How are Yuri and Min Ho from XO, Kitty related to one another in real life? Explored

Modified Jan 21, 2025 17:30 GMT

Yuri and Min Ho from XO Kitty (Image via Instagram/@thisisgiakim and @sangheonleesh)

Netflix’s XO, Kitty premiered on May 18, 2023, captivating audiences with its vibrant storyline and endearing characters. Created by Jenny Han, this series serves as a spin-off of the To All the Boys film trilogy, with Anna Cathcart reprising her role as Kitty Song Covey.

The story dives into Kitty’s journey as she ventures to South Korea to reconnect with her long-distance boyfriend. With a mix of romance and drama, the series gained critical acclaim, and in June 2023, Netflix renewed it for a second season, which premiered on January 16, 2025.

Gia Kim and Sang Heon Lee, who portray Yuri Han and Min Ho Moon, respectively, in XO, Kitty, share a unique real-life connection: they are siblings. This surprising fact was revealed by their co-star Minyeong Choi during an interview with Teen Vogue in May 2023.

"I'm not sure if I'm allowed to say this, but . . . did you know that Gia [Kim, who plays Yuri] and Sang Heon are siblings in real life?" he revealed.

Gia and Sang Heon’s sibling relationship adds a fascinating layer to their on-screen performances, as their familial bond naturally enriches their interactions on set. Fans were amazed to learn about this connection, making their portrayal even more intriguing.

XO, Kitty's plot centers on Kitty trying to negotiate love and life while enrolled in an international high school in Korea. She gets caught along the road in family secrets, rivalries, and friendships.

All about Yuri and Min Ho from XO, Kitty

The characters Yuri Han and Min Ho Moon are integral to XO, Kitty. Yuri, played by Gia Kim, is the popular and confident "queen bee" of the international high school Kitty attends.

On the other hand, Min Ho, portrayed by Sang Heon Lee, is a charming and humorous student who initially clashes with Kitty but grows to become a fan-favorite character.

The real-life connection between Gia Kim and Sang Heon Lee

Gia Kim and Sang Heon Lee are siblings in real life, a fact that astounded both their co-stars and the audience. According to an interview with Minyeong Choi, the cast discovered their relationship when Sang Heon requested to add Gia to their group chat, revealing that she was not only a member of the cast but also his sister.

This revelation introduced a new layer of dynamics to their roles, as the bond between them was evident in their interactions on set.

Gia Kim’s background and role as Yuri Han

Gia Kim, born and raised in Seoul and Hong Kong, brings a wealth of experience to her role as Yuri. With a background in journalism and theater, Gia’s transition to acting has been marked by her determination and passion.

Her portrayal of Yuri captures the character’s complexities, blending confidence and vulnerability. Fluent in English and Korean, Gia’s international upbringing aligns closely with the setting of XO, Kitty, enhancing her authenticity on screen.

Sang Heon Lee’s journey to becoming Min Ho Moon

Sang Heon Lee's journey to the stage is equally captivating. During his school years, Sang Heon, born in Seoul and raised in Hong Kong, developed an interest in drama. He subsequently pursued the study of the subject in England.

His major acting debut was in XO, Kitty, where he was encouraged to audition by his real-life sister Gia. Min Ho is one of the most memorable characters in the series due to Sang Heon's charisma and comedic timing.