Magazine
A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
By Gabby Choi
Photo credits: Joseph Bae, Jabin Choi
Makeup by Jane Cho
Former model and actor Ricky Kim garnered immense public affection for his masculine charm on shows like Law of the Jungle and Dream Team. His wife, Ryu Seung-joo, a thriving musical actress known for her roles in Bad Boys and Dreamgirls, has accompanied him on a journey beyond Korea's entertainment realm. It has been three years since the couple, along with their three children, settled in the United States after departing from Korea's broadcast industry.
After sharing glimpses of their life in LA with Korean viewers, the family embarked on a lengthy adventure over a year ago. Starting in Guatemala, they have since journeyed through South America and are currently in New York, continually engaging in what they describe as "asking for directions on the road."
Gabby Choi: Hello, Ricky and Seung-joo, it's great to see you in New York. Many are curious about your recent activities. Could you share a greeting with your fans?
Ricky Kim: Hello, I'm Ricky Kim. It's been three years since we left the Korean entertainment scene. While living in LA, I recorded segments related to parenting, which were aired on Real Dad. Despite occasional appearances during trips to Korea, I've mostly been inactive. My move was initially driven by opportunities related to a Hollywood film, leading us to settle in Orange County, LA. In September 2018, our family began travelling through South America, and we've since reached New York. This journey offers precious and special moments, and there's no concrete plan for returning. (Laughs)
Ryu Seung-joo: Hello, I'm Ryu Seung-joo. I previously collaborated with Sheen Ae-ra in New York, where I met the Mom & I team. It's delightful to reconnect through this interview. We left for South America in September of last year, and it's our first time in New York in nearly a year. Alongside preparing for Ricky’s Hollywood project, I've been busy with parenthood and homemaking. Having been away from home for over a year, I plan to head to Toronto after New York.
Gabby Choi: What led to your decision to pause all activities in Korea and move to the U.S.?
Ricky Kim: About three years ago, an opportunity arose from Hollywood, offering not only acting roles but also producing roles. However, it was more than that; as Christians, we value our relationship with God but felt we had neglected our faith while pursuing our entertainment careers. The Hollywood offer seemed like a providence, allowing me to reassess my faith and reconnect with my family.
Ryu Seung-joo: I was expecting a child and had planned to return to my program post-delivery. At that time, we were exploring opportunities in Southeast Asia as a family, making Ricky’s suggestion to move difficult. While I initially resisted, emphasizing that the film would only take three months, I ultimately embraced Ricky’s “Family First” principle. It was a challenging period filled with tears. In hindsight, it felt like a blessing and aligned with God’s will. Had I insisted on staying in Korea, I might have advanced my career but questioned my role as a mother.
Gabby Choi: Many celebrities may struggle to leave their peak of fame. What fueled your decisive resolution?
Ricky Kim: It’s not about letting go but returning things to their rightful place. When we view success and wealth as blessings, it doesn't equate to happiness. By using my talents wholeheartedly and returning them to God, I have received greater and unexpected blessings. This belief guided my decision-making.
Ryu Seung-joo: While fame, money, and popularity are appealing, they can obscure one’s focus on God. Ricky's vigilant faith prompts me to regularly reassess my beliefs.
Gabby Choi: Maintaining faith seems challenging in the entertainment industry. How was your experience?
Ricky Kim: Temptations abound, given the industry's constant exposure to public scrutiny. With everyone aiming for the top, it's easy to overstep boundaries. My wife, while shining on stage, serves others behind the scenes, contrasting with the conventional competitive nature of entertainers.
Ryu Seung-joo: Entertainers must constantly strive to stand out, leading to exhaustion. The comfort and warmth from family after long days offered more gratitude and solace than any spotlight. Our ongoing journey allows us to rediscover our worship life as a family.
Gabby Choi: Can you tell us about your role as a producer in Hollywood?
Ricky Kim: While it’s a ‘Hollywood’ production, Heavenquest: A Pilgrim’s Progress isn’t a typical Hollywood film. It’s a fantasy adaptation of John Bunyan’s classic, made beautifully.
Ricky Kim: I hesitate to label it as a “Christian movie.” There’s a misconception that such films are low-budget and target only Christians. It’s unfortunate, as this film, produced by Christians and based on a Christian novel, is enjoyable for everyone. I acted and produced, learning immensely.
Gabby Choi: Your journey, extending over a year, seems quite extraordinary.
Ryu Seung-joo: We've been to numerous places since leaving Guatemala last September. We left our belongings there. The official reason for the trip is a family vacation, but the theme is to “train in listening to and obeying God’s voice.” We aim to discern God's plans for our family through this journey.
Ricky Kim: We purchase one-way tickets and move without knowing our next destination. Our mission includes forming friendships and sharing life and faith wherever we go. We're creating media to share these experiences, focusing on comforting youth who may lack familial support.
Gabby Choi: It feels like a faith testimony. When did you start your faith journey?
Ricky Kim: I started church life at six and became fervent in college.
Ryu Seung-joo: I came to know God as an adult. When asked, “When did you meet God?” I always reply, “This morning,” as I encounter God daily, through my children, friends, and strangers.
Gabby Choi: Might you consider attending seminary or becoming a minister later?
Ricky Kim: It's interesting; people often suggest theological paths when faith is discussed. (Laughs) I study God out of pure desire, not with intent to pursue formal ministry roles. I completed a year of seminary, paying to expand my understanding of God.
Gabby Choi: Your parenting methods differ from typical practices. Could you elaborate?
Ryu Seung-joo: Our parenting approach focuses on aligning with children’s needs, which is physically and mentally exhausting. However, by accommodating their demands, we earn their respect and authority, facilitating educational interactions.
Ricky Kim: While homeschooling, instilling new rules or knowledge is initially challenging. Parents must patiently endure until children grasp concepts independently. I advocate for “Family First,” emphasizing the crucial role of home in nurturing complete individuals.
Gabby Choi: It's been a joy and inspiration speaking with you. Any final words for our readers?
Ricky Kim: Our journey's purpose is to connect and share lives with everyone we meet. We are grateful to have met Mom & I and hope to support youth through media-related efforts. Walking God’s path will ultimately reveal His intended destination for us. Thank you.
Ryu Seung-joo: Our family cherishes meeting people on our unplanned journey, treating everyone we meet as friends. This meeting with Mom & I is significant. We wish happiness for all readers.
We extend heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the Ricky Kim family interview, including attire sponsors MaxMara and Imoga, and location sponsor Hudson Yards.
