Top 10 Most Sought-After Kim Ji Won Movies

Arthdal Chronicles (2019) is a fantasy drama set in ancient times, long before the Three Kingdoms period, in the mythical land of Arth. The residents of this land are locked in fierce power struggles while facing numerous challenges, including matters of love. Eun Seom, the protagonist, must endure countless trials to help his people survive and discover his true origins.

The series features a star-studded cast, with A-list actors like Jang Dong Gun and Kim Ok Bin delivering outstanding performances that truly elevate the drama. Kim Ji Won’s role, while competent, didn’t stand out enough to propel her career further, remaining relatively understated compared to her previous roles.

Despite its high production value and massive fan expectations, the show ultimately left many viewers disappointed. The story, while engaging, didn’t offer much innovation, although it still managed to captivate the audience.

IMDb Rating: 8.3

Audience Rating: 96%

Detective K: Secret of the Living Dead follows Detective Kim Min (Kim Myung Min) as he solves a series of murders in the city of Kanghwa, with the help of his partner Han Seo Pil (Oh Dan Soo). During their investigation, they encounter a mysterious woman with amnesia, who may be connected to the killings. As they uncover small clues, they begin to unravel the truth behind the victims’ identities and uncover long-buried secrets.

The film is highlighted by the stellar performances of Kim Myung Min and Oh Dan Soo. Kim Ji Won’s role as the amnesiac woman is a departure from her usual characters, and she does a remarkable job portraying the psychological depth of the character, leaving a lasting impression on audiences with her innocent yet captivating portrayal.

Detective K: Secret of the Living Dead is the third installment in the popular Detective K series. It was eagerly awaited for its entertaining mix of comedy and suspense. While the plot exceeded expectations in terms of depth, the film’s comedic and emotional scenes didn’t quite hit the mark, leaving some viewers feeling a bit disconnected from the characters’ emotional journeys.

IMDb Rating: 6.0

Audience Rating: 44%

Fight For My Way is a heartfelt story about Choi Ae Ra (Kim Ji Won), Ko Dong Man (Park Seo Joon), Kim Joo Man (Ahn Jae Hong), and Baek Seol Hee (Song Ha Yoon). Ko Dong Man, a kind and somewhat naive man, has always dreamed of excelling in Taekwondo but is forced to abandon that dream to support his sister’s medical bills and make ends meet. His childhood friend, Choi Ae Ra, also had dreams of becoming a TV host but ended up working as a lowly announcer while pursuing her aspirations. Despite their struggles, both Ae Ra and Dong Man continue to chase their dreams while facing the challenges of adulthood.

The series offers a realistic portrayal of young people striving to change and better their lives. The natural chemistry between Kim Ji Won and Park Seo Joon brings their characters’ realistic love story to life. Park Seo Joon shines in his role, effortlessly portraying the sweet and charming Dong Man. Kim Ji Won, known for her more tough roles, transforms into a lovable, fresh-faced girl, adding a new layer to her acting versatility. Fight For My Way achieved significant success and earned numerous prestigious awards for its portrayal of youthful ambition and love.

IMDb Rating: 8.1

Descendants of the Sun tells the story of Captain Yoo Shi Jin (Song Joong Ki) and the beautiful Dr. Kang Mo Yeon (Song Hye Kyo), who fall for each other at first sight. However, due to their differing jobs, their first date ends in disappointment, leading Mo Yeon to end the relationship. The two meet again later on a mission in Uruk, a distant location, where they build a love that faces countless challenges. Alongside them, Yoon Myung Joo and Seo Dae Young share their own difficult love story.

Descendants of the Sun boasts a star-studded cast that left fans eagerly awaiting the collaboration of Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Kyo. Kim Ji Won plays a cold but stunning military doctor who relentlessly pursues her love. Her performance in this role won her widespread recognition for her natural and heartfelt acting.

The show’s unique storyline and captivating characters made it a huge success. It resonated with audiences thanks to the diverse, yet relatable, characters all striving for true love despite their demanding careers. The series' grand production, stunning cinematography, and careful attention to detail in special effects made it visually immersive. The soundtrack, which topped the charts during its run, added another layer to its appeal.

IMDb Rating: 8.3

One Sunny Day follows the story of Kim Ji Ho (So Ji Sub) who meets a woman with the same name, Kim Ji Ho (Kim Ji Won), on Jeju Island after both of them experience similar misfortunes, including getting robbed. The two find themselves staying together at the same guesthouse and slowly develop a sweet, genuine love for each other as they bond over their shared circumstances.

The film stands out due to the chemistry between the age-gap couple, So Ji Sub and Kim Ji Won. Despite the age difference, their acting is flawless and their pairing feels natural and harmonious. The supporting cast also adds a delightful touch to the story, helping to elevate the performances of the lead characters. Kim Ji Won holds her own alongside her senior actor, delivering a beautiful and romantic portrayal of love.

With its predictable happy ending, the movie still manages to leave the audience satisfied. The gentle, soothing soundtrack perfectly complements the dreamy love story, making it even more endearing to watch.

IMDb Rating: 7.6

The Heirs is a classic tale of inheritance, a familiar theme in Korean drama. The story follows the lives of privileged children born into wealth, enjoying the finest things in life from gourmet food to designer clothes. Despite their lavish lifestyles, they long for freedom and a life outside the constraints of their overprotective families. The plot takes a turn when a poor girl enters their world, dramatically changing the lives of these rich heirs and sparking a sweet, romantic love story.

Although Kim Ji Won plays a supporting role, her portrayal of the proud and elegant Yoo Rachel left a strong impression on the audience. Her beauty and confident performance earned her praise, making her one of the standout characters. This role, though unconventional, brought Kim Ji Won several prestigious awards from SBS.

The Heirs became a phenomenon across Asia, culminating in a satisfying, romantic conclusion for the main characters. The series ends with a breathtaking final scene that encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of the journey.

IMDb Rating: 7.5

Tomatometer Score: 67%

Audience Score: 25%

High Kick 3: Family is No.1 is one of the most beloved family-themed dramas in South Korea. Following the success of the previous two seasons, this installment presents a fresh storyline while maintaining the core element of family life, typical of traditional Korean households. The show continues to deliver laughter while imparting meaningful life lessons.

This season introduces a largely new cast of talented actors, including Lee Jong Suk, who plays a struggling high school student, and Baek Jin Hee. Kim Ji Won stands out with her portrayal of a bright, multi-talented high schooler who hides her vulnerability behind a tough exterior. Through her performance, she fully brings to life the character's emotional depth.

IMDb Rating: 8.4

Queen of Tears (2024) is a highly anticipated K-drama marking the return of the 'ratings king' Kim Soo-hyun, after a break from the industry, alongside rising star Kim Ji-won. The show is written by Park Ji-eun, famed for her hit drama Crash Landing on You (2019–2020).

The story centers on the tumultuous marriage of Hong Hea-in, a third-generation heiress of the Queens Corporation, played by Kim Ji-won, and Baek Hyun-woo, the company’s legal director, portrayed by Kim Soo-hyun. Their once fairy-tale romance begins to unravel three years after their marriage, as they face the complexities of life and love, drawing viewers in with their emotional journey.

While the plot isn't groundbreaking, the natural, flawless performances from the lead actors, particularly the electric chemistry between Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won, have received widespread praise from critics and audiences alike. The drama’s first 12 episodes, aired on tvN, achieved an impressive nationwide rating of 20.732%, the highest for the show, with over 5.22 million viewers tuning in, solidifying its success in 2024.

IMDb Rating: 8.3

My Liberation Notes (2022) follows a family living in the rural village of Sanpo, where life is bleak and everyone dreams of escaping to a better future. The story revolves around three siblings – Yeom Mi Jung (Kim Ji-won), Yeom Chang Hee (Lee Min-ki), and Yeom Ki Jung (Lee El) – who struggle with feelings of stagnation and helplessness. Their lives remain stuck in a cycle until a man named Gu (Son Seok) unexpectedly appears, offering the possibility of positive change.

In this drama, Kim Ji-won portrays a withdrawn woman trapped in her own world, unable to connect with others. She fears relationships and feels overwhelmed by them. Eventually, she decides to break free from the walls she has built around herself and transform into a new person. Alongside her, Lee Min-ki and Lee El play characters who also struggle but find ways to change their lives. Gu, Kim Ji-won's co-star, begins to find direction and purpose after interacting with the family.

The series conveys powerful messages about personal growth and overcoming the burdens of the past. It follows the characters' journeys as they strive to free themselves from their internal struggles and break out of the cycles that have held them captive.

IMDb Rating: 8.4

Audience Rating: 90%

Lovestruck in The City (2020) is a light-hearted romance series about three couples, each with a simple love story rooted in their pasts. Their relationships are not extraordinary, yet the ordinary nature of their love brings out the charm of the show and resonates with audiences. These characters live lives like many others, and their unremarkable views on love become the core appeal of the series.

Park Jae Won (Ji Chang Wook), a perfect architect with a passion for new experiences, unexpectedly falls for Lee Eun O (Kim Ji Won), a woman who deceives him using a different identity, Yoon Sun A. This new persona is a stark contrast to the real Lee Eun O. She disappears without a trace, leaving Jae Won heartbroken.

Lovestruck in The City is a simple story, but the cast excels in their roles. The chemistry between Ji Chang Wook and Kim Ji Won, along with their natural acting and flawless appearances, made them the talk of the town, capturing the hearts of many viewers.

The film is beautifully shot with vibrant and romantic visuals, making it a refreshing and effective romantic drama for everyone.

IMDb Rating: 7.6

Audience Rating: 92%