Cover Story: Enter the Enchanted Woods with Actress, Kim Min-ha

Like the flowers found in a forest-like garden in Seoul's Hannam-dong, where our cover shoot is taking place, South Korean actress Kim Min-ha has quietly, yet resolutely come into bloom. In 2022, the burgeoning star captured the attention of a wider audience with Apple TV+’s critically-acclaimed Pachinko, a series adapted from the 2017 novel that bears the same name — one which describes a Korean family’s immigrant journey over generations. Also starring veterans Youn Yuh-jung and Lee Min ho, Pachinko was quickly renewed for a second season, which just saw its finale air just some weeks ago. With the much-awaited final episode of season two now out in the world, L’OFFICIEL SINGAPORE speaks to Kim about what lies ahead.

Hi Min-ha! You’re very much recognised for your role in Pachinko. Could you describe your experience working on seasons one and two?

The Pachinko set is a place filled with love and encouragement. Every crew member and actor showered me with such love and care that I was able to really devote myself to the role of Sunja. By the time we got to shoot season two, we had gotten so close and it felt like everyone was family. And in that context, Pachinko transcended itself as a project and taught me how to receive and give love. It was an in-depth lesson in learning how to cherish the character and her story.

What was most challenging about working on season two and what was the most valuable lesson learnt?

My biggest concern was portraying the weathering of Sunja throughout the course of time. In essence, I had to maintain Sunja’s “colour” while faithfully showing her journey and experiences. I spent a lot of time deliberating over how to best show this change in a balanced way. But I found that most of these challenges were resolved on set — by interacting with the actors on set, trusting the process, and just letting it all flow naturally. The biggest lesson I took away from season two was the power of steadfast hope in any situation. Love and light will always exist, even in adversity, and I thought this was the anchor for Sunja and her family.

What little things did you learn from your Pachinko co-stars including Youn Yuh-jung and Lee Min-ho?

I learned everything from everyone all the time. I was grateful and inspired to even just receive their characters’ energy and see their dedication to the craft. I was the youngest and the “rookie” on set, so I got to really learn a lot from their calmness and improvisational problem-solving abilities, as well as their constant empathy and caring. Even answering this question fills me with a sense of gratitude for my colleagues, and I look forward to seeing them again.

Some of your upcoming projects include the film, Exposure, as well as Light Shop Keeper and Way Back Love. How has preparing for these projects been?

I’ve been focusing on preparing for these projects, as usual. Reading the script multiple times, imagining, forging connections with these characters — this is always such a challenging but also exhilarating process. In terms of acting, viewers can count on seeing me venture into new territory, so I’m excited and curious about their reception.

Through this time of working on multiple projects, have you had any rituals to help you destress, and keep yourself balanced and content?

Meditation is one of my oldest routines. I try to “feel” my entire body and the ground I’m stepping on, while setting aside time dedicated only to myself. Also, I really value time set aside to zone out! I try to “empty” my mind any chance I get because it also demands to be filled, quite frequently. Last but not least, I legitimately melt when I see my dog Moonk, and it’s like all of my stress dissipates the moment I see her.

Are there any career moments in particular that you’re proudest of or think back very fondly of?

The Pachinko season one premiere comes to mind. All of the spotlight, the never ending interviews, and the endless camera flashes and shutters… I still remember it all like it was yesterday. The moment I got out of the car, everything was happening before I could even feel my nerves. But the relief, breeze, temperature, and the lights of it all were so memorable, and what I had yearned for after so long. It felt like a movie. I have that entire day recorded in my diary.

This month, our issue is beauty themed. Complete this sentence: To me, beauty is...

Being honest and being myself.

And this one: If I could, I would fill my world with...

Love and Haribo (I love Haribo!).

What aspirations do you have for the future, both professionally and personally?

I must confess, I’m actually not the type to set huge, long-term goals for myself. I tend to do my best in a given moment or an opportunity that’s in front of me — I think it’s because I don’t like to have regrets. So, for the future, I’m excited to see myself continue this journey of giving it my all, and the myriad of interesting and cool things I’ll encounter in the future. I owe it to my curious nature, but everything is so fun, and I’m looking forward to what lies ahead on this path.

We’re nearly at the end of 2024. Is there anything you’d like to accomplish before the year ends?

2024 was a year filled with lots of work but also rest. I can’t believe it’s November already! In the two months left until the new year, I want to continue to work hard and rest while spending time with the people I love, having fun, and seeing lots of cute things.

Editor-in-Chief IAN LEE
Photography JI+DOH
Styling KIM SO JUNG
Hair JO MI YEON
Makeup HWANG HUI JUNG
Photography assistants TETRIS
Styling assistant YEO MIN JI
Hair assistant JANG HAN NA
On-set production KIM YOU HAH and KIM HAE CHAN
Videography KIM HAE CHAN