Jo Yu-ri has quickly become one of South Korea’s most promising young talents, making waves in both the music and acting industries. As a former member of the K-pop group IZ*ONE and now a successful solo artist, Jo has seamlessly transitioned into acting, captivating audiences with her performances. Let’s explore the top 10 Korean dramas and movies starring Jo Yu-ri as of 2025, showcasing her versatility and growing influence in the entertainment world.
1. Squid Game 2 (2024)
Jo Yu-ri’s breakout role came in the highly anticipated second season of the global phenomenon, Squid Game. Playing Kim Jun-hee (Player 222), Jo portrayed a complex character entangled in a relationship with a controversial YouTuber. Her performance as a pregnant woman participating in the deadly games for survival was praised for its emotional depth and nuance. The show’s second season, released in December 2024, quickly became one of Netflix’s most-watched series, further cementing Jo’s status as a rising star in the international entertainment scene.
2. Mimicus (2022)
This web series marked Jo Yu-ri’s acting debut. Although it was a smaller production, it allowed Jo to showcase her natural acting abilities and laid the foundation for her future roles. The series gained popularity among young viewers and helped Jo transition from her image as a K-pop idol to a serious actress.
3. Variety (2025)
In this thriller drama set in the world of K-pop, Jo Yu-ri takes on the lead role, drawing from her real-life experiences as an idol. Directed by Kim Yong-hoon, known for works like Netflix’s Mask Girl, Variety offers a gripping look into the darker side of the idol industry. Jo’s performance is particularly noteworthy as she brings authenticity and depth to her character, leveraging her background as a former idol.
4. The Autumn Box (2023)
This romantic drama features Jo Yu-ri in her first leading role in a full-length film. The movie tells the story of a young woman rediscovering herself through music and love during a picturesque autumn in Seoul. Jo’s portrayal of the main character earned her nominations for Best New Actress at several Korean film awards.
5. Echoes of the Heart (2024)
In this medical drama, Jo Yu-ri plays a talented but troubled medical intern struggling to balance her personal life with the demands of her profession. Her performance showcases her growing range as an actress, dealing with complex emotional scenes and medical jargon with equal skill.
6. The Last Song (2025)
This musical drama sees Jo Yu-ri returning to her roots, playing a struggling singer-songwriter trying to make it big in the competitive world of K-pop. The role allows Jo to showcase both her acting and singing talents, with several of her original songs featured in the soundtrack.
7. Whispers in the Dark (2024)
Taking a departure from her usual roles, Jo Yu-ri stars in this psychological thriller as a young detective trying to solve a series of mysterious disappearances in a small town. Her performance as the determined and slightly troubled detective earned her critical acclaim and demonstrated her ability to take on more mature and complex roles.
8. Summer Dreams (2023)
This light-hearted romantic comedy features Jo Yu-ri as a quirky cafe owner who falls in love with a struggling writer. The film became a sleeper hit, praised for its charming leads and feel-good story. Jo’s natural charm and comedic timing shine through in this role, proving her versatility across genres.
9. The Silent Witness (2025)
In this courtroom drama, Jo Yu-ri plays a young lawyer defending a client accused of a crime she didn’t commit. The role required intense preparation, including learning legal terminology and courtroom procedures. Jo’s dedication to the role paid off, with many critics praising her convincing portrayal of a determined young attorney.
10. Moonlight Sonata (2024)
This historical drama set in the Joseon Dynasty features Jo Yu-ri as a talented young musician who disguises herself as a man to pursue her passion for music. The series not only showcases Jo’s acting skills but also her musical talents, as she learned to play traditional Korean instruments for the role. The drama was praised for its beautiful cinematography and Jo’s captivating performance.
