The Korean entertainment industry is entering a new era as legendary actresses like Song Hye Kyo, Kim Tae Hee, and Jun Ji Hyun gradually step back from dominating major awards and headline-making dramas. In their place, a new wave of actresses born in the 1990s is steadily proving their talent, popularity, and star power. Among them, Moon Ga Young, Kim Go Eun, and Kim Ji Won are increasingly being recognized by viewers as the industry’s next leading stars.
Moon Ga Young’s Career-Defining Baeksang Victory
One of the biggest moments of 2026 came when Moon Ga Young won Best Actress at the Baeksang Arts Awards for her performance in Once We Were Us. Her victory attracted major attention because she competed against highly respected actresses including Son Ye Jin and Han Ye Ri.
Despite long facing criticism that her visuals overshadowed her acting ability, Moon Ga Young gradually built a strong portfolio through dramas such as True Beauty, Find Me in Your Memory, and Jealousy Incarnate. Her recent success is now viewed as proof that she has evolved into one of Korea’s most reliable actresses of her generation.
Beyond acting, Moon Ga Young has also become a favorite among luxury fashion brands thanks to her elegant visuals and sophisticated image.
Kim Go Eun: The Directors’ Favorite Actress
While Moon Ga Young fought against stereotypes tied to beauty, Kim Go Eun faced the opposite challenge early in her career. Many viewers initially underestimated her unconventional visuals compared to traditional Korean beauty standards. However, her acting skills quickly silenced critics.
Kim Go Eun first gained attention through the controversial film A Muse before becoming one of the most respected actresses in both television and film. Her performances in hit projects such as Goblin, Yumi’s Cells, and the blockbuster film Exhuma solidified her reputation as a versatile performer.
Industry insiders in Korea reportedly describe Kim Go Eun as one of the actresses most sought after by directors, with many top Chungmuro scripts being sent directly to her. Her growing list of prestigious awards further cements her status as one of the strongest actresses among the 90s generation.
Kim Ji Won’s Explosive Rise After Queen of Tears
Meanwhile, Kim Ji Won has transformed from a beloved supporting actress into one of Korea’s top leading ladies. She first gained popularity through supporting roles in dramas like The Heirs and Descendants of the Sun before earning praise for starring roles in Fight for My Way and My Liberation Notes.
Her career reached another level in 2024 with the massive success of Queen of Tears. Although the drama itself sparked mixed reactions regarding its storyline, viewers widely praised Kim Ji Won’s emotional performance, stunning visuals, and chemistry with co-star Kim Soo Hyun.
Kim Ji Won has since become one of the most influential Korean actresses in China, with her fashion and makeup styles frequently trending across Chinese social media platforms.
A New Era for Korean Drama Queens
As Korean entertainment continues evolving globally, Moon Ga Young, Kim Go Eun, and Kim Ji Won are increasingly viewed as the actresses leading the next chapter of Hallyu. Each star has carved out a distinct identity — Moon Ga Young with her elegance and versatility, Kim Go Eun through raw acting talent, and Kim Ji Won as a visual and commercial powerhouse.
Together, they represent a generation gradually inheriting the spotlight once dominated by icons like Song Hye Kyo, Kim Tae Hee, and Jun Ji Hyun.
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