Hee Seo: South Korea’s Trailblazing Prima Ballerina

Hee Seo © Pinterest

Hee Seo, born March 13, 1986, in Seoul, South Korea, is a ballet icon whose lyrical grace and emotional depth have made her a principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre (ABT), one of the world’s leading companies. As the first Korean to achieve this rank in ABT’s history, Seo’s journey from a young dancer in Seoul to a global star exemplifies resilience, talent, and a commitment to artistry. In 2025, at 39, she continues to captivate audiences and mentor the next generation, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer.

A Late Start, A Rapid Rise

Seo’s ballet journey began at age 12, relatively late for the discipline, when she started training in Russian ballet techniques at a local academy in Seoul. Her natural talent was evident, and at 13, she won a scholarship to the Universal Ballet Academy, followed by training at the John Cranko School in Stuttgart, Germany. In 2003, at 17, she joined the ABT Studio Company, a feeder program for the main troupe. Her rapid ascent saw her become a soloist in 2010 and, at just 26, a principal dancer in 2012—the youngest in ABT history at the time and the first Korean to earn the title. Critics, including The New York Times, praised her “unhurried purity” and “lyrical, open style,” noting her ability to embody characters with a unique feminine strength.

Mastering the Classics

Seo’s performances in full-length ballets like Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, and Romeo and Juliet have defined her career. Her debut as Princess Aurora in The Sleeping Beauty and the dual role of Odette/Odile in Swan Lake in 2012 showcased her technical precision and emotional depth. She described Swan Lake as her most challenging yet rewarding role in a Pointe magazine interview, citing its physical and mental demands. Frequently partnering with stars like Roberto Bolle and Cory Stearns, Seo’s performances, such as her 2016 Romeo and Juliet at Wolf Trap, earned acclaim for their “elegance and authority,” as noted by critic Alastair Macaulay. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength has made her a standout in classics like Giselle and La Bayadère.

Breaking Barriers

Seo’s promotion to principal in 2012 marked a historic moment for Korean ballet dancers, who were inspired by trailblazers like Kang Sue-jin. As one of only three ABT principals promoted from the Studio Company, her achievement highlighted her exceptional talent. Julia Moon, Universal Ballet’s director, called Seo’s acting and dancing “incredible,” predicting her rise early on. Beyond the stage, Seo’s humility and work ethic have resonated, with Vogue describing her as “unspeakably lissome.” Her modeling for Bloch pointe shoes, where she rotates three to six pairs daily to maintain support, reflects her dedication to the craft. In 2025, she continues to perform with ABT, recently appearing in Swan Lakeat the Metropolitan Opera House, while mentoring younger dancers through masterclasses.

Cultural Impact and Advocacy

Seo’s success has elevated the visibility of Korean dancers globally, alongside contemporaries like Park Sae-eun and Kang Sue-jin. Living in Manhattan, she remains connected to her roots, often returning to Seoul to teach workshops. Her advocacy for diversity in ballet aligns with ABT’s inclusivity efforts, inspired by figures like Misty Copeland. Seo’s performances, sponsored by Pamela and David B. Ford, have brought Korean artistry to international stages, while her story inspires young dancers in South Korea, where ballet has grown in prominence. Social media posts on X praise her as a “role model for Asian dancers,” reflecting her cultural impact.

A Lasting Legacy

At 39, Hee Seo continues to redefine ballet’s boundaries, balancing principal roles with mentorship. Her journey from a late-start dancer in Seoul to ABT’s first Korean principal is a testament to perseverance and artistry. As she told The Wall Street Journal, her love for full-length ballets drives her to embrace their challenges, creating performances that resonate emotionally. In 2025, Seo’s ongoing work with ABT and her influence on aspiring dancers ensure her legacy endures, not only as a performer but as a pioneer for diversity and excellence in ballet.

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By Vitalina Andrushchenko, Staff Writer