Ballerino Jeon Minchul, the first soloist of the famous Russian troupe Mariinsky Theatre, dances in "Sleeping Beauty." (Natasha Razina from Mariinsky Theatre)

By Aisylu Akhmetzianova and Honorary Reporter Mariia Solodkova from Russia

"My biggest goal is to become a dancer who dances happily until the end and always grows."

Ballerino Jeon Minchul, 21, is living his dream. In June last year, he joined the Mariinsky Theatre of Russia, one of the world's top ballet troupes, as first soloist, the No. 2 dancer. He is the second Korean to join the company after the latter's principal dancer Kim Kimin, who entered in June 2011.

Honorary Reporter Mariia Solodkova from Russia on Nov. 25, 2025, visited the theater in St. Petersburg, the birthplace of ballet, to interview Jeon about his journey.

Ballerino Jeon Minchul (right) plays the male lead of Albrecht in "Giselle." (Mikhail Vilchuk from Mariinsky Theatre)

How did you get your start in ballet?

I first watched a ballet performance on TV when I was little and told my mother that I wanted to do it. I initially studied traditional Korean dance at a studio and began ballet later in life. My father opposed this but eventually gave his consent after seeing my genuine love for ballet. Afterward, I started studying ballet professionally.

How did you feel after being accepted as a soloist at the Mariinsky Theatre?

When I first heard it, my mind went blank and I didn't know how to respond. I was so happy but regret not being fluent in Russian, as all I could say was "Spasibo" (Thank you).

I'd dreamed of entering Mariinsky since I was little. I would've been grateful to be accepted as a corps de ballet member, so I felt so blessed to get the opportunity to be a soloist. That makes me live with a higher sense of responsibility and seriousness.

What was most difficult about ballet?

I started at age 13, which is relatively late for ballet. It was a struggle because I lacked skills compared to my peers. But I was greatly inspired after watching international dancers around my age at a U.S. competition who truly loved ballet regardless of skill level. I have since stopped comparing myself with others and resolved to just walk my own path. Since then, I've never once thought of quitting.

What is the most memorable event from your ballet life?

That would be the first time watching "Swan Lake" featuring Kim Kimin and Viktoria Tereshkina at the Mariinsky Theatre. I was so moved that I cried and knew for certain that I wanted to dance on that stage. Joining this troupe was a major turning point in my life.

What is most important when on stage?

Sincerity before stepping on stage is paramount. When I was younger, I focused on what I accomplished on performance day. But now, I realize that how much I learn and grow during the practice process is more important.

How do the ballet cultures of Korea and Russia differ?

Korea has about six repertoire pieces per season that take place occasionally. Russia, however, has a vast and diverse repertoire, with shows held almost daily. In that environment, I learned not just mastery of movements but methods that allow a soloist to carry an entire work through power and dance.

Ballerino Jeon Minchul performs in "La Bayadere." (Mikhail Vilchuk from Mariinsky Theatre)

What was the audience's reaction when you first performed in Russia?

I was so nervous on my first stage. To be honest, I've never not been nervous on stage. Fortunately, the Russian audience was warm with loud applause and cheers, and even after the show, they waited to tell me it was "beautiful" and "great job." This gave me so much strength.

What did Mariinsky's principal dancer Kim Kimin advise?

The advice I remember most is "Don't just memorize a role in order, make each character your own." Another inspirational quote was "Some roles may be easy and others hard, but this process is how you become a dancer with depth."

How do you communicate with other dancers in the troupe?

I'm learning Russian but it's so hard. Luckily, many speak English well, so it's not a big problem. But I want to speak Russian fluently since I work in Russia, so I'm studying hard.

What message do you wish to convey to the audience through dance?

I always get a lot of happiness and comfort by watching ballet. No matter how hard my day is, watching it recharges my energy for life. I want the audience to share this feeling. I want to present a performance that resonates with them for a long time.

What are your goals?

A long-cherished dream of mine is to perform in a work like "Romeo and Juliet." My biggest goal is to just dance happily as long as I can. No matter the work or level of difficulty, I want to find and feel happiness in the process. I will become a dancer who never stops learning and always grows.

aisylu@korea.kr