Im Yoon Ah, better known as Yoona from Girls’ Generation (SNSD), is celebrated not only as the “K-pop goddess” but also as a versatile actress with a career spanning television and cinema. Since debuting under SM Entertainment in 2007, Yoona has taken on diverse roles that have proven her range, from romantic melodramas to high-stakes thrillers and box office hits.
Here are 13 iconic films and dramas that secured Yoona’s name in the history of Korean entertainment:
1. You Are My Destiny (2008)
Yoona’s first lead role as Jang Sae Byeok, a resilient orphan, brought her nationwide fame. The 178-episode drama earned her multiple newcomer awards, making her the face of Korea’s small screen.
2. Cinderella Man (2009)
Starring alongside Kwon Sang Woo, Yoona played fashion student Seo Yujin. Her heartfelt performance won her the Most Popular Actress (TV) Award at the Baeksang Arts Awards.
3. Love Rain (2012)
In this melodrama with Jang Geun Suk, Yoona portrayed dual roles across two generations, showing her growth as an actress with nuanced emotional depth.
4. Prime Minister & I (2013)
Yoona charmed audiences as Nam Da Jung, a reporter entangled in a contract marriage with the Prime Minister (Lee Beom Soo). The role earned her recognition for romantic-comedy timing.
5. God of War, Zhao Yun (2016)
Marking her Chinese drama debut, Yoona played Xiahou Qingyi in this historical series. Though reception was mixed, it highlighted her international appeal.
6. The K2 (2016)
Paired with Ji Chang Wook, Yoona’s role as Go Anna, the hidden daughter of a presidential candidate, was a turning point. Her performance in this action-thriller was praised for maturity and intensity.
7. The King in Love (2017)
Set in the Goryeo Dynasty, Yoona portrayed Eun San, a noblewoman caught in a love triangle with a crown prince and his bodyguard. Her elegance and charisma stood out in this historical romance.
8. Exit (2019)
Yoona’s first big-screen leading role opposite Jo Jung Suk became a runaway hit. As Eui Joo, she used wit and physicality in this disaster-comedy, proving her box-office power.
9. Hush (2020)
In this office drama, Yoona played intern reporter Lee Ji Soo, acting alongside veteran Hwang Jung Min. The series showcased her ability to hold her own in a newsroom drama.
10. Miracle: Letters to the President (2021)
A period film set in the 1980s, Yoona played Ra Hee, a politician’s daughter with a bright personality. Her chemistry with Park Jeong Min added warmth to the moving storyline.
11. Big Mouth (2022)
As Go Mi Ho, a fearless nurse and supportive wife to Lee Jong Suk’s wrongly accused lawyer, Yoona won critical acclaim for her intensity and emotional delivery.
12. King the Land (2023)
Yoona returned to rom-com as Cheon Sa Rang, a hotelier known as the “queen of smiles.” Her sparkling chemistry with 2PM’s Lee Jun Ho captivated viewers across Asia.
13. Bon Appétit, Your Majesty (2025)
In her latest project, Yoona plays Yeon Ji Yeong, a modern chef who time-travels to Joseon. Mixing palace intrigue with culinary artistry, this fantasy-romance has already generated immense buzz.
From her breakthrough in You Are My Destiny to Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, Yoona continues to reinvent herself. Each role has reinforced her image as not only a K-pop icon but also a leading actress in Korean entertainment.
Sources: bazaarvietnam
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