We recently connected with Yooyeon Yy Kim and have shared our conversation below.
Yooyeon YY, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
It might sound like a cliché answer, but honestly, every project I work on is meaningful in its own way. However, if I had to pick just one, I’d say it’s the recent collaboration with my actor friend from Korea. She had just released a new album and was visiting Los Angeles for a vacation—but, of course, vacations never stay just vacations in our world. We decided to turn her trip into a creative adventure.
We spent a month shooting fun, impromptu content together, busking in places we loved. We even took it on the road—performing her songs on the streets of San Francisco, staying with a filmmaker friend, and heading to the magical desert landscapes of Joshua Tree. Along the way, while shooting these street performances, we encountered people from all walks of life, including those without homes. Their stories moved us deeply, and it gave our project a new purpose.
By the time we reached the final leg of our journey, we decided to perform at a rehabilitation center for individuals in recovery. That performance at AADAP (Asian American Drug Abuse Program) was transformative. The love and support we felt from the audience was overwhelming—it reminded us why we do what we do. It wasn’t just about making content; it was about creating moments that bring joy and connection.
Through that experience, we were able to crystalize the vision for our work: to use our creative talents to share love and build community. Plus, let’s be honest—nothing beats the spontaneity of turning a vacation into a road trip-slash-production adventure.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m a producer at Studio Inganmi Production, a creative collective where storytelling is at the heart of everything we do. Our primary focus is narrative filmmaking, but what makes us unique is our deep commitment to crafting stories that resonate on an emotional level. All of our team members—writers, directors, and other creatives—share a passion for creating content that can make people laugh, cry, and feel deeply connected.
What sets us apart is our belief that storytelling is more than entertainment; it’s a way to make a difference. For us, every project is an opportunity to highlight the values and humanity that can inspire real change.
For example, last year, we worked on a commercial for a Korean traditional rice wine brand (SangMak). Instead of following a typical advertising format, we chose to tell their story in the style of a documentary. We explored the brand’s history and values, focusing on why the owner chose to pioneer their business in the U.S., even though staying in Korea might have been the easier path. That journey, full of resilience and purpose, resonated deeply with our team and shaped the way we approached the project.
This wasn’t just about promoting a product; it was about encouraging consumers to connect with a brand that embodies healthy values and moral purpose. By highlighting stories like these, we hope to inspire audiences and show that meaningful storytelling can lead to impactful choices.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about the projects we have lined up this year. Without giving too much away, we’re working on some fun and emotionally engaging pieces that we can’t wait to share. To stay updated on what we’re up to and join the journey, follow us on Instagram (@studio.inganmi). We’re here to create stories that don’t just entertain but leave a lasting impact.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
To truly support artists and foster a thriving creative ecosystem, society needs to embrace love and acceptance at its core. Creativity flourishes in environments where people feel safe to express their authentic selves without fear of judgment or rejection. This begins with fostering a culture that celebrates differences and values diverse perspectives. When we learn to love one another and embrace our differences, we create the kind of community where creativity and innovation naturally thrive.
As a producer at Studio Inganmi Production, I’ve seen firsthand how storytelling can bring people together by celebrating what makes us unique. For example, when we performed on the streets and at a rehabilitation center last year, the love and connection we felt from the audience were unforgettable. It wasn’t just about entertaining—it was about creating a moment of shared humanity. Moments like these remind us that art isn’t just a luxury or a product; it’s a powerful tool to build understanding and empathy.
In addition to cultivating love and acceptance, audiences play a crucial role by consuming a variety of content without rigidly distinguishing between major studio films and indie productions or between genres. The act of exploring diverse storytelling helps sustain a healthy creative ecosystem. But it doesn’t stop there—viewers can go further by offering constructive feedback, genuine encouragement, and thoughtful critique. This two-way interaction strengthens not only individual creators but also the creative community as a whole.
And of course, let’s not forget the most direct and effective way to support creators: money! Whether it’s contributing to a crowdfunding campaign or donating to a production in need, even small financial support can make a huge difference in bringing a creative vision to life. After all, movies don’t make themselves (though we wish they did sometimes). Governments and organizations can also play a significant role by creating more programs that provide funding and resources to artists, because sometimes what a dreamer really needs is a little more help paying for the dream.
By fostering open-mindedness, offering active support, and making meaningful investments, we can ensure that creativity not only survives but thrives, enriching all our lives in unexpected and inspiring ways.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding part of being a creative is the moments when I’m on set, working alongside the crew, and feeling—even in the smallest ways—that I’m appreciated and loved. It’s in those shared moments of connection, laughter, and collaboration where I feel the most fulfilled and happy.
As much as being an artist is about the work we create, it’s also about the people we meet and the bonds we form in the process. Whether it’s brainstorming late into the night, solving unexpected challenges on set, or celebrating the wrap of a project together, those experiences remind me why I love what I do.
Ultimately, it’s that sense of being part of something bigger—building stories with people who share the same passion—that makes this journey so meaningful. Creating something together that has the potential to move others is a privilege I don’t take for granted. And those moments of love and appreciation, no matter how small, are what keep me going.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sarajchung.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studio.inganmi/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@studio.inganmi