The first choreographic work of Kim as the Representative and Artistic Director of the Korea National Contemporary Dance Company is “Jungle - Sense and Response”. He believes that the environment is crucial when expressing the “uniqueness” of individual dancers. He chose the “jungle,” as an adequate place where sensation and reaction coexist and can sensitively awaken a dancer's senses. He stated, "The essence of dance is the movement of the body," and added, "Since each dancer's body is different, even if I give them the same choreography, they will express it differently. I focused on the individual differences among the dancers”.

There is a special meaning that Kim wanted to capture in “Jungle - Sense and Response.” He aimed to depict the process of starting differently and eventually integrating into one on the stage itself. The journey of getting onto the stage, as Kim sees it, is about turning various elements into a connected emotion. He explained, "When individuals think differently and communicate, they begin to feel something in common. Through communication, they eventually start looking at the same thing together."
 

Understanding the Choreographer's Intent is Key

 

He emphasized the importance of understanding the choreographer's intent. When watching a dance performance, it's difficult to fully grasp the stage if the audience only interprets it according to their thoughts. Therefore, one should accept the stage as it appears before them.

He recalled a critique from one particular critic who said, "It was a genuine work", and mentioned that this critique left a deep impression on him. He said, "Most critics focus on the artistic process, but this critic didn't approach it in the usual way and simply embraced the stage itself." He continued, "It felt fulfilling because it seemed like the audience saw the choreography just as I had intended."
 

 

Life Accompanied by Dance

 

He felt a particularly heavy sense of responsibility for this choreography, but he expressed that the challenges he faced throughout the entire process, along with the dancers, allowed him to grow even further. This stage was particularly special to him. He said, "Ever since I started choreographing at the age of 15, I've always dreamed of becoming the best choreographer." He continued, "I am finally in the position I dreamed of when I was young."

 

Kim completed all of his degrees, from undergraduate to master's and eventually doctoral, at Hanyang University. He said, "I began my journey as a professional dancer at Hanyang University." He expressed his gratitude to Hanyang University, stating, "The experiences of working hard, such as staying up late to complete assignments, have become a source of strength that has helped me endure difficult times in the future."

The Ability to Create Opportunities

 

Kim shared words of encouragement with Hanyang University students and fellow dancers. He said, "I believe all of you are working hard towards something you've set as a goal. However, the ability to create opportunities is just as important. Work diligently to create opportunities for your dreams and believe in yourself. You can do it!"