Im Soo-jung is a talented South Korean actress who has captivated audiences with her versatile performances since her debut in the late 1990s. Known for her ability to portray a wide range of characters, Im has become one of the most respected actresses in the Korean entertainment industry. As we look back on her career up to 2025, let’s explore the top 10 Korean dramas and movies that showcase her exceptional acting skills.
1. A Tale of Two Sisters (2003)
Im Soo-jung’s breakthrough role came in this psychological horror film. The movie tells the story of two sisters who return home after spending time in a mental institution. Im plays Bae Su-mi, the older sister, in a haunting and memorable performance. The film’s eerie atmosphere and Im’s portrayal of a troubled young woman helped establish her as a rising star in Korean cinema.
2. I’m Sorry, I Love You (2004)
This popular television drama series marked Im’s transition to stardom. The heartbreaking love story resonated with viewers across Asia. Im’s portrayal of a kind-hearted woman who falls in love with a man with a tragic past showcased her ability to convey deep emotions. The drama’s success helped cement Im’s status as a leading actress in the Korean entertainment industry.
3. I’m a Cyborg, But That’s OK (2006)
In this quirky romantic comedy directed by the renowned Park Chan-wook, Im plays a young woman who believes she is a cyborg. Her charming and offbeat performance demonstrates her range as an actress, effortlessly blending humor with touching moments. The film’s unique story and Im’s endearing portrayal make it a standout in her filmography.
4. Happiness (2007)
This romantic melodrama allowed Im to take on a more mature role. She plays Eun-hee, a woman diagnosed with a terminal illness who forms a deep connection with a man in a similar situation. Im’s nuanced performance captures the complex emotions of her character, from fear and sadness to hope and love. The film showcases her ability to handle serious dramatic roles with sensitivity and depth.
5. Jeon Woo-chi: The Taoist Wizard (2009)
In this fantasy action film, Im plays Seo In-kyung, a government minister’s daughter who becomes involved in magical adventures. The movie blends historical elements with fantasy, allowing Im to showcase her versatility in a more lighthearted role. Her chemistry with the lead actor and her portrayal of a strong-willed character add charm to this entertaining film.
6. All About My Wife (2012)
Im won the Best Actress award at the Blue Dragon Film Awards for her performance in this romantic comedy. She plays Yeon Jung-in, a woman whose husband wants to divorce her but is too afraid to tell her directly. Im’s comedic timing and ability to balance humor with emotional depth shine in this role. The film demonstrates her skill in bringing complex characters to life.
7. Chicago Typewriter (2017)
Returning to television, Im starred in this fantasy romance drama. She plays Jeon Seol, a woman who becomes entangled in a mystery involving the reincarnated spirits of 1930s writers. The drama allowed Im to portray two different characters across different time periods, showcasing her range as an actress. Her chemistry with her co-stars and her ability to convey the complexities of her character made this drama a fan favorite.
8. Search: WWW (2019)
In this modern drama, Im plays Bae Ta-mi, a competent career woman working in the competitive world of web portal companies. Her portrayal of a strong, independent woman navigating professional challenges and personal relationships resonated with viewers. The drama highlights Im’s ability to bring depth and relatability to contemporary characters.
9. Melancholia (2021)
Im takes on the role of a passionate mathematics teacher in this thought-provoking drama. Her character becomes embroiled in a scandal with a student, leading to an exploration of societal prejudices and the nature of relationships. Im’s nuanced performance captures the complexities of her character’s emotions and motivations, further cementing her status as one of Korea’s finest actresses.
10. Fine (2025)
While details about this Disney+ drama are limited, it promises to be another transformative role for Im Soo-jung. As her first project with the streaming platform, expectations are high for Im to deliver another captivating performance. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing how she will bring her character to life in this new production.