Kim Ji-won, one of K-Drama’s most talented and beautiful actresses, captivates audiences not only with her impressive acting skills but also with her heartfelt performances in romantic dramas. Let’s explore 10 of her must-watch romantic K-dramas, each offering a unique and captivating love story, from sweet and heartwarming to deeply moving.
1. Queen of Tears (2024)
- Role: Hong Hae-in
- Synopsis: In this highly anticipated Kim Ji-won K-drama, she stars alongside Kim Soo-hyun as Hong Hae-in, the daughter-in-law of a wealthy chaebol family. “Queen of Tears” tells the story of a married couple who face a crisis that tests their love and commitment.
- Why you should watch: This drama promises a captivating blend of romance, family drama, and social commentary. With a talented cast and a renowned writer, “Queen of Tears” is poised to be one of the biggest K-drama hits of 2024.
2. My Liberation Notes (2022)
- Role: Yeom Mi-jeong
- Synopsis: In My Liberation Notes, Kim Ji-won portrays Yeom Mi-jeong, a woman yearning for freedom and deeper connections. This critically acclaimed Kim Ji-won drama explores themes of self-discovery, personal liberation, and the complexities of human relationships.
- Why you should watch: My Liberation Notes offers a poignant and introspective look at love, longing, and the search for meaning in life. Kim Ji-won’s performance is both subtle and powerful, capturing the nuances of a woman’s journey towards emotional freedom.
3. Sisyphus: The Myth (2021)
- Role: Kang Seo-hae
- Synopsis: This sci-fi thriller follows a genius engineer (Cho Seung-woo) who uncovers dangerous secrets and a skilled warrior from the future (Kim Ji-won) who travels back in time to protect him.
- Why you should watch: Sisyphus: The Myth is a high-octane drama with a unique blend of action, suspense, and romance. Kim Ji-won showcases her versatility as an actress, delivering both action-packed sequences and emotional depth.
4. Lovestruck in the City (2020)
- Role: Lee Eun-oh
- Synopsis: This modern Kim Ji-won K-drama explores the complexities of love and relationships in a fast-paced city. Lee Eun-oh’s unexpected romance with a mysterious man unfolds through interwoven stories and candid interviews.
- Why you should watch: Lovestruck in the City offers a fresh perspective on modern dating and relationships, with Kim Ji-won delivering a nuanced performance as a woman navigating heartbreak and self-discovery.
5. Arthdal Chronicles (2019)
- Role: Tan-ya
- Synopsis: Arthdal Chronicles is an epic historical fantasy drama where Kim Ji-won plays Tan-ya, a woman with a complex and forbidden love story set in ancient times.
- Why you should watch: While not strictly a romance, Arthdal Chronicles showcases Kim Ji-won’s ability to portray subtle emotions and navigate complex relationships in a unique and fantastical setting.
6. What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim (2018)
- Role: Cameo Appearance
- Synopsis: Though not a main role, Kim Ji-won makes a memorable cameo appearance in this popular romantic comedy. She plays herself, attending an awards ceremony alongside Park Seo-joon, her co-star from Fight for My Way.
- Why you should watch: What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim is a delightful rom-com with a charming cast and a feel-good storyline. Kim Ji-won’s cameo adds a fun and unexpected element for fans of her previous work.
7. Fight for My Way (2017)
- Role: Choi Ae-ra
- Synopsis: Choi Ae-ra is an ordinary woman with big dreams of becoming an announcer. This Kim Ji-won drama follows her journey of love, friendship, and career alongside her childhood friend, Ko Dong-man (Park Seo-joon). Their love story is both romantic and heartwarming, filled with personal growth and relatable struggles.
- Why you should watch: Fight for My Way presents a down-to-earth and realistic portrayal of friends-turned-lovers navigating life and careers. It’s a feel-good drama with plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments.
8. Descendants of the Sun (2016)
- Role: Yoon Myung-joo
- Synopsis: In this globally popular Kim Ji-won K-drama, she plays Yoon Myung-joo, a strong and compassionate military doctor. Her romance with Captain Yoo Si-jin (Song Joong-ki) is one of the most memorable love stories in K-Drama history.
- Why you should watch: Descendants of the Sun offers a compelling blend of love, sacrifice, and duty against a backdrop of conflict and disaster. Kim Ji-won delivers a powerful performance, portraying a love that is both passionate and resilient.
9. Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)
- Role: Aro
- Synopsis: Set in the Silla Kingdom, Hwarang tells the story of an elite group of young warriors. Kim Ji-won plays Aro, a noblewoman with a strong spirit and a complex love life.
- Why you should watch: Hwarang combines historical drama with romance and action. Kim Ji-won delivers a captivating performance as a woman who challenges societal norms and finds love amidst political intrigue.
10. The Heirs (2013)
- Role: Yoo Rachel
- Synopsis: This classic Kim Ji-won K-drama features her as Yoo Rachel, a wealthy and sophisticated heiress caught in a love triangle. The Heirs explores themes of class, love, and friendship within a prestigious high school.
- Why you should watch: The Heirs is a quintessential K-Drama with a captivating ensemble cast. Kim Ji-won shines as a complex character who navigates love, rivalry, and family expectations.
Kim Ji-won’s natural beauty and exceptional acting skills, particularly her ability to convey a wide range of emotions and create genuine on-screen chemistry, make her a “queen” in the K-Drama world, captivating viewers with diverse stories and unforgettable characters.
