There’s a lot of heart and Seoul in all that Gia Kim does. The rising star—born in South Korea, and raised there as well as in Indonesia and Hong Kong—started her public-facing career as a news reporter for Korea’s Arirang TV.
Then, setting her sights on nurturing her theatrical dreams, she headed to California and a conservatory program at Los Angeles’ Art of Acting Studio.
Kim has been winning legions of fans in her costarring role as popular queen bee Yuri Han in Netflix’s hit K-drama XO, Kitty, a spinoff from the streaming service’s To All the Boys film franchise. Kim—who also appeared in the short film Happy Ending—shoots the series in Korea, but she’s thrilled to have put down roots right here in the Golden State.
Where do you live? I live in Los Feliz, L.A.
Why there? I’d lived in Hollywood and WeHo prior to this, and I had a few friends always telling me how Los Feliz is their dream neighborhood, so I got interested. It’s definitely one of those rare walkable neighborhoods in L.A., so I love that aspect, and it’s very close to Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory, which has become a very meaningful landmark for me personally.
Who or what is your greatest California love? As I’ve mentioned, the Griffith Observatory has a special place in my heart because of what it means to me. I moved here to pursue my dreams of becoming a working actor and La La Land was definitely one of those formative movies that shaped my journey earlier on. So when I first came to L.A. I knew I had to visit this place. I had the La La Land soundtrack on when I first walked up to the observatory and I still remember how my heart fluttered seeing the iconic lamp posts from the movie. Since then, it’s become a symbol of my dreams, ambition, and the reason I came here in the first place. So I love to go up there every now and again to renew and recommit to my vows and goals to reaffirm my “beginner’s mindset,” and also reflect upon my journey so far.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? That they’re all fake because they’re “so Hollywood.” Sure there are a LOT of people in the creative industry and so much history of motion pictures, which is something I genuinely love, but the fake part I don’t quite resonate with. At least, it hasn’t been my personal experience so far. I was warned about it prior to coming here, too, so I was expecting the worst, but so far I haven’t found it to be true and I don’t think I will. I really do think it’s about who you surround yourself with, and as long as you’re not being fake, you’re not going to find yourself in that environment. So that’s definitely the biggest misperception.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? The sunny weather and the health-focused aspect of L.A. people. I love both so much.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? Trips to Joshua Tree and other national parks—which I’ve yet to cover but I’d love to go to all of them.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? Already mentioned Joshua Tree—I think I go annually—and stargazing with my friends. Definitely want to do Yosemite next!
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? Honestly, I love breakfast burritos. I’d never had one before coming to California and I think they’re one of my favorite dishes here.
What is your favorite way to play in California? Going on hikes, to the beach, enjoying the deserts as well as the mountains, driving around everywhere with the top down, music blasting.
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? I love Century City Mall, even just to walk around on a good day, and also love all the shops along Melrose that have everything from secondhand finds to higher-end brands.
Best California song? “California Love” by Tupac. I mean … need I say more? Blast this song while you’re driving in L.A., you’ll know.
How would your California dream day unfold? I’d wake up in my Malibu house by the beach overlooking the ocean next to my amazing partner, taking in the glorious beauty, smelling the salty wind waking me up. Start my day with some meditation and yoga on my patio facing the waters—maybe conduct my own class with friends. My partner or I would cook up some nice healthy meal or go somewhere nearby where they do good breakfast (plenty of those here). Have a few easy meetings and check in with my team regarding projects that I have going on and planning.
Drive down PCH blasting good music with my friends and loved ones. Go to the beach, play some volleyball, take a dip, go scuba diving, whatever tickles our fancy. Go get more good food and drinks, maybe somewhere with a pool with a swim-up bar and a dance floor. Live it up. Come back to our lovely home, sit by the fireplace because it’s a nippy evening. Get some warm tea and blankets. Gaze at the stars by the outdoor fire. Watch a nice movie or play some board games with people I love. Snuggle into my warm soft bed with my partner, ready to take on the next day. Perfect.