In March 2019, Julian Kim performed the role of Figaro in Il barbiere di Siviglia at Teatro Regio di Parma, in a production directed by Renato Bonajuto and Beppe De Tomasi — a new interpretive direction for Kim within a familiar role. His Figaro was met with glowing reviews, noted for vocal precision, clarity of diction, and commanding stage presence. Critics praised his bright timbre, secure upper register, and impressive handling of Rossini’s rapid-fire phrasing. One reviewer remarked that Kim was “vocally impeccable and extremely skilled on stage,” while another described his performance as “outstanding — to the point that he could now be considered a benchmark for the role.”