NBC’s St. Denis Medical has quickly become a fan favorite for its sharp mockumentary humor, heartfelt moments, and standout performances—and few shine brighter than Kahyun Kim as the confident and delightfully chaotic travel nurse, Serena. In a new interview with Pop Culture Unplugged, Kim opened up about why this role means so much to her, what makes the show special, and what fans can expect in Season 2.
Her Dream Job on NBC
For Kahyun Kim, joining St. Denis Medical is a full-circle moment. “It’s my dream job, and I don’t say that lightly,” she shared. “I grew up in Korea watching Friends to learn English, so to now be on an NBC comedy—it’s an iconic moment for me.”
She adds that the mockumentary format and the chemistry among cast and crew make the experience especially fulfilling: “I love mockumentaries. The people I work with are amazing, and the scripts are just so good. It’s such a good set to be on.”
Becoming Serena
When asked what drew her to Serena, Kim laughed: “In the pilot episode, Serena humps a desk, and I said, ‘I’m going to get that role.’ She has me, and I’m her.”
Serena’s charm lies in her mix of blunt honesty and lovable chaos. “She tells it how it is—not because she’s mean, but because she’s real. She brings a lot of chaotic energy but also becomes the voice of reason sometimes.”
Serena’s Growth in Season 2
As St. Denis Medical returns, Kim says viewers will see new layers to Serena. “She’s learning a lot—getting better at her job, developing friendships, and maybe a little romance too,” she teased.
The writers, she says, now write with the cast in mind: “It feels more lived in. Sometimes I’ll read something and think, ‘Wait, I’ve said that before!’ They really know us now.”
On Working with Comedy Legends
Kim couldn’t help but praise her co-stars, including David Alan Grier and Allison Tolman. “They’re such fantastic actors and even better people. Watching them improv and stay in the moment is just mind-blowing. Everyone’s so kind—it makes going to work every day a joy.”
What’s Next for Serena
Looking ahead, Kim hopes future seasons will explore Serena’s backstory. “It’d be nice to know more about her personal life—her past, her baggage, what makes her who she is,” she said with a grin. “Maybe even a spinoff. She’s a travel nurse, after all—she could go anywhere!”
Final Thoughts
Whether she’s delivering heartfelt care or stealing a scene with her comedic timing, Kahyun Kim’s Serena continues to be a highlight of St. Denis Medical. With her charm, confidence, and unfiltered honesty, Serena embodies the heart of the show—and Kim’s enthusiasm for the role makes it clear she’s just getting started.
Watch new episodes of St. Denis Medical now on NBC and streaming next day on Peacock.