Actor Kim Dol-dol Opens Up About Family Conflict and Reconciliation After Coming Out

Actor Kim Dol-dol has candidly shared his experiences of conflict and eventual reconciliation with his family following his coming out.

Appearing as a guest on the SBS entertainment show 'Doll Sing Four Men' aired on the 16th, Kim Dol-dol recounted his personal journey.

He confessed that he realized his difference from others in the 4th grade of elementary school. To hide his identity, he deliberately took up Taekwondo and vowed to excel academically, even maintaining a top rank in his class.

Raised in a devout Christian household, he feared disappointing his parents and strived to be an exemplary son. However, in his late twenties, he decided to come out to his parents through YouTube.

Kim Dol-dol explained, "I was too afraid to tell them directly at home, so I chose that method." He recalled, "Afterward, the household was in chaos."

Following his coming out, his parents sent numerous calls and long messages suggesting conversion therapy. This led Kim Dol-dol to cut contact for six months, and he remained estranged from his father for four years.

However, his situation improved as his career gained momentum. As he became active on YouTube and television, relatives shared news of his success, prompting his father to reach out first. "Recently, I gave my father a credit card, and I heard him proudly tell my mother, 'Our son is amazing,'" Kim Dol-dol shared with a smile.

Kim Dol-dol is actively pursuing a career as both an actor and a YouTuber, using his personal experiences to convey important social messages. He offers courage and hope to many by openly sharing the difficulties he has overcome. His honest narrative contributes to improving societal perceptions of LGBTQ+ rights.