Meet Alice Jihyun Kim

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alice Jihyun Kim and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alice Jihyun, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success as a performer and voice teacher is my ability to draw upon the deep resilience and strength inherent in my Korean heritage. Growing up in South Korea, I was immersed in a culture that values composure and humility, often encouraging the concealment of one’s emotions. This upbringing taught me the importance of maintaining an external calmness, which has been a powerful asset in the high-pressure world of performing arts. Yet, beneath this traditional exterior lies a fierce determination and an indomitable spirit, qualities that drive me to break barriers and challenge societal norms.

This duality of grace and grit is a thread that runs through the characters I have been privileged to portray on stage. Take, for instance, Tuptim in The King and I. On the surface, she appears to be a demure and obedient figure, but she harbors a rebellious spirit, courageously fighting for her love and freedom against oppressive forces. Similarly, April in Company may seem like a carefree and whimsical character, yet she embodies a quiet strength and a desire for genuine connection in a world that often values superficiality. These roles resonate with me deeply because they mirror my own journey of balancing external poise with inner strength and resilience.

In the audition room, I often present as the quintessential ingenue—polished, graceful, and fitting the traditional image of femininity with poise and charm. Directors see the calm exterior, which aligns with the expectations of such roles: pretty, poised, and graceful. However, what truly sets me apart is the fire that lies beneath the surface. Directors often tell me they can see the fighter spirit in my eyes, a quality that breathes life into my performances and distinguishes my interpretation of these characters. This inner fire transforms what might otherwise be seen as a typical ingenue into a vibrant and compelling figure, rich with complexity and depth.

My love for theater goes beyond performing; it is a profound passion for storytelling as a means of expressing and communicating significant messages to society. Theater, for me, is a powerful platform for sparking dialogue and inspiring change. Every performance is an opportunity to delve into important themes and bring to light issues that resonate with audiences, serving as a catalyst for reflection and transformation. Through my work, I strive to be a driving force for positive change, using the arts as a vehicle to challenge perceptions, promote understanding, and foster empathy.

Performing such complex characters has allowed me to explore the intricacies of human emotion and resilience, adding profound depth and authenticity to my craft. Every performance becomes a journey into the heart of these characters, uncovering layers of strength and vulnerability that audiences can connect with on a deeply personal level. This experience has also enriched my work as a voice teacher, where I strive to instill in my students the courage to embrace their unique stories and bring their true selves to the stage. By encouraging them to tap into their own wellspring of resilience, I hope to inspire a new generation of performers who are unafraid to challenge conventions and explore the depths of their creativity.

Moreover, my Korean heritage has been a source of inspiration in promoting cultural exchange through my work. In teaching K-Pop dance at the Korean American Family Service Center, I have had the opportunity to share the vibrant and dynamic aspects of Korean culture with diverse audiences. This experience has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of the arts to foster inclusivity and understanding across cultural boundaries. By bridging cultural divides, I aim to create a more harmonious and interconnected artistic community where diverse voices are celebrated and uplifted.

Ultimately, my success is rooted in a profound passion for storytelling, an unwavering commitment to excellence, and an earnest desire to inspire others to pursue their dreams with fearlessness and authenticity. Every role I take on, whether on stage or in the classroom, is an opportunity to channel my inner fighter, make a lasting impact, and connect with audiences on a deeper level. It is this relentless pursuit of truth and connection that continues to propel my journey as an artist, allowing me to leave an indelible mark on the world of performing arts.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is a reflection of my deep-seated belief that love is the ultimate driving force in life and art. Love fuels my creativity and compels me to tell stories that resonate with truth and empathy. What sets my work apart is my commitment to portraying characters with depth and authenticity, drawing from my diverse experiences and Korean heritage to bring unique perspectives to the stage.

I am most proud of my ability to connect with audiences, evoking emotions and sparking conversations that extend beyond the theater. One of my greatest joys is witnessing the impact my performances have on people, whether it’s providing comfort, inspiration, or a new understanding of the world around them. This fulfillment reinforces my belief that love is a catalyst for positive change and a bridge between diverse cultures and perspectives.

Reaching this point in my career was not without its challenges. Navigating the competitive world of theater required perseverance and resilience, often testing my resolve. However, love—love for my craft, for storytelling, and for the audiences I reach—has been my guiding light. It has empowered me to face obstacles head-on, embrace my identity, and remain true to my artistic vision.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are deeply rooted in the power of love to overcome adversity and foster growth. I’ve discovered that when you lead with love and compassion, you not only enrich your own life but also impact those around you in meaningful ways. This realization has shaped my approach to both my art and my teaching, encouraging me to inspire others to pursue their passions with sincerity and heart.

What I want the world to know about my journey is that, at its core, it is a testament to the belief that love triumphs over all. Through my work, I strive to illuminate the beauty and strength that love brings to our lives, encouraging others to embrace it as a force for good. My story is one of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to sharing love through art and connection.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My itinerary is focused on enjoying the diversity of the city!

Day 1: Arrival and Central Park
Morning: Arrival and check-in at a centrally located hotel in Midtown Manhattan.
Lunch: Shake Shack in Madison Square Park for a classic NYC burger experience.
Afternoon: Stroll through Central Park, visit Bethesda Terrace, and rent a rowboat at the Central Park Boathouse.
Dinner: Carmine’s for family-style Italian dining in Times Square.
Evening: Broadway show or visit a jazz club like Birdland.

Day 2: Lower Manhattan and Chinatown
Morning: Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Lunch: Dim Sum at Jing Fong in Chinatown.
Afternoon: Chelsea Market
Dinner: Katz’s Delicatessen for iconic pastrami sandwiches.
Evening: Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset.

Day 3: Brooklyn
Morning: Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Prospect Park.
Lunch: Smorgasburg, a food market with diverse vendors in Williamsburg.
Afternoon: Visit the Brooklyn Museum and the nearby Brooklyn Public Library.
Dinner: Llama Inn for contemporary Peruvian cuisine.
Evening: Drinks at rooftop bar Westlight, offering stunning views of Manhattan.

Day 4: Museums and Harlem
Morning: Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Lunch: Street food from food trucks outside the Met or on Fifth Avenue.
Afternoon: Explore the American Museum of Natural History.
Dinner: Red Rooster in Harlem for soul food.
Evening: Catch a live performance at the Apollo Theater.

Day 5: Queens
Morning: Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, visit the Queens Museum.
Lunch: Explore diverse food options in Flushing (try Korean BBQ at Mapo BBQ or dumplings at Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao).
Afternoon: Walk through Jackson Heights, known for its South Asian cuisine and culture.
Dinner: Arepa Lady for authentic Colombian arepas.
Evening: Rooftop cinema or drinks at a local bar.

Day 6: The Bronx
Morning: Visit the Bronx Zoo or New York Botanical Garden.
Lunch: Arthur Avenue for authentic Italian food.
Afternoon: Tour Yankee Stadium or explore the Bronx Museum of the Arts.
Dinner: Mexican cuisine at Xochitl Taqueria.
Evening: Drinks and live music at a local venue like the Bronx Brewery.

Day 7: Upper Manhattan and Farewell
Morning: Visit the Cloisters, part of the Met, dedicated to medieval art.
Lunch: African cuisine at Teranga in Harlem.
Afternoon: Explore Washington Heights, including the Hispanic Society Museum & Library.
Dinner: Sushi at Sushi Yasuda in Midtown.
Evening: Final night stroll through Times Square or a visit to an observation deck like the Top of the Rock for a final view of the city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In reflecting on my journey, I am deeply grateful for the many sources of support and inspiration that have shaped my career and life. My Christian faith has been a significant influence, instilling in me the values of love, compassion, and perseverance, which guide me through challenges and provide strength. I am also thankful for the mentors, friends, and family who have supported me along the way, offering encouragement and belief in my growth as an artist and person. My journey is a testament to the power of faith, love, and community, and I strive to honor these influences by creating work that uplifts and inspires while being a source of encouragement for others.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimyu_1008?igsh=dTkxeGRoZnFoY2k3&utm_source=qr 

Image Credits
Hyunjae Joo