Get ready to discover the fascinating journey of Brianna Kim, the talented Korean-born Canadian actress who is stepping into the spotlight as Chan-Mi in the thrilling new series “Gangnam Project.”
Based in the vibrant city of Vancouver, B.C., Brianna's journey from the Musical Theatre program at Capilano University to the silver screen has been nothing short of remarkable. With roles in notable productions like Lionsgate's “Joy Ride” and the CW series “Kung Fu,” Brianna has solidified her presence in both film and television.
While her accomplishments in mainstream media are impressive, Brianna's passion for storytelling extends to the stage, where she made her debut as Janet in the Arts Club touring production of “Kim's Convenience.” Now, she brings her multifaceted talents to “Gangnam Project,” a groundbreaking series that delves into the competitive world of K-pop training. Filmed across the vibrant landscapes of Korea and Canada, the show promises an immersive experience into the dreams, challenges, and aspirations of teens striving to become the next big K-pop superstars.
Join me in this exclusive interview as Brianna Kim gives us a peek behind the scenes of this exciting new show and shares her insights into the “Gangnam Project.”
Congratulations on “Gangnam Project!” How do you feel now that the series has aired?
I feel a sense of relief now that it’s out in the world, but I'm also nervous to know how people will react to this series! Growing up, I didn’t have shows like this or characters who looked like me that I could look up to as role models, so this is a full-circle moment for me.
Can you share insights into Chan-Mi's character arc and how she contributes to the series' overall storyline?
Chan-Mi is very competitive and has many things on the line for her, so she comes off as very cold to Hannah (Julia Kim Caldwell) in the beginning. Chan-Mi is the top prospect of OME (our K-pop training school) so this year, she has pressure from the company to debut! In order for Chan-Mi to debut internationally, Ken has been trying to set Chan-Mi up with different English tutors in hopes of improving her English but is met with tutors not being able to handle Chan-Mi’s personality. That is until she meets Hannah, who doesn’t back down and never gives up on her. Over time, Chan-Mi slowly lets her guard down, and a friendship starts to bloom throughout the episodes. Chan-Mi also has dynamic relationships with different characters on the show, but one that stands out is with her boyfriend, Supreme (Joshua Lee)!
As someone active in the Canadian theater scene, what intrigued you about Chan-Mi's role in Gangnam Project?
When I was young, I dreamed of becoming an idol like Chan-Mi, and I remember auditioning for these big Korean entertainment companies. That dream started to fade as I grew older, but auditioning for the role of Chan-Mi made me relive that dream. As actors, we have the privilege of playing pretend, so it was very healing when I heard I got the part.
Gangnam Project explores themes of cultural identity and heritage. How did you approach portraying Chan-Mi's journey in navigating these themes?
I relate to Hannah a lot as well because growing up; I felt like I wasn’t Korean enough because I moved to Canada when I was 5, and not Canadian enough because I wasn’t born in Canada. Chan-Mi sets an isolating environment for Hannah because I think she is pouring her own insecurity of self-identity out onto Hannah.
What was the process like for learning choreography for the show, and how did it add depth to Chan-Mi's character development?
Learning choreography and music quickly was very intense and difficult at times, but I think that's one of the realities of being a trainee. Knowing that learning choreography and music fast for two months was incomparable to what actual trainees in real life go through for many years actually helped me add depth to Chan-Mi’s character.
Can you share any behind-the-scenes anecdotes or funny moments from filming Gangnam Project?
All the castmates became really close in a short amount of time, so we would always break each other on set! I would say the sweetest moment behind-the-scenes was the day of my birthday. I was called to be on set until midnight, and all my castmates waited for me at my hotel until I wrapped and hosted a surprise birthday party. I still don't think my castmates realize how much that day meant to me.
How did the bond between cast members contribute to the on-screen chemistry, particularly within the dynamics of Chan-Mi's relationships?
The cast is like my new second family, and viewers will be able to see the chemistry on screen! My on-screen boyfriend Josh was the hardest castmate to work with because we would always unintentionally break each other on set, but I wouldn't have had it any other way! Josh is my best friend in real life, and the love I have for him is translated on screen.
In what ways do you think Gangnam Project challenges stereotypes within the K-pop genre through characters like Chan-Mi?
I think viewers can sometimes get carried away with the glitz and glamor of K-pop, but it’s nice to watch a character that we can all relate to in some way which can allow the viewers to humanize a character like Chan-Mi.
What aspects of Chan-Mi's personality or experiences do you find most relatable or compelling?
Having something to prove, being competitive, not knowing who she is. I always felt like I had to work harder than my peers to prove I was just as good since I was often overlooked because I was Asian. I remember my drama teacher telling me that I couldn’t play a part because I was Asian so that always stuck with me. I majored in Musical Theater so I know how competitive this environment can be, so I really channeled that part of me for Chan-Mi’s role.
Gangnam Project is ultimately a coming-of-age story. How does Chan-Mi's journey reflect the struggles and triumphs of finding one's identity?
Through Hannah, viewers will be able to see Chan-Mi slowly lowering her guard toward the people around her and feel the ultimate emotion—betrayal. I can’t give too many spoilers away, but when the trainee title is no longer with her, who is she without that title? What has she worked so hard for? Does she even know she is?
How do you hope Chan-Mi's journey will resonate with viewers as they follow her story throughout the series?
I hope the viewers can really empathize with Chan-Mi when they learn about why she became a trainee and why she's so tough on herself.
You can connect with Brianna Kim on Instagram.
Watch "Gangnam Project" on BBC.
Image and Video Credits: CBC Gem and CCBC
* Special Thanks to Brianna Kim for this exclusive interview.