Shadiya moved to Seoul three years ago. A Turmush correspondent spoke with her about her dreams of becoming a model and actress.
Previously, Shadiya impressed her friends by showcasing Kyrgyz outfits, but now her style has caught the attention of the Korean audience.
“Seoul Fashion Week takes place twice a year. I was previously an audience member at this event, but this year I had the opportunity to walk the runway. On the fourth day of the week, I decided to present my national clothing. I didn’t have a traditional Kyrgyz dress, so I chose my grandfather's chapan (a type of coat) and my grandmother's scarf — these were the only items I had left,” Shadiya shares.
“Last year, I asked my younger brother to bring me national clothing from Kyrgyzstan, which I then showed to my Korean friends and gifted to them. However, my grandmother's and grandfather's items remain with me as a memory. I believe they have brought me good luck. Journalists and photographers at Fashion Week showed interest in me and conducted several interviews, noting that my look was unusual and harmonious,” she recounts.
Shadiya began studying the Korean language back in school and has dreamed of visiting this country since childhood. “I have been living in Seoul for three years. I started learning Korean in the eighth grade. My dream has always been to come here and fulfill my ambitions. Initially, I worked various jobs, and now I run a blog about life in Korea and shoot commercials,” she says.
“In the future, I dream of becoming an actress and acting in Korean films. I also want to make a film about our unique culture and beautiful country to show it to the whole world,” the model adds.
Shadiya takes pride in the traditions of the Kyrgyz people, which are passed down from generation to generation. “From early childhood, the traditions and customs I heard from my parents became part of my identity. Unfortunately, my grandparents are no longer with us. Their upbringing and hard work will forever remain in my memory. My grandfather, Esen Isaev, made a significant contribution to the development of our village Ak-Suu and later served as the chairman of the elders' court. I am proud of my grandfather,” she emphasizes.
Shadiya is the eldest of four children in her family.
