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Hyun Jun Kim stands as the first Korean director to bring his unique vision to the Off-Broadway stage. His debut came in 2015 with Comfort Woman, followed swiftly by works like Green Card and Interview. With each new production, he continues to draw significant attention from the American musical scene. Now, six years since pursuing his dreams on American soil after graduating from the City University of New York's Theatre Department, Kim captivates U.S. audiences with themes deeply rooted in Korean history such as the comfort women, immigration issues, and the Korean War. Notably, Green Card, dealing with immigration topics, also saw the involvement of Korean actor Kim Su-ro, highlighting Kim's growing influence in both the U.S. and Korean cultural spheres.
Continuing as a groundbreaking Korean director on the Off-Broadway stage, Kim presents new musicals each year since 2015. Before envying his "success," it is essential to applaud the "dedication" that has fueled his journey. His exceptional energy, allowing consecutive annual productions, prompts curiosity about its source.
"Though it is demanding to stage numerous performances in such a short time, the thought of my team, actors, and supportive producers gives me the strength to forge ahead. When we all work together, impossibilities become achievable. We advance with the mindset of writing new chapters in the New York and Korean musical markets."
Kim's inaugural U.S. production, Comfort Woman, tackled the sensitive subject of comfort women. Selecting this topic as the first narrative was an intense decision. His inspiration draws from diverse Korean stories, including the Korean War and immigration challenges. Particularly noteworthy was the heightened attention to comfort women, amid a backdrop of controversial statements from Japanese politicians in 2012.
He recounted, "Despite the initial lack of knowledge among American producers and theater owners about comfort women, their genuine interest was piqued as they learned about the historical context."
Kim's second musical, Green Card, is a comedic narrative about a Korean student engaging in a sham marriage to obtain a green card after their student visa expires. His productions, deeply connected to Korean identity and immigrant experiences, resonate poignantly.
"In New York, many student friends face hardships. Dreaming of the 'American Dream,' they find themselves working endless jobs irrelevant to their aspirations. This challenging reality inspired Green Card, reflecting on friends striving for residency status."
Kim's endeavor in Green Card saw collaboration with notable Korean figures like actor Kim Su-ro and actresses Ham Yeon-ji and Lim Seong-min. These connections amplified his productions' appeal on both sides of the Pacific.
"After Comfort Woman, I met numerous Korean producers and eventually partnered with Kim Su-ro. He embraced the project, and we smoothly incorporated Lim Seong-min and Yeon-ji, who excelled in their roles despite the demanding schedule."
As Kim's third work, Interview, opened, curiosity lingered about his next enterprise. This thriller, revolving around multiple personalities, was a distinctive show that involved collaboration with Korean director Jeong Han-lee. Despite common concerns over creative disputes, their shared vision ensured a harmonious working relationship.
Kim contemplated the weight of being labeled the "first" Korean director on the U.S. stage. While acknowledging the associated pride and pressure, he maintained a clear focus on his initial dreams rather than titles.
"Being often referred to as 'the first' feels overwhelming. I've simply pursued what I've wanted, but the attention can be burdensome. Despite challenges and misunderstandings, I find satisfaction in my efforts."
Looking ahead, Kim is incubating future projects. "Plans include Sinabro, a tale of time travel during the Korean War, and Flushing, depicting gang rivalries in 1994. This fall, a concert at Lincoln Center will showcase Korean musical Golden Number, translated into English, featuring Broadway actors."
As Kim's productions continue to resonate on the American stage, his contributions speak volumes about the intersection of Korean and American cultural narratives. His journey and the resulting body of work are not merely personal achievements but collective milestones for the Korean artistic community.
Photo credits: Dimo Hyun Jun Kim
