What does it take to rise from countless unnoticed roles and become one of the most trusted actresses in South Korea? For Kim Hye-yoon, the answer lies in her passion, persistence, and undeniable talent. Her inspiring journey tells the story of a young actress who turned setbacks into stepping stones, proving that perseverance and hard work can transform dreams into reality.

As a rising star in South Korean cinema and television, she honed her craft through minor roles and captivated audiences with her talent and versatility. Her dedication to portraying characters with authenticity and depth has earned her the title of a trusted actress among viewers. Kim Hye-yoon’s acting career began in 2013 with a supporting role. Her big break came in 2018 when she was selected to play Kang Ye-seo in the popular drama Sky Castle. The role left a lasting impression on critics and viewers, earning her the Best New Actress award at the 55th Baeksang Arts Awards, a prestigious ceremony recognizing excellence in film and television.

Following the success of Sky Castle, she landed her first major role in the fantasy-romance drama Extraordinary You (2019). Her performance as Eun Dan-oh highlighted her ability to lead a show as the main character, solidifying her reputation as a versatile leading actress. That same year, she won both the Best New Actress and Excellence Award at the MBC Drama Awards. In 2021, she made her film debut in the psychological thriller entitled Midnight, playing a young woman who finds herself entangled in a high-stakes game of hide-and-seek, rescued by the deaf protagonist whilst attempting to escape a menacing serial killer. She also starred in the historical comedy-drama Secret Royal Inspector & Joy (2021), portraying Kim Joy, a divorced woman who partners with a royal inspector to solve cases in the Joseon Dynasty. She delivered yet another powerful performance in the series Snowdrop set against a backdrop of political instability, where she portrayed Gye Bun-ok.

In 2022, Kim Hye-yoon took on her first leading role in the movie The Girl on a Bulldozer, where she portrayed Goo Hye-young, a strong and independent young woman forced to step up and care for her brother when her father’s reckless behavior jeopardizes the stability of their family. The movie won critical acclaim and her compelling performance earned her six wins including Best New Actress in Grand Bell Awards and Blue Dragon Film Awards. She also starred in the romantic film Ditto in which she portrays Seo Han-sol, a sweet college student and the first love of the lead character. Kim’s careful approach to acting is evident in her nuanced portrayals of complex characters. In The Girl on a Bulldozer, she delivered a powerful and genuine performance, delving deeply into the character’s psyche. Her ability to convey layered emotions has earned her recognition from directors and audiences alike.

In 2024, she captivated viewers with her role as Im Sol in the time-slip romantic comedy Lovely Runner, which received positive reviews for both her performance and its engaging plot. She has received multiple nominations and awards for her role as Im Sol, including Starfocus’ 2024 Best Actress of the Year in the Asia Pacific award, which recognized her growing popularity and impact in the region. With every role she takes on, Kim Hye-yoon has a remarkable ability to draw the audience in, immersing them in the story with a depth and authenticity that leaves a lasting, emotional impact. She expressed gratitude to her fans through fan meetings and events, strengthening her bond with her fanbase, Hyeppyendings. Celebrating her 12th debut anniversary this 2025, she aspires to connect with audiences worldwide through her performances. Kim Hye-yoon is set to play the lead in the highly anticipated drama Human from Today. In this series, she portrays a quirky gumiho who enjoys the pleasures of the human world while deliberately avoiding good deeds to maintain her immortality. The show promises to be a song of encouragement for the youth, and fans are already excited by the early promotions.

Kim Hye-yoon’s journey in the entertainment industry from supporting roles to lead roles is a testament to her commitment and passion for acting. Even when the dream of becoming a renowned actress felt distant, she persevered with determination. With each project, she continues to challenge herself and expand her artistic horizons, cementing her place among South Korea’s most talented actresses.