Yuna Kim's Stunning Transformation into a Ballerina Captivates Audiences

Yuna Kim's transformation into a ballerina is capturing attention.

On the 6th, Google Korea's YouTube channel released a campaign video titled 'Our Queen is Back,' featuring former figure skating champion Yuna Kim. The content showcases a reinterpretation of Kim's legendary short program, Saint-Saëns' 'Danse Macabre,' through ballet.

This project was created using Google's generative AI, 'Gemini,' and directed by Shin Woo-seok of the production company Dolphin Kidnapping. The legendary ballerina Kang Sue-jin, former director of the National Ballet, participated in the process of translating 'Danse Macabre' into ballet, enhancing the performance's quality. Gemini was also utilized in choreography, stage design, and costume design, adding innovative elements to the project.

In the video, Yuna Kim captivates the stage with her intense gaze and flawless movements. Despite being retired for a long time, she impresses with her strong back muscles and flexibility. Kang Sue-jin's applause and smile from the audience add another memorable moment.

Yuna Kim also used Gemini during choreography practice to meticulously analyze and refine ballet movements, showcasing a fusion of technology and art beyond simple video production. The project highlights how experts in various fields expanded creativity using AI. The video surpassed 580,000 views within 12 hours of release, demonstrating its popularity.

Director Shin Woo-seok stated, "I hope this video inspires people not to give up on their goals due to money, time, or competition, and to fully realize their potential. Yuna Kim's passionate practice to transform into a ballerina and complete the stage is a special gift for many fans."

Yuna Kim shared, "Although I skated for nearly 20 years, it's been 12 years since I retired, so my body is almost like an ordinary person's. Figure skating and ballet are distinctly different disciplines, so I'm not sure if I can meet expectations. However, I hope people will remember my efforts and recall my performances from my active days."

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr