Happy birthday, Kim So Yeon! Today, we celebrate the remarkable talent of this underrated South Korean actress, whose versatility has manifested itself in a multitude of memorable roles over the course of her career spanning more than two decades.

From the conniving presenter in All About Eve to the complex character of a music school principal in The Penthouse: War in Life, Kim So Yeon has proven time and time again that she is one of the most capable performers in the ‘industry. Here are seven must-see roles that showcase her impressive range and talent.

1) All about Eve

Kim So Yeon’s breakout role came with the hit drama All About Eve, in which she played the ambitious and manipulative news anchor Heo Young Mi. This character became iconic, showing her ability to embody the complexity of a villain with depth. The drama captured the hearts of viewers, reaching a peak audience rating of 45.2% and cemented Kim So Yeon’s status as a formidable actress in the industry.

The intense rivalry between her character and the protagonist played by Chae Rim not only demonstrated her acting skills but also made her a household name. Young Mi’s cold heart and fierce determination set a precedent for many of Kim So Yeon’s future roles, proving that she could carry a narrative filled with suspense and intrigue.

2) Iris

After a brief break from the spotlight, Kim So Yeon made a splashy return with the action-packed series Iris. In this high-stakes drama, she plays a North Korean spy named Joon Hae Rin. Kim So Yeon’s transformation for the role, which included cutting her long hair and training for intense action scenes, was impressive and showed her dedication to the craft.

The character was both tough and vulnerable, involved in a love triangle that added layers to his storyline. This role not only revitalized his career, but also earned him a new fan base, proving his ability to transition from melodrama to action with grace.

3) Princess Attorney

Kim So Yeon’s ability to change gender is on full display in Attorney Princess, where she plays the role of Ma Hye Ri, a new fashion-conscious prosecutor. This character is charmingly naive and, initially, more interested in her appearance than her legal career, but as the story unfolds, she surprises everyone with her intelligence and keen sense of justice.

Kim So Yeon infused the role with humor and warmth, allowing audiences to connect with her as she overcame personal and professional challenges. The series’ light-hearted tone stood in stark contrast to his previous roles, illustrating his versatility and ability to tackle different character types effectively.

4) Secret mother

In Secret Mother, Kim So Yeon plays the enigmatic character Lee Seon Jae, a woman who becomes a nanny for a single mother while hiding her dark past. The plot’s psychological tension and intrigue allowed him to explore the depths of his character’s psyche, balancing warmth with a chilling sense of mystery.

This drama was well received and showcased Kim So Yeon’s ability to draw viewers into a complex narrative, keeping them guessing at her character’s true motivations. The performance was another highlight of her range, as she moved effortlessly from motherly warmth to unsettling intensity, demonstrating her acting talent.

5) The Penthouse: the war in life

One of Kim So Yeon’s most notable recent roles is that of Cheon Seo Jin in The Penthouse: War in Life, a character that echoes the cunning nature of her role in All About Eve. As a music school principal and a ruthless soprano, Kim So Yeon’s performance was both captivating and frightening.

The drama was a sensational success, captivating audiences with its extravagant storylines and intense rivalries, and Kim So Yeon’s portrayal of Seo Jin stood out, earning her numerous awards, including the Grand Prix (Daesang) at SBS Drama 2021. Awards. His ability to play a villainous character that viewers loved to hate was one of the show’s strengths, demonstrating his talent for balancing complex emotions.

6) The Tale of the Nine Tails 1938

In this fantasy drama, Kim So Yeon stars alongside Lee Dong Wook, marking her return to the genre with a character blending traditional folklore and modern sensibilities. His performance in Tale of the Nine-Tailed 1938 shows his ability to navigate the complexities of fantasy storytelling while delivering a performance that feels grounded and relevant.

The series, which explores themes of love, loyalty and sacrifice, allowed Kim So Yeon to delve into a character that carries significant emotional weight, showing her potential as an actress. Her chemistry with her co-stars and her commitment to this role highlight her continued evolution in the industry.

7) A virtuous company

A virtuous company offers a new opportunity for Kim So Yeon to explore new grounds in her career. As a housewife who sells adult products, the role is intriguing and a break from her previously established characters.

This ongoing drama marks a new chapter for Kim So Yeon, who has always chosen roles that challenge society’s norms and expectations. By taking on this unique character, she demonstrates her desire to tackle daring stories that resonate with contemporary audiences.

As Kim So Yeon celebrates her birthday today, it’s clear that her contributions to the South Korean entertainment industry are both diverse and impactful. Her roles not only entertained audiences but also paved the way for discussions about the complexities of women in dramatic and comedic contexts. Happy birthday, Kim So Yeon, and many more unforgettable roles await us!

ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Kim So Yeon Talks Role in 1938’s Tale of the Nine Tailed, Chemistry with Lee Dong Wook and More