Trigger Warning: This article contains mention of death.
South Korean actress Kim Sae Ron has passed away at the young age of 24. The news of her demise on February 16, 2025, has brought immense grief to her fans and the entertainment industry. Starting her acting journey in 2009, Kim Sae Ron last graced the screen in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances. As a tribute to her talent, we revisit some of her remarkable K-dramas.
Bloodhounds (2023)
Bloodhounds, a Netflix action-thriller series, revolves around three young individuals venturing into the world of money lending to overcome their debts. Kim Sae Ron portrayed Cha Hyeon Ju in this drama, sharing screen space with Woo Do Hwan and Lee Sang Yi. Unfortunately, due to a DUI controversy in 2022, a significant portion of her scenes were edited out from the final cut. Despite this, her presence in Bloodhounds remains a part of her final on-screen appearances.
Hi! School-Love On (2014)
In the fantasy romance drama Hi! School-Love On, Kim Sae Ron took on the lead role of an angel who transforms into a human. This transformation occurs after she saves a human boy from a fatal accident. The drama explores the connection between the angel-turned-human and the boy she saved, as their souls become intertwined. However, their budding romance faces obstacles due to a third person’s interference. This series allowed Kim Sae Ron to showcase her versatility in a fantasy setting, appealing to a younger audience with its romantic storyline.
The Great Shaman Go Dooshim (2021)
Another venture into the fantasy romance genre for Kim Sae Ron was The Great Shaman Go Dooshim. Here, she played the titular character Ga Doo Shim, a teenager with the unique ability to see spirits. The series blended elements of teenage drama with the supernatural, highlighting Ga Doo Shim’s interactions with ghosts and her relationships with classmates, including her boyfriend played by Nam Da Reum. Her portrayal of Ga Doo Shim was noted for its fun and engaging nature, contributing to the show’s appeal.
Love Playlist (2017)
Kim Sae Ron made a special appearance in season four of the popular web drama Love Playlist. She played the character Seo Ji Min in this season, joining the ensemble cast that depicts the lives of college students. Love Playlist is known for its relatable portrayal of friendships, relationships, and breakups among young adults. Kim Sae Ron’s addition to the cast was a welcome surprise for fans of the series, adding a fresh dynamic to the ongoing storylines.
Mirror of the Witch (2016)
Also known as Secret Healer, the historical JTBC drama Mirror of the Witch featured Kim Sae Ron as Princess Yeon Hee. Her character is introduced as the ill-fated twin of Soon Hwae, born after the queen’s conception through black magic. Yeon Hee is initially destined to be a sacrifice, but a Taoist named Hyun Seo intervenes, saving her and raising her in secrecy. This role allowed Kim Sae Ron to delve into a historical and mystical narrative, showcasing her ability to handle complex characters within a period drama.
The Queen’s Classroom (2013)
The Queen’s Classroom explores the tense dynamics between a strict teacher and her elementary school students throughout a single academic year. Kim Sae Ron played one of the students, known for her bold resistance against the authoritarian teacher. The drama also highlighted the unexpected friendships that develop among the students amidst the challenging classroom environment. Her role in The Queen’s Classroom displayed her capacity to portray youthful defiance and camaraderie, contributing to the drama’s engaging storyline.
Leverage (2019)
In Leverage, Kim Sae Ron transformed into Go Na Byeol, a character with a compelling backstory. Once a national fencing athlete, Go Na Byeol transitions into becoming a top-tier thief. Despite being a former top student, she is also characterized by a fiery temper. Kim Sae Ron’s portrayal of Go Na Byeol emphasized the character’s striking and multifaceted personality, making her a memorable figure in the drama.
The news of Kim Sae Ron’s passing was confirmed after she was found at her Seoul residence. While police reports indicate her demise was discovered by a friend who alerted authorities, further details surrounding her death have not been extensively disclosed. Her contribution to the Korean entertainment industry through these dramas and more will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
Saikat Nandy is an entertainment news writer who covers the latest trends and stories from the world of showbiz, has a keen eye for spotting the most interesting and relevant topics, and delivers them to his audience with flair and humor. He is also a freelance blogger, content writer, and website designer who loves to explore new technologies and creative ideas.
