Editor's Note: 

A "scene-stealer" is a term used in various media to describe a character or actor who, regardless of their screen time, naturally captures the audience's attention with their strong personality and charm, often overshadowing the main roles. The term literally means to steal the scene. In this context, K-Vibe presents a relay interview series featuring actors who started with theater and expanded their acting range into drama and film, becoming scene-stealers. The series will be updated biweekly and will serve as an archive of scene-stealer actors with a background in Korean theater, providing valuable resources for casting directors worldwide.

 

 

▲ This file photo shows Korean actor Kim Young-min. (Yonhap)

 

 

SEOUL, Sept. 13 (Yonhap) -- Korea's veteran actor Kim Young-min (53), who has spent 26 years on stage and in media, recently spoke in an interview with Yonhap News about his dedication to each performance. 

 

"I want to continue giving my best effort to every show and take each step thoughtfully," he said.

 

Kim described himself as an INFJ personality type, noting, "I'm usually introverted and quiet, but my personality changes when I’m with close friends or acting," he said with a laugh.

 

Reflecting on his career, Kim likened theater to religion, saying, "As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to see the importance of theater. When I was younger, I focused more on enjoying the stage, but with experience, I've become more serious." 

 

He added, "The roles that come to actors feel like fate. Through them, you mature and discover new aspects of yourself."

 

Kim’s acting journey began in high school when he was introduced to theater by a friend of his older brother. In his early twenties, he joined the theater circle of the Korean YWCA Federation, and after serving in the military, he went on to attend university. He officially debuted in 1999 with the play Na Un-gyu by the theater group Mulri and entered the film industry in 2001 with Kim Ki-duk's Address Unknown. Over the years, he has become a familiar face in television dramas like My Mister, Crash Landing on You, and The World of the Married.

 

Kim recalled his earlier days in theater, admitting, "I had a strong desire to succeed quickly. I often wondered why I wasn’t getting cast in better roles. Then, fortunately, several opportunities came my way. I realized that no matter how small a role is, someone is always watching." 

 

He emphasized that rather than chasing after specific roles, he listens to the advice of those around him and tries to incorporate their insights into his performances.

 

Kim, who also serves as an ambassador for the Cultural Heritage Administration's Palaces and Royal Tombs branch, expressed his commitment to raising awareness about Korea's cultural heritage. He has a deep personal interest in national heritage, frequently attending cultural events like the Gyeongbokgung Palace Starlight Tour and the Jongmyo Daeje ritual. 

 

Last month, he participated in the launch of a program that involved walking the royal tomb paths of the Joseon Dynasty, where he encouraged the participants.

 

Looking ahead, Kim is preparing for his return to the stage in the play Hamlet, where he will play Hamlet’s close friend, Horatio. This marks his return to the play after 20 years—having played Hamlet himself in 2004. The production will be held next month at the Seoul Arts Center.

 

"I've always loved Hamlet," he said, adding, "Each production changes depending on the director and actors, so I’m really looking forward to this performance. Please look forward to seeing Horatio, who will help bring Hamlet to life on stage."

 

 

 

 

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