Gia Kim Wikipedia, Biography, Age, Net Worth, Real Name, Parents, Husband, Movies, TV Shows, Nationality, Family
Gia Kim is a South Korean actress who achieved international fame for her breakout role in the Netflix series XO, Kitty, which premiered in 2023. In the show, she portrays Yuri Han, a stylish and complex “queen bee” student at an elite international school in Seoul. As of 2026, the series has continued its success, with Kim remaining a central figure in the cast through its third season, which premiered in April of this year.
Born in Seoul and raised in Hong Kong, Kim’s background is as multicultural as the show that made her famous. She eventually moved to Los Angeles to pursue her passion for acting, enrolling in the Art of Acting Studio and working in the restaurant industry to support herself before landing her first major booking. Interestingly, Kim’s real-life brother is Sang Heon Lee, who also stars in XO, Kitty as the character Min Ho. The two kept their sibling relationship a secret from the production team and their fellow cast members until after they were both cast, surprising everyone with the coincidence.
Beyond her work on screen, Kim has become a notable figure in the fashion world and a vocal advocate for Asian representation in Hollywood. She has been featured in major publications like Teen Vogue, Forbes, and Elle Canada, and is frequently seen at high-profile events, including the Academy Awards and various Haute Couture fashion weeks. Her transition from a drama student to a global television star has solidified her position as a key talent in the “K-Wave” of actors making a significant impact on Western media.
Quick Profile Summary Table
Early Life and Family Background
Gia Kim was born on November 4, 1992, in Seoul, South Korea, under her birth name Jeong-Yeon Lee. Her early years were marked by a high degree of mobility and exposure to different cultures. While she was born in Korea, she spent a significant portion of her upbringing in Hong Kong.
Parents and Cultural Upbringing
Kim’s parents were initially traditional regarding her career path. Like many Asian parents, they were reportedly reluctant to support her transition into the unpredictable world of acting, favoring more stable professional routes. However, Gia’s passion for the arts was undeniable from a young age. Despite the initial hesitation, her parents eventually became her biggest supporters, a transition Gia often speaks about with gratitude. In 2025, she shared that watching the premiere of XO, Kitty with her parents was one of the most nerve-wracking yet rewarding moments of her life.
The Secret Sibling: Lee Sang Heon
Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of Gia Kim’s family life is her relationship with her younger brother, Lee Sang Heon. In a coincidence that seems scripted for a movie, both siblings were cast in XO, Kitty without the production team knowing they were related. Gia plays Yuri Han, while Sang Heon plays Min Ho.
They kept their sibling bond a secret throughout the entire casting process and early production to ensure they were judged solely on their individual merits. It wasn’t until after they were both officially part of the cast that they revealed the truth to their co-stars and the Netflix team, a revelation that went viral globally.
Education: Building a Professional Foundation
Gia Kim’s path to Hollywood was paved with a strong academic and artistic foundation. She did not simply rely on her natural talent; she pursued rigorous training to hone her craft.
University of Hong Kong
Before moving to the United States, Gia attended the University of Hong Kong, where she pursued a diverse range of interests. She graduated with degrees in Journalism and Music. This background in journalism gave her a deep understanding of storytelling and media, while her music degree reflected her early ambition to become a professional pianist—a career path she nearly chose over acting.
Training in Los Angeles
Driven by a desire to act on a global stage, Kim moved to Los Angeles and enrolled in the Art of Acting Studio (Stella Adler Studio of Acting). During this period, she lived the life of a typical struggling artist, waiting tables and working at coffee shops to fund her education and lifestyle while auditioning for roles. This period of “grit” is something she credits for her grounded nature and work ethic today.
Career: The Rise of a Global Star
Gia Kim’s career is a masterclass in the “overnight success” that took years of preparation.
Early Career and Short Films
Before her big break, Gia appeared in smaller projects to build her portfolio. In 2021, she starred in a short film titled Happy Ending, which allowed her to showcase her range to casting directors. She also spent time auditioning for K-dramas in Seoul, though she faced initial rejections that only fueled her determination to improve.
Read Also: Sami Bebawi Wikipedia, Biography, Age, Net Worth, Wife, Career, Family
Breakthrough with “XO, Kitty” (2023–2026)
In 2023, Gia Kim was cast as Yuri Han in the Netflix series XO, Kitty, a spin-off of the To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before franchise. Her character, the daughter of a powerful hotelier, was initially seen as an antagonist but evolved into one of the most beloved and complex characters on the show.
As a lesbian character navigating family expectations and her own identity, Yuri became a beacon for LGBTQ+ representation in the Asian diaspora. By the time Season 3 premiered in April 2026, Gia’s character had completed a massive arc, moving from a “closeted” socialite to a self-assured young woman. Season 3 specifically explored her maturity and her enduring bond with her friends at KISS (Korean Independent School of Seoul).
Fashion and Endorsements
Gia’s striking features and sophisticated style have made her a darling of the fashion world. As of 2026, she has collaborated with several high-end brands, including:
-
Prada: Frequent appearances at fashion shows and digital campaigns.
-
Rare Beauty: A vocal supporter of Selena Gomez’s brand, focusing on mental health and natural beauty.
-
Dr. Jart+: Representing K-beauty on a global scale.
Gia Kim Net Worth 2026
As of 2026, Gia Kim’s net worth is estimated to be between $1.8 million and $2 million.
Her wealth is derived from three primary streams:
-
Netflix Salary: As a main cast member of a long-running, successful series, her per-episode salary saw significant increases between Season 1 and Season 3.
-
Brand Endorsements: Her status as a global influencer has led to lucrative contracts with beauty and fashion houses.
-
Speaking Engagements: Gia is a sought-after keynote speaker on topics such as Asian-Pacific heritage and mental health in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life: Relationships and Husband
Many fans frequently search for information regarding Gia Kim’s husband or boyfriend. As of April 2026, Gia Kim is not married.
She is notoriously private about her romantic life. While there were internet rumors linking her to various individuals, including a brief confusion with a different “Gia Kim” mentioned in wedding publications, the actress remains focused on her career and personal growth.
Movies and TV Shows List
While her filmography is still growing, the quality of her projects has been consistently high.
Conclusion
Gia Kim’s biography is a story of cultural bridge-building and artistic dedication. In just a few years, she has transitioned from a journalism student in Hong Kong to a globally recognized actress in Los Angeles and Seoul. Her portrayal of Yuri Han has not only provided entertainment but has also sparked important conversations about identity and representation. As she moves beyond the XO, Kitty franchise in late 2026, the industry eagerly anticipates her next move, whether it be in a gritty action film or a prestige K-drama.
FAQs
How old is Gia Kim in 2026?
Gia Kim is 33 years old. She was born on November 4, 1992.
Are Gia Kim and Lee Sang Heon really siblings?
Yes, they are biological siblings. Gia is the older sister of Lee Sang Heon, who plays Min Ho in XO, Kitty.
What is Gia Kim’s real name?
Her real name is Jeong-Yeon Lee. She uses Gia Kim as her professional stage name.
How tall is Gia Kim?
She is 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) tall.
Is Gia Kim married?
No, Gia Kim is currently single and has never been married.
What did Gia Kim study in college?
She graduated from the University of Hong Kong with degrees in Journalism and Music. She later studied acting at the Art of Acting Studio in Los Angeles.
What is Gia Kim’s net worth?
Her net worth is estimated to be approximately $1.8 million to $2 million as of 2026.
Can Gia Kim speak multiple languages?
Yes, she is fluent in English and Korean, and proficient in Cantonese due to her upbringing in Hong Kong.
What was Gia Kim’s first major acting role?
Her first major breakout role was playing Yuri Han in the Netflix series XO, Kitty in 2023.
