Jo Bo-ah has become one of South Korea’s most beloved actresses, captivating audiences with her versatile performances across various genres. As we look back on her career up to 2025, let’s explore the top 10 Korean dramas and movies that showcase Jo Bo-ah’s incredible talent and charm.
1. Knock Off (2025)
Jo Bo-ah’s latest drama, “Knock Off,” is a thrilling black comedy set against the backdrop of the 1997 Asian financial crisis. In this series, Jo plays Song Hye-jeong, a special judicial police officer tasked with cracking down on counterfeit goods. Her character faces a complex situation when she discovers her ex-lover, Kim Seong-jun (played by Kim Soo-hyun), has become deeply involved in the world of fake luxury items.
The drama offers a unique blend of romance, comedy, and suspense as it explores the underground market of counterfeit goods. Jo Bo-ah’s portrayal of a determined law enforcer adds depth to the story, showcasing her ability to balance tough and tender moments on screen.
2. Destined with You (2023)
In this romantic fantasy drama, Jo Bo-ah stars as Lee Hong-jo, a civil servant whose life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters a mysterious cursed lawyer. The story revolves around an ancient spell book that only Hong-jo can open, which holds the key to breaking the lawyer’s family curse.
Jo’s performance as the kind-hearted Hong-jo brings warmth and humor to the screen. Her chemistry with co-star Rowoon creates a captivating love story that keeps viewers hooked. The drama’s blend of romance, fantasy, and comedy allows Jo to showcase her range as an actress, from comedic timing to heartfelt emotional scenes.
3. Military Prosecutor Doberman (2022)
This action-packed legal drama features Jo Bo-ah as Cha Woo-in, a military prosecutor with a hidden agenda. Despite coming from a wealthy background, Woo-in joins the military legal system seeking revenge. Jo’s portrayal of this complex character earned her critical acclaim and further cemented her status as a versatile actress.
The drama combines intense courtroom battles with thrilling action sequences, allowing Jo to display both her intellectual and physical prowess on screen. Her chemistry with co-star Ahn Bo-hyun adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already gripping storyline.
4. Tale of the Nine Tailed (2020)
In this fantasy romance drama, Jo Bo-ah takes on the role of Nam Ji-ah, a fearless television producer investigating supernatural occurrences. Her path crosses with Lee Yeon (Lee Dong-wook), a mythical nine-tailed fox living in the human world. As the story unfolds, Ji-ah discovers her connection to Lee Yeon’s past love, adding depth and complexity to her character.
Jo’s performance in this drama showcases her ability to portray a strong, independent woman while also conveying vulnerability and romance. The series’ blend of Korean folklore, suspense, and romance provides a perfect backdrop for Jo’s talents to shine.
5. Forest (2020)
“Forest” presents a unique romance set in a mysterious forest. Jo Bo-ah plays Jung Young-jae, a surgeon who finds herself drawn to the forest for reasons she can’t explain. As she uncovers the secrets of the forest alongside her co-star Kang San-hyeok (Park Hae-jin), Young-jae also begins to heal her own emotional wounds.
This drama allows Jo to explore a more introspective and healing role. Her portrayal of Young-jae’s journey from a cold, career-focused doctor to a warmer, more empathetic person demonstrates her skill in character development.
6. My Strange Hero (2018)
In this heartwarming romantic comedy, Jo Bo-ah takes on the role of Son Soo-jung, a high school teacher who reunites with her former love interest, Kang Bok-soo (Yoo Seung-ho). The drama explores themes of redemption, justice, and second chances in love, set against the backdrop of a corrupt high school system.
Jo’s portrayal of Soo-jung balances humor with emotional depth, as her character grapples with past misunderstandings and present-day challenges. Her chemistry with Yoo Seung-ho creates a sweet and engaging romance that forms the heart of the story.
7. Temperature of Love (2017)
This romantic drama sees Jo Bo-ah in a supporting role as Ji Hong-ah, adding complexity to the main love story. While not the lead, Jo’s performance as the determined and sometimes misguided Hong-ah leaves a lasting impression on viewers.
The drama explores the ups and downs of relationships in the competitive worlds of television production and culinary arts. Jo’s character adds tension and depth to the storyline, showcasing her ability to create a memorable impact even in a supporting role.
8. Sweet Stranger and Me (2016)
In this quirky romantic comedy, Jo Bo-ah plays Do Yeo-joo, a flight attendant who becomes entangled in the life of her co-worker, Hong Na-ri (Soo Ae). The drama takes an unexpected turn when Na-ri discovers that her deceased mother’s husband is younger than her and claims to have been her stepfather.
Jo’s portrayal of the bubbly and sometimes mischievous Yeo-joo provides comic relief and adds an extra layer of charm to the series. Her performance demonstrates her knack for light-hearted roles and her ability to shine even in an ensemble cast.
9. The Idle Mermaid (2014)
This early work in Jo Bo-ah’s career showcases her versatility as an actress. In this modern retelling of “The Little Mermaid,” Jo plays Kim Ha-ni, a mermaid who decides to become human to pursue her love for a chef she once saved from drowning.
Despite being one of her earlier roles, Jo’s performance as the naive and love-struck mermaid is both endearing and entertaining. The drama’s unique premise allows Jo to explore a range of emotions, from wonder and excitement to heartbreak and determination.
10. Innocent Thing (2014 Film)
While Jo Bo-ah is primarily known for her television work, her film debut in “Innocent Thing” deserves mention. In this psychological thriller, Jo plays Young-eun, a high school student who becomes dangerously obsessed with her married teacher.
This role marked a significant departure from Jo’s usual characters, allowing her to showcase a darker, more intense side of her acting abilities. Her portrayal of a troubled and manipulative teenager demonstrated her potential for tackling complex and morally ambiguous roles.
