Kim Sun-ah is a beloved South Korean actress known for her versatile performances and charismatic screen presence. With a career spanning over two decades, she has starred in numerous critically acclaimed dramas and movies. As of 2025, let’s take a look at the top 10 Korean dramas and movies featuring Kim Sun-ah that have captivated audiences worldwide.
1. My Lovely Sam Soon (2005)
This romantic comedy drama is the one that catapulted Kim Sun-ah to stardom. In “My Lovely Sam Soon,” she plays the role of Kim Sam-soon, a talented pastry chef in her 30s who struggles with love and career. The drama was a massive hit and remains a classic in Korean television history.
Kim Sun-ah’s portrayal of Sam-soon was both relatable and endearing. Her character was strong-willed, funny, and not afraid to speak her mind. The chemistry between Kim Sun-ah and her co-star Hyun Bin was electric, making this drama a must-watch for any fan of romantic comedies.
The drama tackles themes of self-love, career aspirations, and family relationships. It’s a heartwarming story that will make you laugh, cry, and fall in love with Kim Sun-ah’s character.
2. Scent of a Woman (2011)
In this touching drama, Kim Sun-ah plays Lee Yeon-jae, a woman who decides to live life to the fullest after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. “Scent of a Woman” is a beautiful story about finding joy and love in the face of adversity.
Kim Sun-ah’s performance in this drama is truly remarkable. She perfectly captures the emotional journey of her character, from the initial shock and despair to the determination to make the most of her remaining time. The drama beautifully balances moments of humor with deep, emotional scenes.
One of the highlights of the drama is the tango scenes. Kim Sun-ah learned to dance for this role, and her passion for tango becomes a metaphor for her character’s newfound zest for life.
3. The Empire (2022)
In this gripping legal drama, Kim Sun-ah takes on the role of Han Hye-ryul, a powerful and ambitious woman in the legal world. “The Empire” is a story of power, corruption, and the dark side of success.
Kim Sun-ah’s portrayal of Han Hye-ryul is intense and captivating. Her character is complex, showing both ruthless ambition and moments of vulnerability. The drama offers a thrilling look into the high-stakes world of law and politics in Korea.
With its intricate plot and strong performances, “The Empire” showcases Kim Sun-ah’s ability to take on challenging, multifaceted roles.
4. Woman of Dignity (2017)
This JTBC drama features Kim Sun-ah in a role that’s quite different from her usual characters. She plays Park Bok-ja, a woman from a poor background who aims to climb the social ladder by any means necessary.
Kim Sun-ah’s performance as the mysterious and somewhat sinister Park Bok-ja is truly captivating. She switches effortlessly between a warm, caring persona in public and a cold, calculating one in private. This duality makes her character both fascinating and unpredictable.
“Woman of Dignity” is a gripping drama that explores themes of class, ambition, and the price of success. Kim Sun-ah’s nuanced performance adds depth to these complex themes.
5. City Hall (2009)
In this romantic comedy drama, Kim Sun-ah plays Shin Mi-rae, a low-level city hall employee who unexpectedly becomes the mayor of her small town. “City Hall” is a delightful mix of romance, comedy, and political drama.
Kim Sun-ah shines as the lovable and determined Mi-rae. Her character’s journey from a timid civil servant to a confident leader is both inspiring and entertaining. The drama also features a charming romance between Mi-rae and her love interest, played by Cha Seung-won.
“City Hall” is known for its witty dialogue and heartwarming story. It’s a feel-good drama that showcases Kim Sun-ah’s talent for both comedy and romance.
6. She’s on Duty (2005)
This action-comedy film features Kim Sun-ah as Chun Jae-in, a detective who goes undercover as a high school student. “She’s on Duty” is a fun and exciting movie that allows Kim Sun-ah to show off her comedic skills.
Kim Sun-ah’s portrayal of a 27-year-old woman pretending to be a teenager is hilarious and endearing. Her character’s struggles to fit in with actual high school students lead to many funny situations. At the same time, the movie has elements of action and romance that keep the plot exciting.
“She’s on Duty” is a lighthearted and entertaining film that demonstrates Kim Sun-ah’s versatility as an actress.
7. Children of Nobody (2018)
In this psychological thriller drama, Kim Sun-ah plays Cha Woo-kyung, a child counselor who becomes involved in a series of mysterious child abuse cases. “Children of Nobody” is a dark and intense drama that deals with serious themes.
Kim Sun-ah’s performance in this drama is powerful and moving. Her character goes through a lot of emotional turmoil, and Kim Sun-ah portrays this inner struggle with great skill. The drama tackles difficult subjects, but Kim Sun-ah’s nuanced acting helps to convey these themes sensitively.
“Children of Nobody” showcases Kim Sun-ah’s ability to take on more serious and dramatic roles. It’s a thought-provoking drama that leaves a lasting impression.
8. The Five (2013)
This thriller movie stars Kim Sun-ah as Go Eun-ah, a woman seeking revenge for the murder of her family. “The Five” is a gripping and intense film that allows Kim Sun-ah to show her range as an actress.
In this movie, Kim Sun-ah takes on a much darker role than her usual romantic comedy characters. Her portrayal of a woman consumed by the desire for vengeance is powerful and haunting. The movie is full of suspense and action, with Kim Sun-ah performing many of her own stunts.
“The Five” is a departure from Kim Sun-ah’s typical roles, demonstrating her ability to excel in the thriller genre.
9. I Do, I Do (2012)
In this romantic comedy drama, Kim Sun-ah plays Hwang Ji-an, a successful shoe designer in her late 30s who unexpectedly becomes pregnant after a one-night stand. “I Do, I Do” is a sweet and funny drama about love, career, and motherhood.
Kim Sun-ah’s portrayal of Ji-an is both funny and touching. Her character starts as a career-focused woman who never thought about having a family, but gradually learns to balance her work with her unexpected pregnancy. The drama tackles issues of single motherhood and workplace discrimination with humor and heart.
“I Do, I Do” is a charming drama that showcases Kim Sun-ah’s talent for romantic comedies while also addressing more serious themes.
10. Queen of Masks (2023)
In this recent drama, Kim Sun-ah plays Do Jae-yi, a woman who becomes involved in a complex web of revenge and justice. “Queen of Masks” is a thrilling drama that combines elements of mystery, romance, and social commentary.
Kim Sun-ah’s performance as Do Jae-yi is captivating. Her character is mysterious and multi-layered, with a past that slowly unravels throughout the drama. Kim Sun-ah brings depth and intensity to the role, keeping viewers guessing about her true motives until the very end.
“Queen of Masks” is a testament to Kim Sun-ah’s continued growth as an actress, showcasing her ability to take on complex, morally ambiguous characters.
