For many, Kim Joo-ryoung became an unforgettable figure thanks to her explosive turn as Han Mi-nyeo in Netflix’s “Squid Game”. But for those following her career more closely, it’s clear that she’s so much more than a single role. With a filmography that spans genres and borders, Kim continues to surprise audiences with her range, depth, and honesty.
Interview with Kim Joo-ryoung: “Squid Game” and the Future
We caught up with her ahead of the world premiere of her new film “Hana Korea” at the Busan International Film Festival, and during her appearance at the Milan Loves Seoul fashion show — a cultural bridge event held during Seoul Fashion Week.
Warm, humorous, and candid, Kim opened up about life after global recognition, her passion for storytelling, and the music that keeps her going.
Kim Joo-Ryoung and Life After Squid Game
Q: Your role in “Squid Game” made you known worldwide. How has life changed for you since then?
Kim Joo-ryoung: I’m so grateful that I’ve been given opportunities to work on many projects as an actress, and I’ve been doing my best to live through acting. For an actor, there is nothing happier than that~^^ Thanks to the love from fans all over the world, I’ve also had many chances to travel abroad to meet them. As long as my schedule and health allow, I’ll do my best to meet fans anywhere in the world. Please look forward to it!
“Hana Korea”: A New Challenge
Q: You’ll be appearing in “Hana Korea”. Could you share what drew you to this project and your role in it?
Kim Joo-ryoung: The film was actually completed last year, and I’m honored that it’s having its world premiere at the Busan International Film Festival. “Hana Korea” is about a North Korean defector trying to settle in South Korea. What intrigued me most was that the director is not Korean, but Danish. My character, Sook-hee, is very different from the “tough” or wild characters I’ve often played. She’s warm and strong-hearted — someone who comforts others even while enduring her own struggles. That really moved me.
Q: How different was the atmosphere on “Hana Korea” compared to the intense environment of Squid Game?
Kim Joo-ryoung: Honestly, every set is intense because we’re all working hard to create something good. “Hana Korea” was directed in English, which was a new experience. Having Sharon Choi on set was a huge help! Even though my English isn’t perfect, I tried to absorb the director’s vision even before the translation.
One beautiful touch: before each shoot, the director would send me music to capture the mood. Listening to those tracks helped me reflect and enter each scene. That kind of process was completely new to me.
Craft and Challenges of Acting
Q: As an actress, what challenges excite you the most at this stage of your career?
Kim Joo-ryoung: I don’t think any actor can master every type of role, but I believe the challenge of acting lies in saying “yes” even when you’re unsure. I’m someone who always says, “Let’s try!” So for me, every role is a fresh challenge — and that’s what makes this job exciting.
Q: Looking back, is there a character that has stayed with you emotionally even after filming ended?
While I usually let go of a character once filming ends, I often stay immersed while shooting — even on off days. My family notices it more than I do! They’ll say things like, “Are you even listening to me right now?! Who am I talking to?!”
International Recognition and Fan Love
Q: Many fans admire your versatility across film and drama. How do you approach each medium differently?
Kim Joo-ryoung: I actually don’t feel a big difference. These days, with tight shooting schedules, both formats feel pretty similar. I just act. Haha. Maybe that’s a blunt answer, but it’s the truth.
Q: What has been the most rewarding feedback you’ve received from international audiences?
Kim Joo-ryoung: Honestly, it still feels surreal that people around the world recognize me, cheer me on, and even learn Korean to connect. Some say I’ve brought hope or joy into their lives — which moves me deeply. I’m the grateful one, but they keep thanking me. And yes, I’ve heard more than once that I look like BLACKPINK’s Jisoo. Some fans even joke, “Are you Jisoo’s mom?” It’s wild!
Q: Are there any genres or roles you haven’t tried yet but would like to explore?
Kim Joo-ryoung: I’m open to everything. I’d love to take on roles that are emotionally and physically demanding — the kind that push me to the edge. Something like Frances McDormand in Nomadland, a role that makes you reflect on life itself.
Q: Outside of acting, what keeps you motivated and grounded?
Kim Joo-ryoung: My family — always. My husband, my life partner, and our daughter, who’s like a best friend. They’re my biggest comfort and energy source. They help me stay centered no matter how busy or exhausted I get. Everything I do as an actress, I do so we can live well together.
Dreams for the Future
Q: What projects should we look forward to after “Hana Korea”?
Kim Joo-ryoung: Right now, I’m filming a new family comedy called “The Generation Gap”. It’s about father-son conflict in a traditional family, and I play the mother at the center of it all. It’s a very different tone from my past roles — I think audiences will enjoy seeing this side of me.
Q: And finally, what are three songs in your playlist that our readers should check out?
Kim Joo-ryoung: Oh, great question!
- This Is Me – The Greatest Showman
- Try Everything – Zootopia
- I See the Light – Tangled
Conclusion
Whether she’s lighting up the red carpet at a fashion show or capturing hearts on screen, Kim Joo-ryoung brings a rare mix of strength, humor, and vulnerability to everything she touches. With “Hana Korea” set to make waves at Busan, and a new family drama on the way, this is clearly another exciting chapter in her journey — and we’ll be watching closely.
Special thanks to Team 8 Partners for making this interview possible and facilitating the artist connection.
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