Before becoming one of the most recognizable faces in Korean entertainment, Im Yoon Ah, known mononymously as YoonA, first captured hearts as a member of Girls’ Generation, one of the nation’s most iconic K-pop groups. With her natural charm, stage presence, and elegant visuals, she quickly became a household name in both music and variety shows.
But YoonA’s ambitions didn’t stop with singing. Determined to grow as an artist, she transitioned into acting, taking on roles that tested her range and solidified her as a credible actress. From heartwarming daily dramas to intense thrillers, her filmography shows her ability to adapt to any genre or character.
Here’s a look at some of her most memorable K-dramas that highlight her impressive versatility on screen.
'You Are My Destiny' (2008–2009)
YoonA’s first major role as Jang Sae Byuk catapulted her into stardom. The story follows a cheerful orphan who undergoes a corneal transplant and becomes entangled with a wealthy family. The long-running daily drama was a massive success, peaking at over 40% viewership, and YoonA earned multiple accolades, including Best New Actress for TV at the 45th Baeksang Arts Awards.
'Cinderella Man' (2009)
In this romantic drama, she played Seo Yoo Jin, a proud and ambitious fashion design graduate from Paris who must rebuild her life after her father’s sudden passing. Her character finds herself caught between two men who look alike but live in completely different worlds. YoonA’s sincerity and emotional delivery stood out amidst the melodramatic twists.
'Love Rain' (2012)
This melodrama challenged YoonA with a dual role: the shy and tender Kim Yoon Hee in the 1970s, and her bright, spirited daughter Jung Ha Na in modern times. As Yoon Hee, she portrayed the quiet innocence of first love, while as Ha Na, she brought energy and warmth to a new-generation romance. The series became a global hit, praised for her ability to embody two contrasting characters across eras.
'Prime Minister & I' (2013–2014)
YoonA took on rom-com territory as Nam Da Jung, a clumsy yet warmhearted tabloid reporter who once dreamed of becoming a novelist but now works tirelessly to support her ailing father. Chasing political scoops, she becomes entangled with the nation’s youngest Prime Minister, leading to an unexpected contract marriage filled with heartfelt and comedic moments.
'The K2' (2016)
In this high-stakes political thriller, YoonA transformed into Go Anna, the illegitimate daughter of a presidential candidate, hidden away to protect his career. Raised in isolation under the cruelty of her stepmother, Anna carried deep-seated trauma, social phobia, and panic attacks tied to her mother’s tragic death. Her fragile yet powerful portrayal was one of the drama’s highlights.
'The King in Love' (2017)
Set in the Goryeo dynasty, YoonA portrayed Eun San, the strong-willed daughter of a nobleman who conceals her identity to survive in a world of palace intrigue. Marked by grace, resilience, and inner conflict, Eun San becomes caught in a tragic love triangle that tests her loyalty and her heart.
'Hush' (2020–2021)
Marking her return to television after several years, she took on the role of Lee Ji Soo, a passionate intern reporter. This workplace drama highlighted the realities of journalism, giving YoonA the chance to portray a grounded and relatable character striving to find her voice in a harsh industry.
'Big Mouth' (2022)
As Go Mi Ho, the steadfast nurse and wife of a lawyer entangled in a massive conspiracy, YoonA anchored the drama with quiet strength. Bold, compassionate, and unyielding even in the face of her own illness, she became the emotional core of the story.
'King the Land' (2023)
As Cheon Sa Rang, a cheerful and hardworking hotelier known as the “smile queen,” YoonA brought warmth and charm to the rom-com. Her character’s optimism collides with the cold heir of a hotel empire, sparking conflict and romance. The drama became one of the biggest hits of the year, and her radiant performance earned her the Popularity Award at the 2023 APAN Star Awards.
'Bon Appétit, Your Majesty' (2025)
In her latest project, YoonA takes on the role of Yeon Ji Yeong, a South Korean chef specializing in French cuisine with a positive yet assertive personality. On the day she wins the nation’s biggest culinary competition, she is suddenly transported back in time to the Joseon dynasty during a solar eclipse. Impressing King Yi Heon with her modern cooking skills.
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