INTERVIEW Kim Go-eun: ' I see how each experience has helped me grow'

Actor Kim Go-eun speaks at a press conference for the film "Love in the Big City" at Megabox COEX in Gangnam, Seoul, Sept. 23. Yonhap

In the romantic comedy "Love in the Big City," Kim Go-eun takes on the role of Jae-hee, a free-spirited clubber. Through her portrayal, she brings the character's emotions to life.

However, Kim’s real life is quite different from Jae-hee’s. Reflecting on her college days, Kim said that she commuted daily through busy club streets but never felt compelled to join the party scene.

In an interview at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, Kim discussed her new film, "Love in the Big City," which premiered on Oct. 1.

The movie depicts the relationship between the carefree Jae-hee and Heung-soo (played by Noh Sang-hyun), a man accustomed to distancing himself from the world. Kim, the heroine of the smash-hit "Exhuma," embodies the fearless Jae-hee, a character unafraid to stand up to those who evaluate her without understanding her true nature.

Kim expressed her satisfaction with the positive feedback the film received following the media screening. "The reviews have been great, and it’s a relief. I hope the audience responds well, too. I’m always nervous when a film releases,” Kim said. “Our film is fun but not shallow. It strikes a good balance between humor and depth, leaving the audience with much to think about."

Despite the success, Kim acknowledged the challenges of filming. "The budget wasn’t substantial, and there were many hurdles just to get the film made. We had to shoot everything within two and a half months, which created a lot of pressure. Still, everyone worked together with such determination."

Actor Kim Go-eun / Courtesy of PlumM Entertainment

Reflecting on past

The film also features a gay character, and Kim recalled her own experiences, sharing, "I’ve had friends who confided in me about their sexuality. Some of them told me their secret. Having those friends helped me understand their emotions better, though back then, all I could do was listen."

Kim also looked back on her college years, when she lived with her grandmother and commuted through Gangnam, which was packed with popular clubs.

"I didn’t party like Jae-hee. When I was in college, I lived near Gangnam Station, where all the hot clubs were in 2010. My commute overlapped with the time when clubbers were heading home, so I often got jostled. I never thought of going to a club myself."

However, while preparing for the role, Kim visited a club for the first time and found it an enjoyable experience. "I realized clubs are fun places, and the music was amazing. I danced my heart out, which helped me portray Jae-hee’s club scenes."

Gradual growth as actor

Kim has grown as an actor throughout her career, reflecting after each project. "When a project ends, I take time to reflect. Growth isn’t always noticeable right away, but after a few years, I can look back and see that I’ve improved. Each set of experiences builds upon the last, leading to gradual improvement."

Now, Kim strives to maintain a sense of ease in her work. "I think my true charm comes out when I’m relaxed. Even in acting, I can express the points I’ve thought about more naturally when I’m at ease."

Interestingly, her love for acting has allowed her to release some of the pressure. "When you want to do something too well, there comes a point when you start feeling overwhelmed, and that actually prevents you from doing what you want. So, I’ve shifted my mindset to let go of that pressure," she explained.

“Of course, I take pride in my work. I’m grateful and happy to be living my dream of being an actor. When I approach my career professionally like this, I start to notice more and think about things in more detail.”

As Kim Go-eun continues to grow as an actor, her journey shows no signs of slowing down, even after "Love in the Big City." / Courtesy of PlusM Entertainment

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.