Today we’d like to introduce you to Chaeyeon Kim.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I arrived in the U.S. at 17, initially to learn English and pursue a career as a flight attendant. However, during high school, I participated in a production of Fiddler on the Roof, which ignited a passion for the performing arts. This experience led me to pursue acting more seriously, culminating in my enrollment in the acting program at Pace University.
While at Pace, I sought opportunities beyond the classroom, auditioning for various productions. This proactive approach afforded me the chance to perform Off-Broadway and at esteemed venues such as 54 Below and New York City Center. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my journey as an artist.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. Before I stepped into this industry, I didn’t fully understand what it meant to be both Asian and a foreigner in this space. I received a lot of feedback about my accent, which was difficult at first. But over time, I’ve grown proud of my Korean identity and heritage. I’ve come to realize that embracing who I am is not a limitation—it’s a powerful part of my art.
It’s not always easy, but I’m excited to continue growing, to connect with other Asian artists, and to be part of opening more doors in this industry for voices like ours.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Recently, I had the incredible honor of performing in the Off-Broadway production Blue Blind, a musical originally from Korea and produced by renowned Korean actress Haemi Park. The show is based on the beloved Korean folk tale of Shim Chong, and it was a deeply meaningful experience for me—not only as an artist, but as a Korean woman.
Portraying a legendary character rooted in my own culture on an American stage was powerful. It felt like I was carrying generations of stories, strength, and spirit with me. That’s the kind of work I want to continue—stories that bridge cultures, honor heritage, and make space for voices that haven’t always been heard.
What sets me apart is exactly that: my perspective, my roots, and my commitment to creating space for Asian stories to be seen and celebrated.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that everybody’s journey is different. As a Korean artist and a foreigner in this industry, I used to compare myself to others constantly. But over time, I’ve realized the only person I need to grow beyond is the version of myself from yesterday.
Embracing who I am—my Korean identity, my voice, my story—has become one of my greatest strengths. I’ve also learned how essential it is to build community and uplift others, especially fellow Asian artists. This industry can be tough, but when we support each other, we create something much more powerful than just individual success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chaeyeonkim.net
- Instagram: @iamchaeyeonkim
Image Credits
Ryan j. birnbaum, Matt Simpkin’s Photography, Sub/Urban Photography
