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Entertainment • Actor

Daniel Dae Kim

Daniel Dae Kim is a South Korean-born American actor, producer, and voice actor known for roles in television, film, and stage.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Daniel Dae Kim is a South Korean-born American actor, producer, and voice actor known for roles in television, film, and stage. He is best known for playing Jin-Soo Kwon on Lost and Chin Ho Kelly on Hawaii Five-0. He also founded the production company 3AD and has been active as an advocate for Asian American representation.

Early life and education

Kim was born in Busan, South Korea, and moved to the United States with his family as a child. He studied at Haverford College and earned a Master of Fine Arts from New York University.

Acting career

He built a television career with recurring and guest roles before becoming widely known for Lost. He later starred in Hawaii Five-0 and appeared in a range of film, voice, and stage projects, including films such as Insurgent, Hellboy, Always Be My Maybe, Raya and the Last Dragon, and Joy Ride.

Producing and business work

Kim founded the production company 3AD. The company has been associated with television production, including The Good Doctor.

Advocacy and public profile

Kim has been identified as a prominent advocate for Asian American and Pacific Islander representation. His public work includes speaking on casting and representation issues.

Key facts

  • Daniel Dae Kim is best known for playing Jin-Soo Kwon on Lost and Chin Ho Kelly on Hawaii Five-0.
  • He was born in Busan, South Korea, and moved to the United States as a child.
  • He founded the production company 3AD.
  • He has been publicly involved in advocacy for Asian American representation.
  • He has appeared in films including Insurgent, Hellboy, Always Be My Maybe, Raya and the Last Dragon, and Joy Ride.
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Canadian context

Kim is relevant to Canadian readers through his work in internationally distributed film and television, especially streaming series and films available in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Daniel Dae Kim?
Daniel Dae Kim is a South Korean-born American actor, producer, and voice actor known for major roles in television and film.
What is Daniel Dae Kim best known for?
He is best known for playing Jin-Soo Kwon in Lost and Chin Ho Kelly in Hawaii Five-0.
Where was Daniel Dae Kim born?
He was born in Busan, South Korea.
What company did Daniel Dae Kim found?
He founded the production company 3AD.
Is Daniel Dae Kim also a voice actor?
Yes. He has worked as a voice actor in addition to acting on screen and stage.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Dae_Kim
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, nationality, occupation, education, spouse, years active, and major roles.
  2. Apple TV — https://tv.apple.com/us/person/daniel-dae-kim/umc.cpc.5qvsgflb0etp7vtwabxwlxkat
    Supports: Summary of career, birthplace, immigration to the United States, and major credited roles.
  3. Broadway.com — https://www.broadway.com/buzz/stars/daniel-dae-kim/profile/
    Supports: Career overview including acting, directing, producing, and advocacy.
  4. Esquire — https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/a40153184/daniel-dae-kim-aapi-interview/
    Supports: Advocacy for Asian American and Pacific Islander rights and founding of 3AD.
  5. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0196654/
    Supports: Birthplace, career notes, and spouse information.