hope and uncertainty.

Set in New Jersey, the story unpacks the emotional and legal struggles faced by immigrant youth. It paints a vivid portrait of navigating love, identity, and survival in a place where your very existence may be at risk.

🎭 Lee Joo-young as G

Lee plays G, a young woman who immigrated to the U.S. as a child. When her mother gains citizenship and passes it on to her, G proposes marriage to her best friend B, offering a way out of undocumented life. What starts as a practical decision reveals layers of emotional complexity.

"I truly believe Sanctuary City will touch something deep inside many people," Lee said. "It's a bold step for me, but I'm determined to show a performance filled with sincerity and truth."

She added, "I can't wait for the moment when my heart meets the hearts of the audience."

🌟 Beyond the Screen

Known for her roles across indie films, dramas, and OTT platforms, Lee Joo-young continues to explore diverse narratives. This May, she'll also appear in Wavve's original series Judgment Day (단죄).

Her agency shared, "Lee Joo-young isn't afraid to take risks—genre doesn't limit her. This theater debut is just the beginning of another artistic chapter."

🎟️ Sanctuary City will run from April 22 to May 10 at Doosan Art Center, Space111.

[Photo Credit: Doosan Art Center]