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Best Korean Actresses Who Shined in 2025
Korean entertainment has once again proven its global influence in 2025. From emotional K-dramas to gripping thrillers, this year’s actresses captivated audiences worldwide with their performances, versatility, and charm. These women not only dominated screens but also set new standards for acting excellence.
Here’s the ultimate list of the Top 10 Korean Actresses Who Shined in 2025, celebrating both established legends and rising stars who defined this year in K-drama and cinema.
1. Park Bo-young
Why she stood out in 2025:
Park Bo-young owned the spotlight this year with her emotional and layered performances in Our Unwritten Seoul and Melo Movie. She portrayed complex characters balancing love, pain, and self-discovery — earning her the Best Actress Award at the 2025 Korea Drama Awards.
Iconic past roles:
Park Bo-young is beloved for her heartwarming performances in Strong Woman Do Bong Soon and On Your Wedding Day, where she displayed her signature blend of strength, innocence, and emotional honesty.
Takeaway: 2025 reminded everyone why Park Bo-young remains one of the most trusted actresses in Korea — a name synonymous with depth and authenticity.
What to watch: Our Unwritten Seoul (tvN / Netflix).
2. Cho Yi-hyun
Why she stood out in 2025:
Cho Yi-hyun delivered a career-defining performance in Head Over Heels, a fantasy-romance series about a young shaman navigating modern Seoul. Her charisma, comic timing, and emotional sincerity made her a favorite among both critics and younger audiences.
Iconic past roles:
She first gained fame in All of Us Are Dead, where her raw performance in a zombie apocalypse drama captured global attention.
Takeaway: Cho Yi-hyun has officially moved from rising star to leading lady status — confident, expressive, and full of promise.
What to watch: Head Over Heels.
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3. Kim Ji-won
Why she stood out in 2025:
Following her massive hit Queen of Tears, Kim Ji-won continues to evolve with her new role in Doctor X: The Era of the White Mafia. Playing a genius yet morally conflicted surgeon, she delivered an intense and layered performance that’s already generating award buzz.
Iconic past roles:
Kim Ji-won’s acting range has always impressed — from her lovable character in Fight for My Way to her regal yet broken figure in Queen of Tears.
Takeaway: Her ability to embody both strength and vulnerability cements her as one of Korea’s finest actresses.
What to watch: Doctor X: The Era of the White Mafia.
4. Song Hye-kyo
Why she stood out in 2025:
Song Hye-kyo took a bold step away from her usual romantic roles with the psychological thriller Dark Nuns, showcasing her as a tormented exorcist facing her inner demons. The performance was hauntingly beautiful and earned her multiple award nominations.
Iconic past roles:
From Descendants of the Sun to The Glory, Song Hye-kyo has spent decades redefining elegance and emotional intensity on screen.
Takeaway: Even after more than two decades in the industry, Song Hye-kyo continues to reinvent herself and dominate the screen.
What to watch: Dark Nuns.
5. Kim Go-eun
Why she stood out in 2025:
Kim Go-eun followed up the success of Exhuma with another strong year, appearing in critically praised film projects. Her nuanced acting style and emotional realism make her one of the most respected talents of her generation.
Iconic past roles:
Audiences first fell in love with her in Goblin (2016), and she continued to impress with Little Women and Yumi’s Cells.
Takeaway: Kim Go-eun’s consistency and commitment to complex roles show why she’s a benchmark for quality acting.
What to watch: Exhuma, Little Women.
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6. Lim Ji-yeon
Why she stood out in 2025:
After her breakout villainous role in The Glory, Lim Ji-yeon took on a more nuanced part in The Tale of Lady Ok, balancing historical depth and emotional grace. Her portrayal of a conflicted noblewoman has been widely praised.
Iconic past roles:
Her stunning transformation in The Glory as Park Yeon-jin proved she could command both empathy and fear with equal skill.
Takeaway: Lim Ji-yeon’s sharp rise continues — she’s now a powerhouse performer who can lead any project with confidence.
What to watch: The Tale of Lady Ok.
7. Lee Hye-young
Why she stood out in 2025:
The veteran actress delivered a powerhouse performance in The Old Woman with the Knife, portraying a retired assassin forced to confront her violent past. Her intense screen presence reminded audiences why she’s considered one of Korea’s greats.
Iconic past roles:
Known for Lawless Lawyer and No, Thank You, Lee Hye-young’s ability to balance class, danger, and vulnerability remains unmatched.
Takeaway: 2025 was proof that Lee Hye-young’s artistry continues to evolve, inspiring younger generations.
What to watch: The Old Woman with the Knife.
8. Chae Soo-bin
Why she stood out in 2025:
Chae Soo-bin captivated audiences with her sweet yet emotional role in When the Phone Rings. Her performance showcased maturity and vulnerability, earning her widespread popularity both in Korea and abroad.
Iconic past roles:
From I’m Not a Robot to A Piece of Your Mind, she’s known for portraying heartfelt, relatable women.
Takeaway: Chae Soo-bin continues to build her reputation as one of Korea’s most lovable and reliable actresses.
What to watch: When the Phone Rings.
9. Hyeri (Lee Hye-ri)
Why she stood out in 2025:
Hyeri impressed audiences with her lead role in Friendly Rivalry, a slice-of-life drama filled with humor and warmth. She proved she could balance emotional sincerity with lighthearted storytelling.
Iconic past roles:
Her legendary performance in Reply 1988 remains one of the most memorable K-drama portrayals of all time.
Takeaway: From idol to serious actress, Hyeri’s growth has been a joy to witness — she’s now a confident performer with emotional depth.
What to watch: Friendly Rivalry.
10. IU (Lee Ji-eun)
Why she stood out in 2025:
IU once again mesmerized fans with When Life Gives You Tangerines, where she played a struggling artist rediscovering hope. Her delicate performance left viewers emotional and inspired.
Iconic past roles:
IU has showcased her acting brilliance in Hotel Del Luna, My Mister, and Broker — proving she’s as powerful an actress as she is a singer.
Takeaway: IU remains the epitome of versatility — blending artistry, music, and emotion into every performance.
What to watch: When Life Gives You Tangerines.
Final Thoughts
The year 2025 has proven that Korean actresses continue to lead global entertainment through passion and diversity. From Park Bo-young’s emotional power to Cho Yi-hyun’s fresh charm and Song Hye-kyo’s reinvention, every actress brought something unique to the screen.
Korean storytelling has become richer and more daring — blending fantasy, history, romance, and social commentary. These ten actresses didn’t just act; they shaped the cultural conversation of 2025, inspiring fans around the world.
As we look forward to 2026, audiences can expect even more groundbreaking performances and global recognition for these talented women.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is the most popular Korean actress in 2025?
Park Bo-young and Kim Ji-won are among the most popular actresses of 2025, both leading major hit dramas and earning critical acclaim. - Which Korean actress had the biggest breakthrough in 2025?
Cho Yi-hyun’s rise in Head Over Heels marks one of the most impressive career leaps this year. - Who are the top veteran actresses still dominating in 2025?
Song Hye-kyo and Lee Hye-young continue to command respect for their powerful performances and long-standing careers. - Which Korean drama made the most impact in 2025?
Our Unwritten Seoul and Head Over Heels gained massive global followings for their emotional storytelling and brilliant acting. - Who is the most versatile Korean actress in 2025?
Kim Go-eun is widely regarded as one of the most versatile, seamlessly moving between film, fantasy, and emotional drama. - Which Korean actress is expected to shine in 2026?
Kim Ji-won’s upcoming project Doctor X: The Era of the White Mafia is one of the most anticipated dramas of 2026. - Are any idol-actresses included in the top 10?
Yes — Hyeri and IU both transitioned from music to acting, winning hearts with their memorable performances. - Who won the most awards in 2025?
Park Bo-young received the Best Actress Award at the 2025 Korea Drama Awards for Our Unwritten Seoul.
