Park So-dam (박소담)

Biography

Park So-dam is a South Korean actress known for her expressive range and dedication to both mainstream and independent cinema. Her interest in acting began after watching the musical Grease in high school. Despite being rejected in nearly 17 auditions during her early years, she persevered and began working in independent films, a move that would shape her into one of Korea’s most critically acclaimed performers.

Career

Early Career & Indie Films (2013–2014)

Park made her screen debut in the short film No More No Less (2013). She soon gained attention in the indie scene with roles in Ingtoogi: Battle of the Internet Trolls and Steel Cold Winter. She also had minor roles in commercial films such as Scarlet Innocence and The Royal Tailor.

Breakthrough & Recognition (2015)

In 2015, Park broke into the mainstream with standout performances in The Silenced, winning Best Supporting Actress at the Busan Film Critics Awards. That same year, she starred in box office successes like Veteran and The Throne. Her breakout came with The Priests, where she played a demon-possessed high school girl earning her multiple accolades including Best New Actress and Best Supporting Actress at the Blue Dragon Film Awards.

Global Fame with Parasite (2019)

Park gained international recognition with her role as Ki-jung in Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite (2019). The film won the Palme d’Or at Cannes and four Oscars, including Best Picture. Her performance was widely praised, and she became one of the few Korean actors invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Television & Variety Work

Outside of film, Park has starred in K-dramas like Beautiful Mind, Cinderella and the Four Knights, Record of Youth, and Death’s Game. She also appeared in reality shows like Three Meals a Day: Uncle Special and Gamsung Camping, showcasing her natural charisma and versatility.

Health and Recovery

In December 2021, Park was diagnosed with Papillary Thyroid Cancer. She underwent successful surgery and later returned to her professional activities, receiving widespread support from fans and colleagues.

Agency Departure (2025)

In July 2025, Park officially parted ways with Artist Company after eight years. The agency thanked her for the journey and expressed full support for her future endeavors. Her departure has sparked speculation in the entertainment industry about her next steps, as she remains one of Korea’s most promising leading actresses.

Filmography

Notable Films:

• Steel Cold Winter (2013) – Jiyun
• Ingtoogi: Battle of Internet Trolls (2013) – Yeonhee
• The Silenced (2015) – Yeondeok
• The Throne (2015) – Moon Sowon
• The Priests (2015) – Lee Young-shin
• Parasite (2019) – Kim Ki-jung / Jessica
• Special Delivery (2022) – Jang Eun-ha
• 幽靈, Phantom (2023) – Yuriko
• The Journey to Gyeongju (upcoming)

Dramas:

• Crimson Moon (2015) – Princess Hwawan
• Because It’s The First Time (2015) – Han Song-yi
• A Beautiful Mind (2016) – Gye Jin-sung
• Cinderella and Four Knights (2016) – Eun Ha-won
• Record of Youth (2020) – Ahn Jung-ha
• Death’s Game (2023) – Death