When we talk about one of the greatest actresses of today, there is no doubt that Kim You Jung will always be mentioned. We’ve watched her grow from a child actress into one of the best and most in-demand stars of this generation. Right now, everyone is going crazy over her as the main character of the webtoon-based drama “Dear X,” and we totally get why, because we are seeing a whole new side of Kim You Jung as she plays a morally grey anti-hero lead!
Get To Know Kim You Jung
If there’s someone who is truly multi-talented, with the looks, talent, and charm, it’s definitely Kim You Jung! Did you know she has already been in the industry for 22 years even though she’s only 26 years old? She started her career at 4 years old and quickly became one of the most popular child actresses in Korea. She appeared as the young version of the leads in well-loved dramas like “Il Ji Mae,” “Jewel In The Crown,” and “The Moon Embracing The Sun,” which helped her earn the titles “Nation’s Little Sister” and “Sageuk Fairy” for starring in several acclaimed historical K-Dramas.
Since then, Kim You Jung has starred in numerous dramas and films that highlight her versatility. She gained even more international recognition when she co-starred with Park Bo Gum in the historical romance “Love In The Moonlight!” which became a huge domestic hit. The drama’s impact was so strong that its popularity was called “Moonlight Syndrome!” After that, she continued taking on diverse roles across different genres, proving why she is one of the best actresses of today’s generation.
Must-Watch Shows From Kim Yoo Jung
“Love in The Moonlight“
When talking about the most iconic historical K-Dramas ever, many fans immediately think of “Love In The Moonlight!” Here, Kim You Jung plays Hong Ra On, a street-smart young woman who disguises herself as a male relationship counselor. She eventually becomes the crown prince’s eunuch, with the crown prince played by Park Bo Gum!
Kim You Jung is a revelation in this role because we got to see so many sides of her. She brought Ra On to life with playfulness, sincerity, and vulnerability. The drama beautifully blends youth, romance, palace politics, and coming-of-age themes, and even features the cross-dressing trope that we love in K-Dramas! Her chemistry with Park Bo Gum also became one of the biggest reasons behind the show’s massive success, and they even won the “Best Couple Award!”
“Angry Mom“
Now, moving on to a family drama starring Kim You Jung, we have “Angry Mom,” where she stars together with Kim Hee Sun! Here, she plays Oh Ah Ran, the shy and sweet daughter of Kang Ja, a tough and fearless mother who goes undercover as a high school student to protect her daughter from severe bullying and expose the corruption happening inside the school.
This drama is not just about family but also tackles heavy themes like school violence, teenage pregnancy, and school corruption. Kim You Jung’s performance as a high school student dealing with bullying and hiding the fact that she was born out of wedlock shows Ah Ran’s emotional wounds and makes her a character we deeply care about. Her chemistry with Kim Hee Sun also brings out a strong and moving mother-daughter relationship filled with unspoken love, conflict, and healing.
“Clean with Passion for Now“
Now, let’s go to a rom-com K-Drama set in the present, starring Kim You Jung and Yoon Kyun Sang! Here, You Jung plays Gil Oh Sol, a bright and hardworking young woman who isn’t afraid to get messy literally because she does not really care about dirt and has a strong stomach. The drama follows her unexpected connection with a CEO who has extreme mysophobia, leading to a healing romance built on acceptance and emotional growth.
If you read the drama’s premise, it may sound funny, but it’s actually a lovable and feel-good rom-com! Watching You Jung’s carefree attitude toward dirt clash with Seon Kyul’s obsessively clean lifestyle is so entertaining, and together they help each other grow. You Jung’s charm, comedic timing, and warm presence make their romance feel natural and engaging, while her emotional scenes add depth to the story.
Multi-talented Kim You Jung
Aside from being an amazing actress, did you know Kim You Jung is truly multi-talented? She made her mark as a host when she became one of the MCs of “SBS Inkigayo,” showing her charm and natural stage presence. She also co-hosted the “SBS Drama Awards” for three consecutive years with Shin Dong Yup, proving that she shines anywhere she goes!
But that’s not all, Kim You Jung is also a theatre actress and has performed in musicals, showing her versatility beyond the screen. She brings the same dedication and energy on stage, handling singing, acting, and live performances with confidence and skill.
Now, the real question is: what can’t Kim You Jung do? Make sure to watch her shows and dramas, all available on KOCOWA+ with multiple subtitles!
