The actor's docuseries 'K-Everything' delves into the global rise of K-pop, K-beauty, and K-food
Category: Arts & Culture
Daniel Dae Kim is set to debut his ambitious new series, "K-Everything: The Global Rise of Korean Culture," on May 9, 2026, at 8:00 PM ET on CNN International. The four-part docuseries examines how Korean culture has captivated audiences worldwide, exploring the intersections of K-pop, K-film, K-beauty, and K-food.
Kim, an acclaimed actor and director, brings a personal touch to the series, having been born in South Korea and moving to the United States at the age of one. His connection to his heritage deeply informs his exploration of Korea's cultural evolution from a war-torn nation to a global powerhouse in less than three generations. "It's an examination of how Korea has risen in the course of three short generations from a war-torn third world country to one of the most modern places in the world," Kim stated in an interview.
Throughout the series, viewers will accompany Kim as he navigates various facets of Korean culture. In one episode, he attends a vibrant kimchi festival in Pyeongchang, illustrating how K-food is reshaping fine dining across the globe. He also engages with prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including K-pop star Psy, actor Lee Byung-hun, and BigBang's Taeyang, providing insights into the dynamics that have propelled Korean music and film to international acclaim.
In the K-beauty episode, Kim explores the cosmetics revolution that has positioned South Korea as a leader in the global beauty market. He visits factories where innovative products are made, including one that utilizes snail slime, a key ingredient in many skincare lines. Kim's willingness to undergo microinjections of DNA from salmon sperm—intended to reduce inflammation and improve elasticity—demonstrates his commitment to experiencing the trends he discusses. "I look like I got a little sunburn and a little redder than usual, but it’s not bad," he remarked after the procedure, adding, "OK, I’m camera ready."
The rise of Korean culture has been meteoric, with K-pop groups breaking attendance records worldwide and K-dramas dominating streaming platforms. The success of these cultural exports has led to a broader recognition of the significance of Korean entertainment in the global market. Kim's series comes at a time when mainstream media is increasingly acknowledging the depth and richness of Asian cultures, rather than relegating them to fleeting trends.
Kim's production company, 3AD, has been instrumental in advocating for diverse storytelling in Hollywood. His involvement in "K-Everything" marks a notable shift, as major networks like CNN invest in content that provides a comprehensive look at cultural phenomena rather than superficial coverage. This series highlights the allure of Korean culture and serves as a counter-narrative to the anti-Asian sentiments that have surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As Kim noted, "If we can start to understand one another a little bit through culture, then I think it is one step toward bringing together a global community. And I think the world could use a little more of that kind of mutual respect and appreciation." His hope is that the series will facilitate a greater appreciation for the intricacies of Korean culture among viewers unfamiliar with its nuances.
Following the premiere of "K-Everything," Kim's hope is that the series will entertain and educate audiences about the cultural dynamics that define Korea today. The series is available on demand via the CNN app for U.S. subscribers starting May 9, allowing viewers to engage with the content at their convenience.
As part of the promotional efforts for the series, CNN has released promotional art that showcases Kim's engaging presence as he interacts with various cultural icons. The series aims to provide an immersive experience, offering audiences a chance to explore the stories behind the success of K-pop, K-drama, and K-beauty.
Kim's personal narrative is interwoven throughout the series, as he revisits the places of his childhood and reflects on the changes that have occurred in South Korea since his family emigrated. He noted that the rapid transformation of Seoul has made it almost unrecognizable to his parents, who relied on him to navigate the new urban environment during their visits. "It was almost a foreign country to them," he said, emphasizing the cultural dissonance experienced by many immigrants.
As Kim steps into the role of host, he joins a competitive field of celebrity travel hosts, including Stanley Tucci, Rainn Wilson, and Ewan McGregor. His approach, inspired by the late Anthony Bourdain, seeks to provide a genuine and relatable perspective on Korean culture, aiming to be a "trusted guide" for viewers. Amy Entelis, executive vice president for talent at CNN Originals, praised Kim's unique perspective, stating, "He was incredibly well equipped to tackle this—deeply passionate about the subject and highly knowledgeable."
As the series prepares for its premiere, anticipation builds for what will likely be a captivating exploration of a culture that has significantly influenced global trends in recent years. Kim's dedication to presenting Korea authentically will likely resonate with viewers, paving the way for a greater appreciation of the country's cultural contributions.
With the premiere date set for May 9, 2026, audiences are eager to see how Kim's personal and professional journeys intersect in this landmark series.