Kim Nam-joo Says, "I'm Doing My First Solo Show in 31 Years of Debut; I've Been Losing Sleep Lately"

May 16, 2025

Kim Nam-joo Says, "I'm Doing My First Solo Show in 31 Years of Debut; I've Been Losing Sleep Lately"
Nam-joo KimActress Kim Nam-joo shares her nervous excitement as a 'television show rookie'.

Kim Nam-joo will meet the audience through the new SBS Life television program 'Queen of Taste Kim Nam-joo', premiering on the 22nd at 8:40 PM. Ahead of the TV premiere, the content will also be released on the Kim Nam-joo YouTube channel at 11:45 AM the same day.

'Queen of Taste Kim Nam-joo' marks Kim Nam-joo's first foray into solo television content in her 31-year debut. It will showcase Kim interacting with the public and sharing all aspects of herself while honing her taste. Viewers can expect to see a different side of Kim that has not been revealed before.

In a Q&A session released on the 16th, Kim shared, "You'd think I'd be desensitized after 31 years in the industry, but embarking on a new project still gives me butterflies and, equally, scares me. I've been losing sleep over it lately." She continued, "Outside of drama sets, I can't act. If I try to fabricate my words, my mind goes blank, and I can't speak properly. I'll meet you with my honest self, in a way that I hope you'll love."

'Queen of Taste Kim Nam-joo' will air every Thursday at 8:40 PM on SBS Life, starting from the 22nd.
Nam-joo KimHere's the Q&A with Kim Nam-joo

1. How do you feel about appearing on 'Queen of Taste Kim Nam-joo'?

Even after 31 years, starting a new project still excites and scares me. Especially since I've never done television or YouTube before, it's been keeping me up at night.

2. 'Queen of Taste Kim Nam-joo' is your first solo television show. What made you decide to take on YouTube and television?

The pressure of making my television debut after 31 years is hard to describe. I've turned down several offers in the past because I believed I had "nothing to say." But now, launching my own YouTube channel and television show, I imagine those producers and writers I've turned down might feel a bit miffed. I've always enjoyed using YouTube for information, comfort, and laughs. With social media becoming a crucial communication tool, it felt like the right time to dive in. I'm not an actress who's constantly in works or known for television, so opportunities to connect with fans who remember and love me have been rare. After a few shoots, the reason for my venture into this field became clear: I enjoy sharing my stories and connecting with others.

3. Can you introduce 'Queen of Taste Kim Nam-joo' in your own words?

While the TV program is titled 'Queen of Taste', the main title on YouTube is simply 'Kim Nam-joo'. We considered various titles, but ultimately, what better title to convey my intention of showing the real me than 'Kim Nam-joo'? Some might think of me as unapproachable or fancy due to my role in 'Misty', but I might actually be closer to Cheon Ji-ae from 'Queen of Housewives'. Through this program, I hope to show that I enjoy pasta but love spicy rice cakes just as much.

4. How was your first shooting for 'Queen of Taste Kim Nam-joo'?

The first shoot involved revealing my home. I hesitated because I wondered what was so special about showing where I live, but this house, where I've raised my children for 20 years, holds a special meaning for me. I thought it was right to share this precious space with you first. The experience turned out to be fun. Unlike dramas where I play someone else, YouTube is all about showing the real 'Kim Nam-joo', which felt awkward at first but now I'm starting to enjoy it.

5. What kind of image do you want to present through 'Queen of Taste Kim Nam-joo'?

I can't act outside of drama sets. If I try to fabricate things, I just can't speak properly. I'll show you my genuine self, in a way that I hope you'll find endearing.

6. 'Queen of Taste Kim Nam-joo' will also be available on YouTube. What will be your focus in communicating directly with the audience through the channel Kim Nam-joo?

A writer friend of mine, who has known me for a long time, is working on this program with me. When she first suggested doing YouTube, I declined, saying, "I live such a boring life, I have nothing to show." But she knows me well and argued that the way I am, the places I frequent, how I shop, and everything I do for my kids could be appealing. The initial feedback from our staff, who are the first viewers, seems to confirm that.

7. Is there a guest you'd like to invite to 'Queen of Taste Kim Nam-joo'?

I'd love to invite 'Lalal', whose channel I thoroughly enjoyed last winter. Even as an actress, I admire her detailed expressions down to her fingertips. I'd also like to share and discuss the heart of a working mom with a young child. If Lalal has any parenting concerns, I'd be happy to offer advice as a senior mom.

8. Any message for the viewers?

Even though I've been acting for 30 years, I'm a rookie when it comes to YouTube and television shows. Please watch me kindly and leave lots of encouraging comments.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)