As XO, Kitty returns for its highly anticipated third season on April 2, the series continues to stand out as a meaningful bridge between Korean culture and global storytelling. Expanding the beloved To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before universe, the show blends youthful romance with themes of identity, belonging and cross-cultural connection.
Among its cast is Michael K. Lee, a distinguished performer whose career spans Broadway and Korea’s dynamic musical theatre scene. In XO, Kitty, he portrays Professor Lee, a character who quietly anchors the story as a link between past and present within the halls of K.I.S.S (Korean Independent School of Seoul).
With a career defined by connecting cultures through performance, Lee offers a thoughtful perspective on the series global appeal. In this interview, he reflects on returning for season 3, the emotional universality of the story and the enduring power of storytelling to bring people together.
The following are excerpts from an email interview with Lee from March 11 to 26.
1.With the upcoming release of XO, Kitty Season 3, what excited you the most about returning to this project?
I’m excited for the world to see the continued evolution of the TO ALL THE BOYS I’VE LOVED BEFORE Universe! It’s such an honor to be a part of that, and having the connective piece of Lana Condor with Anna makes this season extra special.
2.How would you describe your character and the role he plays in the story?
I’m a connection to the past generations of K.I.S.S. and a representative of days gone by. The old guard, if you will. I like to see “Professor Lee’ as a consistent connective piece of the family from Season 1. You may not need much of him but having him there makes it complete and all the better!
3.XO, Kitty connects Korean culture with a global audience. From your perspective, what makes this series resonate with viewers around the world?
I have always believed the more culturally specific you make a story, the more universal it becomes. We all know what it’s like to fall in love for the first time; to have our hearts broken; to move on; to find ourselves. I don’t think it matters where you are in the world to relate to the themes and storylines. We are so proud to showcase the beauty and culture of Korea, but we also know that regardless of how we look or what language we speak, our hearts are the same. And this cast has a ton of heart.
4.Looking back on your career, was there a particular moment or experience that made you realize how meaningful storytelling and performance can be for audiences?
I remember the night I performed the musical PACIFIC OVERTURES the day after 9/11. My company and I were concerned about how we should proceed. We decided as artists we needed to do our job and remind the world how beautiful it could be. The audience that night was one of the most receptive audiences I have ever performed in front of.
5.Is there anything you would like to say to the global fans who are excited for the new season of XO, Kitty?
Can’t wait for the school year to start. Don’t be late or bear the wrath of Professor Lee! XO, Michael
Through his reflections, Michael highlights what makes XO, Kitty more than just a coming-of-age series. It is a story rooted in cultural specificity yet driven by universal emotions, love, growth and self-discovery that resonates across borders.
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