“The essence of art is to help express the things that cannot be explained, and that is an indispensable part of our lives,” says Kim Do Yeon. “Even if there was no art in the world, I believe that humans would eventually come to create art.” And so, that is exactly what she does. The 25-year-old fills her world with the revelatory poetry of music and dance; with stories of great novels, both colourful and didactic; and with the priceless craft of handmade pottery. This year, she ventures even further beyond, expanding her horizons into the enchanting realm of theatre.
Kim is no stranger to a character, having seamlessly adapted to a vast range of concepts throughout her career. In film and television, she has often appeared as a charming persona at the height of their youth—endearing but impressionable. Yet Kim’s unexpected foray into stage acting is proof that she has matured alongside her roles. By no means is she simply dipping her toes into this new territory, she is diving in headfirst.
Jacket, shirt, skirt, earring, belt and bag, all Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello.
Kim made her theatre debut in the titular role of “Anna X”—a two-person play based on the real-life story of con artist Anna Sorokin—and delivered an intense 100 minute-long performance of continuous dialogue. Hardly a month after the final run of the show, she announced her second theatrical project in April: the famously unconventional monodrama “White Rabbit Red Rabbit”. With each new stage she conquers, Kim is not merely striving on a quest for excellence—she’s searching for a means to create, and through it, finding out exactly who she is.
Jacket, shirt, skirt, bangles and boots, all Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello.
This is your first time gracing the cover of Vogue Hong Kong. What was your experience on set like? Were there any moments that stood out to you?
It was meaningful as it is my first major magazine cover and it’s been a while since I’ve been photographed for a fashion spread, so I enjoyed trying out various looks. The crew was also great and extremely professional. I was impressed to see them get together for a meeting before the shoot, so I took a photo with my phone.
This year marks your foray into stage acting. Did you grow up watching plays and had you ever considered starring in one?
I didn’t have much exposure to the theatre, but I did think about wanting to be on the stage some day. Then I just chanced upon the opportunity of “Anna X”.
Blazer, top, skirt and shoes, all Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello.
Coat and hat, all Khaite. Earrings, Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello.
Though you have starred in various films and TV shows over the years, performing in front of a live audience is quite different. How did you prepare for this new environment?
There is truly a difference. Since I don’t have the advantage of post-production editing in theatre, I physically trained to learn how to keep the audience engaged from the beginning to the end of a play.
How would you say that your time as a K-pop idol has equipped you for the theatre?
Having a live audience in front of me was nothing new, and [as an idol] I always had to maintain eye contact with them. Thanks to that experience I felt less nervous [about the theatre].
Your latest play “White Rabbit Red Rabbit” is a very experimental concept. Can you tell us more about what the experience was like?
“White Rabbit Red Rabbit” is the kind of play that you can only do once in your lifetime—that is what is most appealing about it. Actors go on stage without any prior information and it is only then that they receive a script for the first time. Throughout the performance I experienced, breathed, and felt the same energy as the audience, which is what made this play particularly memorable for me.
What was your biggest takeaway from that experience?
I’ve learned that unpredictability brings me more joy than anxiety.
Is there a play or type of role you would love to try next?
I’ve done plays in pairs or as a solo act, so next time I would like to take on a play that involves many actors sharing the stage.
They say when you turn 25 years old, you get better at thinking critically, making decisions and controlling impulses. Now that you are halfway into 25, do you agree? Have you noticed anything different about yourself this year?
I agree. The most potent feeling I’ve had throughout this year is that “I am finally living as a truly independent person.” In the past, I had been somewhat passive and simply accumulated many experiences, but now I am looking deeper into myself to figure out what it is I truly want and bravely chasing after those goals.
Earrings and bag, all Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello.
Can you tell us about a book that you’re currently reading? What made you pick it up?
“Ink and Blood” (바람이분다, 가라) by Han Kang. I have always liked Han Kang’s writing. I read “Light and Thread”（빛과 실) a little while ago, and in it she mentioned that while she was writing “Ink and Blood”, she had asked herself: “Should our lives not bear witness to what is true?” I was moved by the question and decided to read the book.
Is there an artist whose songs have inspired you lately?
Katie Tupper. I haven’t been listening to much music lately, but her songs are my current favourites.
Who or what brings you the most joy nowadays?
Sweet potatoes. Whenever I get the chance to eat them, I feel so happy.
Photographer: Hong Jang Hyun
Creative & Fashion Direction: Foxla Chiu
Stylist: Aeri Yun
Producer: Lee Kyung Kim @ BL Creative House
Makeup Artist: An Sung Hee
Hair Stylist: Lee Il Jung
Production Assistant: Lee Jin Kyung
Cover Wardrobe: Saint Laurent
Editor
Alyanna Raissa J. Payos
