Kim Ji Won has become one of the most celebrated actresses in the K-drama industry, known for her versatility, emotional depth, and ability to bring complex characters to life. From romantic comedies to intense melodramas, her performances have left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. If you haven’t explored her work yet, here are 11 must-watch K-dramas starring Kim Ji Won that showcase her incredible range. Each entry includes genre, release year, IMDb rating, director, cast, awards, a detailed plot summary, and an honest review.
11. The Heirs (2013)
Genre: Romance, Drama, School
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2013
IMDb Rating: 7.5
Director: Kang Shin-hyo
Cast: Lee Min-ho, Park Shin-hye, Kim Woo-bin, Kim Ji Won
Awards: Nominated for Best New Actress (Kim Ji Won) at SBS Drama Awards
Plot Summary:
The Heirs follows a group of wealthy high school students as they navigate love, friendship, and family pressures. Kim Ji Won plays Yoo Rachel, a privileged heiress with a sharp personality. She is engaged to Kim Tan (Lee Min-ho), but their relationship is complicated when he falls for a poor girl, Cha Eun-sang (Park Shin-hye). Rachel struggles with jealousy and family expectations, making her one of the most memorable antagonists in K-drama history. The series explores class differences and young love in a competitive elite school.
Review:
Kim Ji Won steals scenes as the fierce Yoo Rachel, proving early in her career that she can hold her own against top stars. A must-watch for classic K-drama fans.
10. Gap-dong (2014)
Genre: Crime, Thriller, Drama
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2014
IMDb Rating: 7.9
Director: Jo Soo-won
Cast: Yoon Sang-hyun, Kim Ji Won, Lee Joon
Awards: None
Plot Summary:
Based on real-life serial murders, Gap-dong follows a detective’s hunt for a notorious killer. Kim Ji Won plays Ma Ji-wool, a high school student who unknowingly predicts the killer’s next moves through her webcomic. As the investigation deepens, Ji-wool becomes a key figure in the case, putting her in danger. The drama blends psychological tension with a gripping cat-and-mouse chase.
Review:
A dark, intense thriller where Kim Ji Won shines in an unconventional role. Her performance adds depth to this chilling crime drama.
9. Descendants of the Sun (2016)
Genre: Romance, Action, Military
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2016
IMDb Rating: 8.2
Director: Lee Eung-bok
Cast: Song Joong-ki, Song Hye-kyo, Kim Ji Won, Jin Goo
Awards: Excellence Award at KBS Drama Awards (Kim Ji Won)
Plot Summary:
A love story between a soldier (Song Joong-ki) and a doctor (Song Hye-kyo) set against dangerous missions. Kim Ji Won plays Yoon Myeong-ju, an army doctor who falls for a special forces captain (Jin Goo). Their relationship faces challenges due to military life and personal sacrifices. The drama mixes action, romance, and emotional moments, becoming a global phenomenon.
Review:
Kim Ji Won’s chemistry with Jin Goo is electric, making their love story just as compelling as the main leads. A classic K-drama with unforgettable moments.
8. Fight for My Way (2017)
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Slice-of-Life
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2017
IMDb Rating: 8.1
Director: Lee Na-jung
Cast: Park Seo-joon, Kim Ji Won, Ahn Jae-hong
Awards: Top Excellence Award at KBS Drama Awards (Kim Ji Won)
Plot Summary:
Four friends chase their dreams despite societal pressures. Kim Ji Won plays Choi Ae-ra, a department store employee who dreams of becoming a news anchor. Her childhood friend Ko Dong-man (Park Seo-joon) pursues a career in MMA. The series balances humor, romance, and the struggles of young adulthood.
Review:
Kim Ji Won’s comedic timing and chemistry with Park Seo-joon make this a feel-good, inspiring drama. One of her best roles.
7. Arthdal Chronicles (2019)
Genre: Fantasy, Historical, Adventure
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2019
IMDb Rating: 8.3
Director: Kim Won-seok
Cast: Jang Dong-gun, Kim Ji Won, Song Joong-ki
Awards: None
Plot Summary:
Set in the mythical land of Arth, this epic fantasy follows power struggles between tribes. Kim Ji Won plays Tan-ya, a warrior destined to bring change. Her journey from innocence to leadership is gripping. The series blends political intrigue with ancient mythology.
Review:
Kim Ji Won excels in her first fantasy role, proving she can dominate any genre. A visually stunning, ambitious drama.
6. Lovestruck in the City (2020-2021)
Genre: Romance, Drama, Mockumentary
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2020
IMDb Rating: 7.6
Director: Park Shin-woo
Cast: Ji Chang-wook, Kim Ji Won
Awards: None
Plot Summary:
A realistic take on modern relationships, told through interviews. Kim Ji Won plays Lee Eun-oh, a woman who hides her true self under a fake identity. Her summer romance with architect Park Jae-won (Ji Chang-wook) turns complicated when she disappears. The drama explores love, identity, and emotional baggage.
Review:
Kim Ji Won delivers a nuanced performance in this unconventional romance. A fresh, relatable take on love.
5. My Liberation Notes (2022)
Genre: Slice-of-Life, Drama
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2022
IMDb Rating: 8.2
Director: Kim Seok-yoon
Cast: Kim Ji Won, Lee Min-ki, Son Suk-ku
Awards: Nominated for Best Actress at Baeksang Arts Awards
Plot Summary:
Three siblings stuck in mundane lives seek change. Kim Ji Won plays Yeom Mi-jung, an introverted office worker who forms a bond with a mysterious stranger (Son Suk-ku). The drama explores loneliness, self-discovery, and quiet rebellions.
Review:
A slow-burn masterpiece where Kim Ji Won’s subtle acting speaks volumes. Deeply moving and thought-provoking.
4. Queen of Tears (2024)
Genre: Romance, Melodrama
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2024
IMDb Rating: 8.3
Director: Jang Young-woo
Cast: Kim Soo-hyun, Kim Ji Won
Awards: Pending
Plot Summary:
A chaebol heiress (Kim Ji Won) and her husband (Kim Soo-hyun) face marital struggles and corporate battles. Their love is tested by family secrets and personal crises. The drama blends romance, suspense, and emotional depth.
Review:
Kim Ji Won’s portrayal of a strong yet vulnerable woman is phenomenal. A must-watch for fans of intense romance.
3. Mr. Sunshine (2018)
Genre: Historical, Romance, Action
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2018
IMDb Rating: 8.7
Director: Lee Eung-bok
Cast: Lee Byung-hun, Kim Tae-ri, Kim Ji Won (cameo)
Awards: None
Plot Summary:
Set in early 1900s Korea, a Korean-born U.S. soldier returns to his homeland. Kim Ji Won appears in a brief but powerful cameo as the mother of the female lead. Her tragic backstory sets the tone for the series.
Review:
Though short, Kim Ji Won’s performance is unforgettable. A historical epic with breathtaking storytelling.
2. Hidden Identity (2015)
Genre: Crime, Thriller
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2015
IMDb Rating: 7.6
Director: Kim Jung-min
Cast: Kim Tae-hoon, Kim Ji Won
Awards: None
Plot Summary:
An undercover cop (Kim Tae-hoon) seeks revenge for his sister’s death. Kim Ji Won plays Min Tae-hee, a victim tied to the case. The drama is packed with action and suspense.
Review:
A gritty, underrated thriller where Kim Ji Won leaves a strong impression despite limited screen time.
1. Doctor X: Age of the White Mafia (2026)
Genre: Medical, Thriller
Country: South Korea
Release Year: 2026
IMDb Rating: N/A
Director: TBA
Cast: Kim Ji Won
Awards: Pending
Plot Summary:
Details under wraps, but Kim Ji Won plays a doctor entangled in a medical conspiracy.
Review:
Highly anticipated—Kim Ji Won’s return to medical dramas after Descendants of the Sun.
