Daniel Dae Kim Still Has One Wish for His Career: ‘It’s Something I Haven’t Done’ (Exclusive) 

Daniel Dae Kim Expresses Desires for Career Growth: ‘Something I Haven’t Explored Yet’

Daniel Dae Kim, a well-known actor in his 50s, has achieved significant success in his acting career, including notable roles like Jin-Soo Kwon in Lost and Chin Ho Kelly in Hawaii Five-0. Despite his commendable accomplishments, Kim reveals that there is one particular type of role he is eager to tackle. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Kim discloses that he aspires to play a romantic lead character in a film or series. He acknowledges that, given his age, the role might shift from “boy meets girl” to “man meets woman.” This desire stems from his observation of how Asian men have been traditionally portrayed in Hollywood, with limited opportunities in romantic storylines. Kim expresses optimism about the evolving landscape of Asian representation in film and hopes to be part of breaking down these stereotypes.

Through his work on stage and screen, Kim has been a trailblazer for Asian representation in the entertainment industry. Earlier this year, he made history by becoming the first Asian actor to be nominated for a Tony Award for Best Lead Actor in a Play for his performance in Yellow Face on Broadway. Reflecting on this achievement, Kim emphasises the progress that has been made in terms of representation but also highlights the ongoing need for further advancements. He envisions a future where an Asian man triumphs in this prestigious category, symbolising a broader cultural shift.

In his latest project, the Prime Video series Butterfly, Kim not only acts but also serves as an executive producer. The show follows a former intelligence operative pursued by his own daughter, exploring complex familial dynamics and espionage themes. Filmed in various locations in South Korea and featuring dialogue in both Korean and English, Butterfly underscores Kim’s dedication to showcasing Korean stories on a global platform. The actor expresses his pride in presenting a nuanced depiction of Korea to audiences worldwide, viewing the series as a love letter to his heritage.

Kim sees Butterfly as a testament to the progress in Asian representation in media, pointing to recent successes like Parasite, Crazy Rich Asians, Squid Game, and Beef as milestones in this journey. He believes that each contribution, including his own show, plays a vital role in shifting perceptions and fostering a more inclusive industry. Grateful for the positive changes he has witnessed, Kim remains hopeful for continued evolution and is honoured to be part of this transformative period in entertainment.

Despite his achievements, Kim remains focused on his growth as an artist and the impact of his work. He emphasises the importance of appreciating the journey amidst the hustle of daily responsibilities, acknowledging the need to pause and reflect on the progress made. As Butterfly premieres on Prime Video, Kim invites audiences to join him on this artistic voyage, one that celebrates diversity and challenges conventional norms in storytelling.

In conclusion, Daniel Dae Kim’s unwavering commitment to diversity and representation in the entertainment industry serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors and creators. By advocating for more inclusive narratives and seizing opportunities to broaden his own artistic horizons, Kim continues to make a significant impact on the cultural landscape. As he navigates through his career, Kim’s dedication to authenticity and progress sets a standard for the industry to follow.