interview by JANA LETONJA

Alicia Hannah-Kim stars in Netflix’s hit, Emmy-nominated series ‘Cobra Kai’, which premiered part 2 of its 6th and final season on 15th November, with part 3 premiering in 2025. Next up, she will also star in the action drama series ‘Tempest’.

What can the fans expect from Part 2 of the final season and the final episodes of ‘Cobra Kai’?

Some of the best action scenes we’ve ever had, a lot of laughs, and definitely some tears. It’s going to be explosive.

Your character, Kim Da-Eun, has become a standout character and the first female sensei in the ‘Karate Kid’ universe. What’s it been like to bring such a formidable character to life, and what aspects of her do you connect with the most?

It’s hugely enjoyable to get to play such a powerful woman. I’m so the opposite of her in real life. I’m obviously much softer and more vulnerable, but I think there’s a thread of willpower that connects us.

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skirt ALIEN EARTH
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Kim Da-Eun is both ruthless and powerful. How did you approach portraying the darker, villainous aspects of her personality while still making her relatable?

I loved getting to explore her more humorous side this season. I think in Season 5 she was sort of impervious to everything, and in Season 6 we get to unravel her a little.

Playing a sensei in ‘Cobra Kai’ must have required intense physical preparation. Can you tell us about the martial arts training you underwent for the role and what that experience was like?

We have a fully equipped stunt dojo that’s my favorite place to hang out on set. I love getting in there and learning fights with the stunt team. I’m quite active, and I lean heavily on my yoga practice for injury prevention and stability to execute the kicks.

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earrings & rings ATRA NOVA

As an Australian actress of Korean descent, how important is it to you to bring more representation to the screen, and how did that influence your portrayal of Kim Da-Eun?

Representation is such a necessity that I’m bewildered when we don’t have it. It’s just logical to me that media and storytelling should represent society accurately. Multiculturalism is normal. Diversity is normal. It inspires us to humanize those who are “different” from us. I definitely did not have that when I was younger, so I’m aware of that difference when I’m thinking about kids watching our show.

What initially drew you to acting, and how has your journey led you to this role on ‘Cobra Kai’?

I started off as a teen at the Australian Theatre for Young People and quickly discovered that acting was freeing and limitless. It took me out of myself and let me be whoever I wanted. It’s been a long journey from that little suburban kid in Sydney at theatre school.

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earrings CRISTIAN SIRIANO
rings ATRA NOVA

What keeps you energized and motivated, both in your career and in your personal life?

Good company at work and at home. I’m energized by those around me and the ideas that come out when we create together.

What are you most passionate about outside of acting?

My real life. Producing, writing, creating, and consuming art. My K-pop dance class where my friends and I go to fail.

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bodysuit RUBIN SINGER
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Are there any dream roles or projects you’re hoping to pursue next, or specific genres you’d love to explore?

I have some projects I’m developing that I’d love to bring to fruition. I’m hopeful to continue finding interesting roles in every genre. I’d like to challenge and surprise myself. That’s the ultimate goal.

What can you share with us about your next projects, including ‘Tempest’?

‘Tempest’ is streaming next year worldwide on Disney+ and Hulu. It’s the first time we’ve had such an international cast for a K-drama, and I’m just thrilled to be a part of it. It was wonderful having my worlds collide, working with American actors and a Korean crew. A memorable and special experience.

TEAM CREDITS:
talent ALICIA HANNAH-KIM
photography MARTIKA AVALON AT EARLY MORNING RIOT
styling ESTELLE APORONGAO AT EXCLUSIVE ARTISTS
makeup & hair CAROLINA BALLESTEROS AT EXCLUSIVE ARTISTS USING MAKE UP FOR EVER
editor TIMI LETONJA
editorial director & interview JANA LETONJA

IN CONVERSATION WITH ALICIA HANNAH-KIM

IN CONVERSATION WITH ZAC BURGESS