She’s a renowned South Korean actress whose captivating performances have left a lasting mark on both the big and small screens. Over the years, she has built an impressive filmography, starring in notable works such as the 1997 romantic drama The Contact, the heartfelt 2013 film Way Back Home, and the intense 2015 action movie Memories of the Sword. Her talent doesn’t stop there—she also delivered memorable roles in popular television series like Shoot for the Stars and Lovers in Prague, further solidifying her status as a versatile performer.
One of the most defining moments in her career came in 2007 when she made history as the first South Korean actress to win the Best Actress award at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival—a remarkable achievement that brought international recognition to her name. Before rising to fame, she honed her craft at the Seoul Institute of the Arts, laying the foundation for a successful acting journey.
On a personal note, she shares her life with businessman and professional race car driver Kang Shi-kyu, whom she married, and together they are proud parents of one daughter. Through her dedication to her art and her balanced personal life, she continues to inspire many, proving that talent, perseverance, and grace can go hand in hand.
She truly shined in the 2005 award-winning drama You Are My Sunshine, where her performance left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike. Thanks to her incredible portrayal, she took home the best actress award at the 2005 Korean Film Awards—definitely a well-deserved recognition. Not long after, she was honored again with the best actress title at the Chunsa Film Art Awards, further proving her talent and dedication. She really made a name for herself that year, and honestly, it’s no surprise why she became such a celebrated figure in Korean cinema. She showed the world what she’s capable of, and from that point on, she continued to be a force to reckon with in the industry.