Top 10 Most Searched South Korean Actresses in 2025

The Hallyu Wave’s Unstoppable Rise

The year 2025 marks the complete globalization of South Korean actresses. The Hallyu Wave, which began decades ago, has reached tsunami proportions. K-dramas now compete directly with Hollywood productions for global viewership. Netflix’s investment in Korean content has made household names of actresses who were previously known primarily in Asia. Google search trends reveal unprecedented worldwide interest in South Korean female entertainers.

According to Grey Journal’s 2025 analysis and various fan voting platforms, Korean actresses are now “measured by more than just appearance.” Craftsmanship, drama ratings, genre versatility, and the ability to inspire fans globally all contribute to an actress’s reputation and search volume. The most celebrated actresses today are recognized for their “multidimensional impact,” setting new standards for what it means to be successful in modern entertainment.

Kim Ji-won achieved a career-defining peak with Queen of Tears, reaching 20.7% nationwide ratings. Chae Soo-bin led fan-vote rankings with over 153,000 votes. These metrics demonstrate how Korean actresses dominate not just domestically but internationally. This article analyzes the top 10 most searched South Korean actresses worldwide in 2025.

Methodology: Determining the Rankings

This ranking synthesizes multiple authoritative data sources specific to Korean entertainment:

Fan Voting and Public Polls

Fan-driven polls generated hundreds of thousands of votes. Chae Soo-bin’s 153,000+ votes demonstrate massive engaged fan bases. These votes reflect genuine audience passion driving search interest.

Drama Ratings and Success

Nationwide television ratings (Queen of Tears’ 20.7% peak) and Netflix global viewership determine commercial value and search volume. Hit dramas generate millions of actress searches.

Grey Journal and Industry Rankings

We incorporated Grey Journal’s 2025 analysis, identifying top actresses by influence, versatility, and public resonance. Industry validation matters for determining true impact.

Highest-Paid Actress Lists

Salary information reveals market value. The highest-paid actresses command searches from business and entertainment audiences alike.

Google Search Trends

We examined search volume across South Korea, Japan, China, Southeast Asia, USA, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. International reach determined rankings.

Social Media and Instagram Metrics

While Korean actresses maintain different social media strategies from their Western counterparts, their follower counts and engagement rates demonstrate passionate global fan bases.

Most Searched South Korean Actresses in 2025

Kim Ji-won: The Queen of Tears Phenomenon

Career-Defining Success

Kim Ji-won (김지원) emerged as 2025’s breakout search phenomenon through her starring role in Queen of Tears. The tvN romantic drama achieved an unprecedented 20.7% nationwide ratings peak, the highest for any Korean drama in years. This massive success generated sustained global search interest as international audiences discovered Kim Ji-won’s extraordinary talent.

Early Career and Rise

Born on October 19, 1992, in Geumcheon District, Seoul, Kim Ji-won began her career as a commercial model at age 18. She transitioned to acting with supporting roles in television dramas. Her breakthrough came with The Heirs (2013) and Descendants of the Sun (2016), where she demonstrated her ability to shine even in supporting roles.

Establishing Leading Lady Status

Kim Ji-won proved herself as a leading actress through Fight for My Woman (also known as My Liberation Notes in 2022.) Critics praised her nuanced performance as a woman seeking liberation from mundane existence. However, it was Queen of Tears that truly established her as Korea’s top actress.

Queen of Tears: The Game Changer

Queen of Tears (2024-2025) paired Kim Ji-won with actor Kim Soo-hyun in a story about a married couple navigating a crisis. The drama combined melodrama with unexpected humor. Kim Ji-won’s layered performance showcased her remarkable range from comedic timing to emotional depth. Each episode trended globally on Netflix, introducing her to millions of new fans.

The drama’s success was unprecedented. It dominated social media discussions. Every outfit Kim Ji-won wore sold out immediately. Her hairstyle became the most requested at Korean salons. The show’s finale generated the highest ratings for a TVN drama, cementing her status as a ratings guarantee.

Awards and Recognition

Kim Ji-won has won multiple awards, including Best Actress at various ceremonies. Her performance in Queen of Tears earned her numerous accolades and industry recognition. Grey Journal specifically identified her as one of 2025’s most influential actresses who have “reached a career high, marked by layered acting and commanding presence on screen.”

Search Demographics

Kim Ji-won receives searches from South Korea, throughout Asia, and increasingly from Western audiences discovering Queen of Tears on Netflix. Queries include “Kim Ji-won Queen of Tears,” “Kim Ji-won dramas,” “Kim Ji-won fashion,” “Kim Ji-won Instagram,” and “Kim Ji-won Kim Soo-hyun.”

Chae Soo-bin: The Fan-Vote Champion

Leading Fan Popularity Rankings

Chae Soo-bin (채수빈) dominated the 2025 fan-vote rankings with over 153,000 votes, reflecting unprecedented widespread popularity. Grey Journal specifically highlighted her as capturing “audiences with her bright, approachable energy and grounded performances.” This combination of accessibility and talent generates massive search interest globally.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born on July 10, 1994, Chae Soo-bin began her career with supporting roles but quickly transitioned to leading lady status. Her delicate looks and expressive eyes made her immediately recognizable. However, it was her acting ability that sustained her career growth.

Breakthrough with I Am Not a Robot

Chae Soo-bin’s breakthrough came with I Am Not a Robot (2017-2018), a romantic comedy where she played dual roles. The drama became a surprise hit, showcasing her ability to handle both comedy and emotional scenes. Her chemistry with co-star Yoo Seung-ho captured audiences’ hearts.

Expanding Range Across Genres

Chae Soo-bin demonstrated versatility through diverse roles in A Piece of Your Mind (2020), Where Stars Land (2018), Rookie Cops (2022), and The Fabulous (2022). She moves seamlessly between romance, suspense, action, and contemporary dramas. This genre versatility maintains diverse audience interest.

When the Phone Rings (2024)

Her role in When the Phone Rings (2024) with Yoo Yeon-seok generated significant buzz. The thriller romance showcased her mature acting capabilities. The series trended on Netflix globally, driving international searches for the actress who could handle both romantic chemistry and suspenseful tension.

Consistent Public Visibility

Grey Journal noted that Chae Soo-bin’s “consistent public visibility and strong momentum on social platforms further cement her status as a fan favorite.” Her active engagement with fans through social media and public appearances maintains continuous search interest between drama releases.

Search Patterns

Queries include “Chae Soo-bin dramas,” “Chae Soo-bin When the Phone Rings,” “Chae Soo-bin I Am Not a Robot,” “Chae Soo-bin Instagram,” and “Chae Soo-bin beauty.”

IU (Lee Ji-eun): The Multi-Talented National Idol

Triple Threat Success

IU (아이유), born Lee Ji-eun on May 16, 1993, represents the rare artist who achieves equal success in music and acting. As Grey Journal notes, she is “one of the most dazzling actresses in South Korea” who has “demonstrated outstanding versatility in the fields of acting and music.” This multi-dimensional career generates searches from both music fans and drama enthusiasts.

Music Career Foundation

IU debuted as a singer at age 15 in 2008. She became one of Korea’s most successful solo artists with numerous hit songs. Her music career established a devoted fan base that followed her into acting. This built-in audience ensures sustained search interest regardless of active drama projects.

Acting Breakthrough Roles

IU’s acting career includes memorable performances in Dream High (2011), The Producers (2015), Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016), My Mister (2018), and Hotel Del Luna (2019). Each role demonstrated growing, dramatic depth. Her performance in My Mister particularly earned critical acclaim, with many considering it one of the finest television performances in years.

Hotel Del Luna: Fantasy Romance Success

IU’s starring role in Hotel Del Luna (2019) combined her ethereal beauty with strong acting. She played a hotel owner for ghosts, requiring both comedy and emotional depth. The fantasy romance became one of tvN’s highest-rated dramas, establishing IU as a proven ratings draw.

Brand Endorsements and Business Empire

IU represents numerous luxury and mainstream brands, including Gucci, New Balance, and Estée Lauder. Her estimated net worth of $50 million makes her one of Korea’s wealthiest entertainers. These business ventures generate searches from audiences interested in her commercial success beyond entertainment.

Search Demographics

IU attracts diverse global demographics. Music fans search her discography. Drama enthusiasts search for her acting work. Fashion followers track her style evolution. Queries include “IU dramas,” “IU songs,” “IU Hotel Del Luna,” “IU net worth,” and “IU fashion.”

Song Hye-kyo: The Global Hallyu Queen

International Recognition and Influence

Song Hye-kyo (송혜교) remains one of Korea’s most internationally recognized actresses. Born November 22, 1981, in Daegu, she represents Hallyu Wave’s global reach. Her decades-long career continues generating sustained search interest from multigenerational audiences worldwide.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Song Hye-kyo began as a model before transitioning to acting. Her role in the classic drama Autumn in My Heart (2000) established her as a rising star. However, it was Full House (2004) that made her a Pan-Asian phenomenon. The romantic comedy introduced her to audiences across Asia and beyond.

Descendants of the Sun: Unprecedented Success

Song Hye-kyo’s role in Descendants of the Sun (2016) opposite Song Joong-ki became a cultural phenomenon. The military romantic drama achieved unprecedented ratings and global viewership. The series introduced Song Hye-kyo to millions of new international fans who then searched extensively for her previous work.

Highest-Paid Actress Status

Song Hye-kyo earns 60 million KRW (approximately $54,400 USD) per episode, making her the third-highest-paid Korean actress in 2025. Her estimated net worth exceeds $80 million. This financial success generates searches from business and entertainment media covering Korean entertainment economics.

Fashion Icon and Brand Ambassador

Song Hye-kyo represents luxury brands globally. Her elegant style and timeless beauty make her a fashion icon. She influences trends across Asia and maintains visibility even between drama projects through brand campaigns and fashion event appearances.

Recent Work and Continued Relevance

Song Hye-kyo continues delivering acclaimed performances in dramas like Now, We Are Breaking Up (2021) and The Glory (2022-2023). The Glory particularly resonated globally, with its revenge narrative generating discussion about Korean social issues. The Netflix series introduced Song Hye-kyo to younger Western audiences discovering K-dramas.

Search Patterns

Queries include “Song Hye-kyo dramas,” “Song Hye-kyo The Glory,” “Song Hye-kyo fashion,” “Song Hye-kyo net worth,” and “Song Hye-kyo Instagram.”

Han So-hee: The Rising Breakout Star

Meteoric Rise to Fame

Han So-hee (한소희), born on November 18, 1994, experienced one of the fastest rises in Korean entertainment. From supporting roles to leading lady status in just a few years, her trajectory demonstrates extraordinary talent combined with strategic project choices. Her estimated net worth of $25 million already places her among Korea’s wealthy young actresses.

Breakthrough with The World of the Married

Han So-hee’s performance as a mistress in The World of the Married (2020) showcased her ability to play morally complex characters. Despite playing an unlikable role, her nuanced performance earned praise. The drama became Korea’s highest-rated on cable television history, introducing Han So-hee to massive audiences.

Nevertheless: Establishing Star Power

Nevertheless (2021) established Han So-hee as a leading lady capable of carrying a series. The romantic drama based on a popular webtoon generated significant online discussion and search interest. Her chemistry with co-star Song Kang became a talking point across social media platforms.

My Name and Gyeongseong Creature: Genre Versatility

Han So-hee demonstrated action capabilities in My Name (2021), playing a revenge-seeking woman infiltrating a gang. The Netflix series showcased her physical transformation and commitment to demanding roles. Gyeongseong Creature (2023-2024), a period monster thriller, further demonstrated her genre versatility.

Luxury Brand Endorsements

Han So-hee represents Bvlgari, Balenciaga, and L’Oréal. These luxury brand partnerships demonstrate her premium market positioning. Fashion and beauty searches contribute significantly to her overall search volume as style-conscious audiences track her appearances and endorsements.

Search Demographics

Han So-hee attracts primarily younger audiences. Queries include “Han So-hee dramas,” “Han So-hee Nevertheless,” “Han So-hee My Name,” “Han So-hee Balenciaga,” and “Han So-hee Instagram.”

Go Yoon-jung: The Fast-Rising Beauty

Rapid Ascent

Go Yoon-jung (고윤정) emerged as one of 2025’s fastest-rising stars. Grey Journal specifically identified her as part of the select group “shaping the industry narrative” with her “distinct blend of talent and charisma that defines the current era.” Her beauty and acting skills create a perfect search volume combination.

Breakthrough with Alchemy of Souls

Go Yoon-jung gained widespread recognition through her supporting role in Alchemy of Souls (2022). Her beauty and chemistry with the cast made her a fan favorite. The fantasy drama’s massive success introduced her to international audiences who then searched for more information about the breakout star.

Moving: Solidifying Lead Status

Her lead role in Moving (2023), Disney+’s superpowered series, solidified Go Yoon-jung as a leading actress. The series became one of Disney+’s most successful Korean originals. Her performance demonstrated she could carry a series as the lead actress, not just shine in supporting roles.

Beauty and Modeling Background

Go Yoon-jung began as a model before transitioning to acting. Her striking visual appeal, combined with improving acting skills, makes her highly marketable. She frequently appears on “most beautiful Korean actresses” lists, driving searches from audiences interested in Korean beauty standards.

Search Patterns

Queries include “Go Yoon-jung dramas,” “Go Yoon-jung Moving,” “Go Yoon-jung Alchemy of Souls,” “Go Yoon-jung Instagram,” and “Go Yoon-jung height.”

Kim Tae-ri: The Critically Acclaimed Talent

Awards Recognition

Kim Tae-ri (김태리) represents the highest level of Korean acting achievement. She won Best Actress at the 2025 Baeksang Arts Awards for Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born. This prestigious award validates her exceptional talent and generates sustained search interest from quality-conscious audiences worldwide.

Film Debut: The Handmaiden

Kim Tae-ri’s film debut in The Handmaiden (2016) earned immediate critical acclaim. Director Park Chan-wook’s period psychological thriller showcased her fearless commitment to challenging material. The film’s international festival success introduced Kim Tae-ri to global cinema audiences.

Mr. Sunshine: Period Drama Excellence

Her performance in Mr. Sunshine (2018) opposite Lee Byung-hun demonstrated her ability to handle large-scale period productions. The historical drama about Korea’s modernization period became one of TVN’s highest-rated series. Kim Tae-ri’s portrayal of an aristocratic woman navigating social change earned widespread praise.

Twenty-Five Twenty-One: Modern Success

Twenty-Five Twenty-One (2022) showcased Kim Tae-ri’s range in contemporary settings. The coming-of-age drama resonated deeply with audiences. Her chemistry with Nam Joo-hyuk captured viewers’ hearts. The Netflix series introduced her to Western audiences, introduced K-dramas.

Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born: Award-Winning Performance

Her 2025 performance in Jeongnyeon earned her the Baeksang Arts Award for Best Actress. This recognition confirmed her position among Korea’s finest actresses. The win generated significant media coverage and search interest.

Search Demographics

Kim Tae-ri attracts sophisticated audiences valuing acting craft. Queries include “Kim Tae-ri dramas,” “Kim Tae-ri The Handmaiden,” “Kim Tae-ri Twenty-Five Twenty-One,” “Kim Tae-ri Baeksang,” and “Kim Tae-ri awards.”

Jun Ji-hyun: The Richest Korean Actress

Legendary Status and Wealth

Jun Ji-hyun (전지현), also known as Gianna Jun, remains Korea’s richest actress with an estimated net worth of $110 million. Her combination of acting success, real estate investments, and luxury brand endorsements generates searches from business and entertainment audiences. She represents aspirational success in Korean entertainment.

My Sassy Girl: Cultural Phenomenon

Jun Ji-hyun’s role in My Sassy Girl (2001) became a cultural phenomenon across Asia. The romantic comedy established her as a major star and influenced romantic comedy filmmaking across the region. The film’s enduring popularity ensures continuous discovery by new audiences who then search for her subsequent work.

Legend of the Blue Sea: Fantasy Romance

Her performance in Legend of the Blue Sea (2016-2017) opposite Lee Min-ho combined fantasy, romance, and comedy. The mermaid story achieved high ratings and international success. The series introduced Jun Ji-hyun to Netflix audiences, expanding her global fan base significantly.

Luxury Brand Ambassador

Jun Ji-hyun represents Gucci, Alexander McQueen, and Samsung globally. These prestigious brand partnerships demonstrate her premium market positioning. Fashion and business searches contribute significantly to her overall search volume.

Search Patterns

Queries include “Jun Ji-hyun net worth,” “Jun Ji-hyun My Sassy Girl,” “Jun Ji-hyun Legend of the Blue Sea,” “Jun Ji-hyun Gucci,” and “Jun Ji-hyun real estate.”

Bae Suzy: The Nation’s First Love

Idol to Actress Transition

Bae Suzy (배수지) successfully transitioned from K-pop idol (former Miss A member) to one of Korea’s most popular actresses. Born October 10, 1994, she earned the nickname “Nation’s First Love” following her breakout film Architecture 101 (2012). This dual career generates searches from both music and drama fans.

Acting Career Success

Suzy’s drama credits include Dream High (2011), Gu Family Book (2013), Uncontrollably Fond (2016), While You Were Sleeping (2017), Vagabond (2019), Start-Up (2020), and Doona! (2023). Each project demonstrated her growing maturity as an actress. Her consistent quality work maintains a sustained search interest.

Brand Endorsement Queen

Suzy is one of Korea’s most sought-after brand ambassadors. She represents numerous products across fashion, beauty, and lifestyle categories. Her estimated net worth of $45 million reflects her commercial success. Brand campaign appearances maintain her visibility between drama releases.

Search Demographics

Suzy attracts diverse demographics from K-pop fans to drama enthusiasts. Queries include “Bae Suzy dramas,” “Bae Suzy Start-Up,” “Bae Suzy Miss A,” “Bae Suzy Instagram,” and “Bae Suzy endorsements.”

Park Shin-hye: The Veteran Leading Lady

Long Career and Sustained Success

Park Shin-hye (박신혜), born February 18, 1990, represents sustained excellence across two decades. Her ability to maintain relevance and popularity demonstrates exceptional career management and consistent quality work. She earns 25 million KRW (approximately $22,700 USD) per episode, reflecting her market value.

Career-Defining Roles

Park Shin-hye’s filmography includes iconic roles in Stairway to Heaven (2003, as a child actress), You’re Beautiful (2009), The Heirs (2013), Pinocchio (2014-2015), Doctors (2016), and The Judge from Hell (2024). Each drama achieved strong ratings and introduced her to new audience generations.

Domestic and International Appeal

Park Shin-hye maintains strong domestic popularity while also attracting international audiences. Her dramas consistently perform well on streaming platforms, introducing her to global viewers. Her estimated net worth of $35 million reflects both Korean and international commercial success.

Marriage and Motherhood Balance

Park Shin-hye married actor Choi Tae-joon in 2022 and gave birth to their first child. She successfully balances family life with career, inspiring working mothers. Her ability to maintain star power while embracing motherhood generates admiration and search interest.

Search Patterns

Queries include “Park Shin-hye dramas,” “Park Shin-hye The Judge from Hell,” “Park Shin-hye husband,” “Park Shin-hye baby,” and “Park Shin-hye Instagram.”

Honorable Mentions: Other Highly Searched Korean Actresses

Son Ye-jin

Son Ye-jin’s role in Crash Landing on You (2019-2020) generated unprecedented international success. The romantic comedy became one of Netflix’s most-watched K-dramas globally. Her marriage to co-star Hyun Bin in 2022 generated massive media coverage and sustained search interest.

Kim So-hyun

Kim So-hyun successfully transitioned from child actress to leading lady. Grey Journal noted she “has transitioned elegantly from child prodigy to poised lead actress” with “increasingly mature roles that highlight her control and nuanced performances.” Her estimated net worth of $30 million reflects her consistent success.

Kim Hye-soo

Kim Hye-soo is celebrated for strong, complex female characters in Signal and Under the Queen’s Umbrella. Her maturity and commanding screen presence attract audiences who value serious dramatic work.

Park Bo-young

Park Bo-young is one of Korea’s most versatile and beloved actresses. She excels across romantic comedies and thrillers. Her consistency and relatability maintain a devoted fan following.

Kim Hye-yoon

Kim Hye-yoon experienced a major breakthrough with Lovely Runner (2024), earning a Baeksang nomination for Best Actress. The fantasy romance became a fan favorite, establishing her as a rising star.

Shin Min-ah

Shin Min-ah’s charm and versatility make her a favorite in both acting and fashion. Her work in Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021) generated massive viewership on Netflix. Her estimated net worth of $35 million reflects her sustained success.

Gong Hyo-jin

Known as the “Queen of Romantic Comedies” and “Queen of Ratings,” Gong Hyo-jin’s dramas consistently achieve over 10% ratings. Her combination of mainstream popularity and critical praise maintains search interest.

Lee Young-ae

Lee Young-ae achieved legendary status through Dae Jang-geum (Jewel in the Palace, 2003). She earns 100 million KRW per episode, the second-highest rate in Korea. Her elegance and grace represent timeless Korean beauty.

Factors Driving Search Volume for Korean Actresses

Netflix Global Distribution

Netflix’s investment in Korean content has globalized K-drama viewership. Successful Netflix series generate millions of searches from international audiences discovering Korean actresses for the first time.

Record-Breaking Drama Ratings

Queen of Tears’ 20.7% ratings peak demonstrates how exceptional success drives search interest. Hit dramas generate sustained searches as audiences want comprehensive information about lead actresses.

Fan Voting and Engagement

Chae Soo-bin’s 153,000+ fan votes demonstrate passionate engagement driving searches. Active fan communities create buzz that translates to Google search volume.

Highest-Paid Status

Salary information fascinates audiences. The highest-paid actresses generate searches from business media and entertainment fans interested in industry economics.

Beauty and Fashion Influence

Korean beauty standards influence global trends. Actresses appearing on “most beautiful” lists generate searches from audiences worldwide interested in K-beauty aesthetics.

Genre Versatility

Actresses who excel across romance, thriller, historical, and contemporary genres maintain diverse audience interest. Each new genre attracts different demographic searches.

Brand Endorsements

Luxury brand ambassadorships generate searches from fashion-conscious audiences beyond drama fans. Every brand campaign and fashion event appearance drives search interest.

Social Media Presence

While Korean actresses generally maintain different social media strategies than their Western counterparts, their Instagram presence and fan interactions drive continuous engagement and searches.

Future Projections: 2026 and Beyond

Continued Netflix Investment

Netflix and other streaming platforms will continue investing heavily in Korean content. This investment ensures sustained global exposure for Korean actresses, driving increasing international search volume.

Younger Generation Rising

Actresses like Go Yoon-jung and Kim Hye-yoon represent the future. As they mature and take on more complex roles, they will likely dominate search rankings in the coming years.

Cross-Cultural Collaborations

More Korean actresses may participate in international productions. These collaborations will drive searches from audiences unfamiliar with K-drama culture.

Social Media Integration

Younger Korean actresses engage more actively on social media than previous generations. This digital presence will drive sustained search interest and closer fan relationships.

The Global K-Drama Domination

The top 10 most searched South Korean actresses of 2025 represent Korea’s complete entertainment industry globalization. From Kim Ji-won’s Queen of Tears phenomenon to Chae Soo-bin’s fan-vote dominance to IU’s multi-talented success, these remarkable women demonstrate why Korean entertainment commands worldwide attention.

What makes 2025 particularly significant is the perfect convergence of domestic success with international recognition. Kim Ji-won’s 20.7% ratings in Korea coincided with Queen of Tears trending globally on Netflix. Chae Soo-bin’s 153,000+ votes reflected both Korean and international fan passion. This simultaneous domestic and global success represents the complete maturation of the Hallyu Wave.

These actresses are not merely entertainers. They are cultural ambassadors representing modern Korea worldwide. They are fashion icons influencing global trends. They are businesswomen building multi-million dollar empires. They are role models demonstrating how to balance art, commerce, and personal values.

The future shines extraordinarily bright for Korean actresses. Netflix continues investing billions in Korean content. International audiences grow exponentially. As Korean soft power expands through entertainment, these talented women lead the charge. Global audiences await the next Queen of Tears, the next viral K-drama moment, the next breakthrough performance. Korean actresses are ready to deliver.