UP-CLOSE & PERSONAL
KIM DISCLOSES THE MORE INTIMATE DETAILS OF HER LIFE.
HOW SHE STARTS HER MORNINGS
“Check my phone, eat my Ssunsu ginseng jelly, and take my vitamins.”
HER COFFEE ORDER “Black, no sugar. I can drink up to three cups a day. If it’s Starbucks, I’ll get black coffee with almond milk and a splash of hazelnut syrup.”
HER SON KYDEN
“He’s brought me good luck. Everything in my life became better after I had him, and I’ve grown closer to my family.”
HER MENTAL WELLNESS
“I saw some mental health professionals when I was younger, but I keep getting misdiagnosed. I used to get depressive episodes a lot, but it’s been happening less now. I started seeing a psychiatrist earlier this year, and he’s been very helpful. It’s easier to change when you recognise the problem.”
HER MOST-PRIZED HANDBAG
“My Himalaya Birkin. It was a gift from my dad when I was pregnant. It’s of great sentimental value because he seldom buys expensive bags for me. I guess he sees the value of Hermes bags now (laughs)!”
HER BIGGEST REGRET “Disappointing my dad when I was younger. He believes strongly in education, but I was rebellious and didn’t take my studies seriously. I wouldn’t change a thing though – everything happens for a reason, and all those experiences shaped me into who I am today.”
HER DATING DEAL-BREAKER
“No cheating and lying.”
HER LOVE LIFE IN A WORD “Turbulent. Everybody is like ‘Get out of it!’ but I’m like, ‘Aiyah just let me be, I’ll figure it out’.”
One thing that has remained constant for Kim, though, is her philanthropic work. She notes that, since young, she has been made aware of her privileged position and the importance of giving back.
“I try to do whatever I can, whenever it’s needed,” she says. As such, she still makes it a point to get involved despite her busy work schedule, and has even set up a voluntary organisation under Kelhealth. Last year, it distributed hand sanitisers, wet wipes and Dettol soap to the elderly, and food to medical staff at hospitals and dormitories.
This year, she’s concentrating her efforts on healthcare workers stationed at the various vaccination centres and swab sites, bringing them treats to fuel and cheer them on. She expresses some disappointment in the way that healthcare workers have been discriminated against throughout the course of the pandemic, pointing out: “They’re risking their lives and their families to go to work, to protect us.”
LOVE LIFE
The conversation shifts to her relationship status when I ask what’s been annoying her recently in a round of rapid-fire questions. She ponders for a bit, and with a weak smile, replies: “Relationship problems, haha!” She coolly lets on that her love life is a little rocky at the moment, but takes some time to consider her next words.
“I’m still figuring it out,” she says carefully, adding that she’s not looking to rush into anything, and her focus right now is on her work and family. That said, Kim’s wellmeaning friends and associates would like us to put it out there that yes, Kim Lim is single. But just how available – only she can tell.