Actress, singer, and songwriter Jihae recently released her newest music video “Utopia” and called it a “protest against hate” amid the recent attacks in the Asian community.
“Utopia is my protest against hate in a non-protest kind of form because it’s a message about love and unity…All of us who are going through this threat of violence against us for being Asian, for absolutely no reason, truly, and the nonsensical hate crimes that are happening all over the world, it’s almost inevitable that we feel anger towards this.”
Jihae went on to say she hopes everyone can come together and combat a virus, such as hate. The talented artist mentioned in an effort to find inner peace with the surge in hate crimes against Asian Americans, she devoted an entire year to produce the uplifting song, “Utopia.”
The music video was directed by famed photographer, director Paola Kudacki, who’s best known for her work on Time Magazine’s 100 covers and portraits for the 2019 Golden Globes, to name a few. Behind the lens, was cinematographer Jeffrey Kim, who has filmed for “Solo – A Star Wars Story,” and produced by Mark Elliot.
Not only is Jihae a talented singer, but she’s also an incredible actress and is currently filming Season 3 of HBO’s “Succession.” Jihae plays a recurring role as Berry Schneider, a public relations consultant in the Emmy-winning drama.
In honor of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Jihae’s message to aspiring artists is to “always believe in yourself” and “don’t let other people ever tell you who you are.”
Jihae’s music video “Utopia” is currently playing on YouTube.