A Life in Motion – From Dance to Pilates

Movement has always been a part of my soul. From a young age, I trained in Korean traditional and creative dance, along with ballet, falling in love with the language of the body. That early connection to expressive movement naturally led me to Pilates—a practice where strength, flow, and intention beautifully come together.

I graduated at the top of my class in Dance, and later pursued a degree in Physical Education at Ewha Womans University, seeking a deeper understanding of how the body moves, heals, and transforms. It was there that I truly discovered the life-changing potential of Pilates—not just as a method, but as a way to reconnect with the self.

I opened Barbie Dance Studio with the hope of creating a space where others could experience that same transformation. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of teaching choreography and Pilates to a wide range of students, from beginners to performers, and even sharing my passion on television, guiding well-known Korean celebrities toward healthier, more mindful movement.

At the heart of my work is a simple belief: movement has the power to heal, to empower, and to bring us home to ourselves. Through Pilates, I hope to offer not only physical strength, but a sense of balance, grace, and deep connection.

Hwajin is fluent in both Korean and English.

EPS Global Pilates Association – Vancouver Branch Director Graduated at the top of the class in Art of Dance Master’s Degree in Physical Education – Ewha Womans University Frequent TV Guest Instructor for Pilates Segments(Trainer for Celebrities & Professional Athletes) Master’s thesis : Jang, H. (2019). The effects of occupational identity on teaching efficacy and job satisfaction in dance instructors (Master’s thesis, Ewha Womans University, Department of Physical Education).

A Life in Motion – From Dance to Pilates Movement has always been a part of my soul. From a youn... Read More

Haery Hannah Kim brings a lifelong dedication to movement, rooted in her background in dance and enriched through years of hands-on experience in health and fitness. She earned her Bachelor of Kinesiology in Sport Science from Konkuk University in South Korea, a program renowned for its integrative focus on biomechanics, performance, and human movement science.

Haery is a certified NASM Personal Trainer, and has cultivated a strong foundation in strength training, rehabilitation-based movement, and Pilates instruction. She holds a KEPA Pilates certification from Korea and is currently advancing her international education by completing the STOTT Pilates certification, immersing herself in diverse methodologies from multiple global Pilates associations.

Her teaching philosophy is grounded in anatomical precision and functional movement, enabling her to tailor sessions for clients of all levels — from beginners to athletes. Through her expertise in both Pilates and barre, Haery aspires to empower individuals to experience transformative change in their bodies and to guide them toward a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Dedicated to continuous professional growth, Haery combines science-based training with an empathetic, client-centered approach to movement education.

Haery Hannah Kim brings a lifelong dedication to movement, rooted in her background in dance and ... Read More

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We are honored to welcome Kay Lee, Director of NAME Pilates & Academy in Korea, as our special guest instructor.

Kay is a fully certified STOTT PILATES® Instructor with deep expertise in Pilates education, rehabilitation, and pre- and postnatal training. She holds a Master’s degree in Sports Psychology and Human Engineering Therapy from Yonsei University Graduate School, where she cultivated a deep understanding of the mind-body connection.

She is also a Merrithew™ Certified Pre & Postnatal Specialist, having completed both the theory and practical components of the Merrithew™ Pre & Postnatal Mat program. In addition, she is a certified instructor through the KPEE International Lifelong Education Institute and currently serves as a Master Education Instructor at NAME Pilates & Academy.

With years of experience as both an educator and studio director, Kay brings a refined, evidence-based, and holistic approach to movement — blending science and art to guide clients toward physical alignment, functional strength, and inner balance.

🌿 Special Guest Instructor Kay Lee We are honored to welcome Kay L... Read More

I first started Pilates to relieve chronic neck pain I had struggled with for years. As I continued practicing consistently, the pain gradually improved, and that’s when I truly became drawn to Pilates. It wasn’t just exercise anymore—it became a powerful tool that transformed my body. That experience led me to pursue certification and begin my journey as a professional instructor.

Even after becoming certified, I didn’t stop learning. I’ve continued to take workshops focused on rehabilitation and postural correction, deepening my knowledge and skills. Seeing my clients experience relief from pain, little by little, brings me so much joy and fulfillment—because I’ve been there too, and I genuinely understand their journey.

To this day, I’m still working on healing and realigning my own body. Pilates has become more than just movement—it’s a lifelong tool for self-care and healing.

Through Pilates, I’ve come to realize how deeply connected the body and mind truly are. With every session, I’ve learned to tune into my body more, noticing even the smallest changes, and giving myself the space to breathe and reset. These personal experiences have shaped the way I teach—my goal isn’t just to guide people through movements, but to help them understand and respect their own bodies.

I’m committed to continuing this path of growth, and I hope to support many more people on their own journeys of recovery and self-discovery.

I first started Pilates to relieve chronic neck pain I had struggled with for years. As I continu... Read More

Movement has always been a natural part of my life—it energizes me, helps me focus, and brings me back to myself. As a Pilates instructor and mother of two, my own experience with pregnancy and childbirth deepened my passion for pre- and postnatal care, healthy body transformation, and restorative movement.

I hold a degree in Social Welfare and am currently studying Occupational Therapy and Psychology to better understand the mind-body connection. These studies shape my approach to Pilates—not just as exercise, but as a holistic practice for healing and self-care.

Since 2016, I’ve worked with clients of all ages and backgrounds, designing personalized sessions that support flexibility, strength, and emotional well-being. I especially love supporting women through pregnancy and postpartum recovery, guiding them with empathy and mindful movement.

To me, Pilates is more than just movement—it’s a way to transform your relationship with your body and mind. I’m here to support you on that journey.

Movement has always been a natural part of my life—it energizes me, helps me focus, and brings me... Read More