Fashion icon and television personality Irene Kim will be gracing the May 2021 issue of #legend magazine, bringing her own brand of class and sophistication to the cover page.
Known as a global fashion icon, beauty blogger, social media celebrity, and brand founder, Irene Kim has become a shining example of empowerment and making dreams possible. Living between South Korea and the United States, Irene Kim took the risk, leaving her life in the US to begin her career in Korea. Now, she shares her daily life as well as fashion and beauty secrets to more than 2 million followers on her Instagram alone.
In her #legend cover shoot, Kim sports a Versace piece paired with Qeelin jewelry as she talks to the lifestyle magazine staff - sharing her insights on authenticity, feeling good, and helping others.
On authenticity, which has become a cornerstone of her massive following, Irene Kim explains that one of the most important things for her is consistency. She does, however, recognize the difficulty of staying consistent or even staying true to oneself.
"I think that's why I've been able to stay on this path and not be swayed because as long as I know what I want, it's hard for me to lose my way," the owner of the popular "Ireneisgood" online tag said.
She then went to recall one of the most memorable moments in her career: being the first Asian woman to serve as a global ambassador for beauty giant Estée Lauder. Kim tells #legend: "That was a big deal. I remember being so proud because it was the first moment that they didn't just hire me as a model. It was like a turning point because a huge global brand hired me as Irene Kim, just the way I am."
Aside from being a contributor and an ambassador for Estée Lauder, Irene Kim has also begun appearing on Korean TV. She recalls her experience, feeling "like you have to act a certain way." However, she actually enjoys the experience since she simply acts in the same way she does on her YouTube channel. She explains that it becomes stressful when people have to act or when they can't maintain authenticity.
Another achievement for the now 33-year-old celebrity is when she landed on the Forbes 30 under 30 list back in 2016. As one of the irrefutable "It Girls" of the Korean fashion scene, she became a part of the prestigious list under the Art & Style field. She heartily shares with the #legend staff: "they didn't even tell me!" She learned about her inclusion to the Forbes list only when someone tagged her on Twitter. Irene Kim adds that even when the international publication Time contacted her, she first thought that it was a scam.
"These are just labels and titles, but of course I'm very grateful to be recognized for just being myself," the 30 Under 30 alumni shared.
Her full interview, as well as her simply glamorous photo shots are available on the May 2021 issue of #legend.
