1. Overview

Kiki’s Borderline Personality Disorder Diary is a Korean original musical produced by 작작 (Jakjak). Presented in the form of a confessional talk-concert, the work tackles the life of Kiki, a young woman living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Through direct monologues, songs, and light-hearted banter, the musical balances serious psychological themes with humor and warmth, offering audiences both recognition and hope.

2. Background and Development

The piece premiered in Seoul in 2024 at CKL Stage, quickly drawing attention for its unusual subject matter and accessible storytelling. Writer-director Yoonji Jo describes the show as not only about personality disorders but also about universal feelings of emptiness, anxiety, and fear of abandonment that modern people share, regardless of nationality or background.

The musical was selected for K-Musical International Market 2024, which positioned it to be introduced to overseas producers and investors. Its subject — BPD — has contemporary resonance in the English-speaking world, where similar works often treat mental health themes as tragic or overly heavy.

3. International Performances

London Showcase (Nov 4, 2024): As part of the K-Musical Roadshow in London, Kiki’s Borderline Personality Disorder Diary was staged at the Lilian Baylis Studio, Sadler’s Wells. Unlike typical workshop readings, this showcase was performed with fully memorized lines and songs, and near-complete staging in English.

Local audiences and industry professionals responded enthusiastically. One UK producer noted that while British theatre has tackled mental illness before, Kiki’s mix of honesty, humor, and engaging music made it stand out. The show’s balance of seriousness and playfulness drew praise for accessibility and charm.

4. Artistic Approach

The performance unfolds as a hybrid diary and talk-concert, where Kiki candidly addresses her struggles with emotional instability, fear of abandonment, and impulsive behavior. Music and staging soften the heavy themes, allowing the audience to laugh, reflect, and empathize in equal measure. The result is a production that feels therapeutic while remaining theatrical.

5. Reception

Korean reviewers and international observers alike commented on the work’s high level of completion despite its newness.

A UK industry voice highlighted how Kiki offered a refreshing alternative to the overly tragic portrayals of personality disorders in British theatre.

The musical was regarded as highly adaptable for Western audiences, thanks to its universal themes and its approachable, candid tone.

6. Legacy and Significance

Though only recently premiered, Kiki’s Borderline Personality Disorder Diary has already moved beyond Korea, joining the international conversation on mental health through musical theatre. Its London showcase in 2024 marked its first step abroad and demonstrated the growing role of the K-Musical Market and Roadshow programs in exporting Korean works. By tackling difficult subjects with music and humor, Kiki positions itself as both a comfort and a cultural bridge.