Did you know that women are currently taking the spotlight in recent Korean dramas? Many of today’s K-dramas are women-centric, making actresses the heart of the buzz. This trend is clear in the FUNdex by The Good Data Corporation’s “Most Buzzworthy” ranking list! Let’s take a look at some of the leading actresses who are capturing everyone’s attention.
Kim Tae Ri
The most popular actress today is none other than Kim Tae Ri. A household name in Korean entertainment and every Kim Tae Ri’s projects are always a hit. Known for bringing complex characters to life, her passion for acting is evident in everything she does. You can see this in her latest K-drama, “Jeongnyeon: A Star Is Born,” where she plays a pansori singer in a period setting!
Must-watch show from her: For something comforting and heartwarming, Kim Tae Ri shines in “Little Forest.” In this drama, she plays Hye Won, a young woman who returns to her rural hometown to escape the pressures of city life. Through reconnecting with nature, living simply, and cooking meals from fresh, homegrown ingredients, Hye Won embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing.
Jung Eun Chae
Jung Eun Chae is an actress who truly deserves the recognition she is receiving now. With her elegant presence and versatile acting, she brings depth to every character she portrays. Known for delivering memorable performances, Jung Eun Chae is especially loved as the male lead character in the Gukgeuk performances in “Jeongnyeon: A Star Is Born.”
Must-watch show from her: One of Jung Eun Chae’s standout roles is in the 2018 historical epic film “The Great Battle,” where she plays Si Mi, a pivotal character caught in the chaos of war. The film recounts the Siege of Ansi, an intense 88-day battle in which 5,000 Goguryeo soldiers defended their fortress against hundreds of thousands of invading Tang troops.
Shin Ye Eun
Shin Ye Eun is a rising star who has not only captured attention for her ethereal beauty but also for her remarkable talent, earning a special place in K-drama fans’ hearts. She’s currently starring in the period drama “Jeongnyeon: A Star Is Born” as a talented and hardworking trainee.
Must-watch show from her: One of the most interesting dramas from Shin Ye Eun is the fantasy romance “Welcome.” She plays Kim Sol Ah, a warm and optimistic webtoon artist whose life takes an unexpected turn when she adopts a stray cat named Hong Jo. Little does she know, the cat has the ability to transform into a human!
Jung Chae Yeon
Jung Chae Yeon, a K-pop idol turned promising actress, is certainly the next actress to watch! Known for her sweet visuals and warm screen presence, she continues to impress with her growing body of work. Her roles exude a natural charm, drawing audiences in—just like her character in “Family By Choice,” where she plays the sweet daughter and friend alongside Hwang In Youp.
Must-watch show from her: One short-form K-drama where she truly captured everyone’s heart is the musical romance “to. Jenny.” In it, she portrays Kwon Na Ra, a talented young woman who dreams of becoming a singer despite facing numerous setbacks. The drama follows her journey as she crosses paths with a shy and introverted musician who secretly harbors a huge crush on her!
Kim So Yeon
Kim So Yeon is one of the best actresses in the industry, with intense and compelling performances that have solidified her as a powerhouse in the K-drama world. With a career spanning decades, she’s mastered playing complex and layered characters, especially excelling in dramatic and villainous roles. Currently, she’s portraying a very different role in “A Virtuous Business,” showcasing her range by stepping into a more positive character opposite her usual villainous roles.
Must-watch shows from her: When you mention “The Penthouse,” Kim So Yeon is the first name that comes to mind. In this drama, she plays Cheon Seo Jin, a fiercely ambitious opera singer who will stop at nothing to achieve her desires, even at the expense of others. “The Penthouse” became a cultural phenomenon, thanks in part to Kim So Yeon’s remarkable performance, which brought depth to her character and earned her a Daesang (Grand Prize)!
Kim Se Jeong
Kim Se Jeong, the multi-talented K-pop idol turned actress, is known for her infectious energy and versatile performances, making her one of the most beloved actresses in the industry today. With her radiant smile and natural charm, Se Jeong has proven herself to be one of the top idol-turned-actresses in the K-drama world.
Must watch shows from her: One of Se Jeong’s best shows is “School 2017“, where she plays Ra Eun Ho, a cheerful and determined high school student with dreams of becoming a webtoon artist. The drama captures the struggles and aspirations of students navigating the pressure of academic competition, with Eun Ho standing out for her optimism and resilience despite the many challenges she faces.
I also can’t get enough of these talented and gorgeous women. Let’s watch and support them by watching their films, dramas, and variety shows all available on KOCOWA+ with multiple subtitles!
