IDENTIFICATIONABLE: A Photo/Interview series to find out how people see themselves, where they thing they belong? what they identify with? Identity in the modern world.
EPISODE #2: YEOHAN KIM (Actor Model, “Spiritual Hipster”)
TARIQ ELMERI: Who is Yeohan Kim? Define your identity?
Yeohan Kim: I was originally born in South Korea and I have been living in the UK since I was 4 years old. I’ve been Muslim for a year now. When I was self harming I heard the Athan (call to prayer), and I read the Quran, a verse that said “with hardship comes ease” spoke to me. If I had to put it in one category, I identify as a spiritual hipster. Which means that I’m a spiritual person living in the modern world. I do like materialistic things, I do what I like but I’m still conscious. I enjoy going to Rumi’s Cave in Kilburn (London) because you come as you are and there’s no judgment there. In terms of nationality, I see myself as British even tough my mum tells me I’m Korean. The only two Korean things about me is that I speak Korean and eat Korean food. Overall, I’m like an onion with many different layers.
TARIQ ELMERI: What do you do and what are you working on now?
Yeohan Kim: I do acting, presenting and commercial modeling. The last job I did was for a Dutch cheese brand.
TARIQ ELMERI: What gigs do you enjoy?
Yeohan Kim: I love all my work because I’m never in an office and it’s so random. One day I’ll do a photoshoot, the next I’ll be doing a film or a voice over session. And I like the company of people in this industry, because we have a lot in common. I like it everyday.
TARIQ ELMERI: What does fashion mean to you and what brands and clothes do you like wearing?
Yeohan Kim: Fashion is a kind of medicine for me. I used to get bullied when I was younger, my fashion style makes me more confident. My dress style is inspired by the TV presenters and musicians I like. Now that I’m older, I like to dress smart, dapper, and old fashion like a gentleman. If not suits then waist coats.
TARIQ ELMERI: What are you wearing today?
Yeohan Kim: Today I’m wearing a double breasted suit from Reiss a British brand. And a Paul smith tie. I like skulls, so I got these from Religion. And the necklace that says (Allah) in Arabic is from a Turkish designer called Gente Jewelry in Camden market.
TARIQ ELMERI: Where do you see yourself in 2020?
Yeohan Kim: I will be 34! hopefully I’ll have my own place, presenting on MTV, working in the USA.