Introduction
Kwak Sun-young is one of South Korea’s most talented and versatile actresses, known for her compelling performances across various genres. Since transitioning from musical theater to television, she has captivated audiences with her emotional depth and strong screen presence. From office dramas to crime thrillers and supernatural series, tv shows with Kwak Sun-young highlight her remarkable range as an actress.
In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into her television career, providing detailed insights into each of her notable roles, the contexts of the dramas, and her impact on the industry.
1. Your Honor (2018)
- Role: Song Ji-yeon
- Broadcast Period: July 25 – September 20, 2018
- Network: SBS
- Genre: Legal Drama
- Synopsis: This legal drama follows the story of identical twin brothers, one of whom impersonates the other—a respected judge—after he disappears. Kwak Sun-young played Song Ji-yeon, a character entangled in a tragic case of sexual assault, showcasing her ability to handle emotionally intense roles.
2. Encounter (2018–2019)
- Role: Jang Mi-jin
- Broadcast Period: November 28, 2018 – January 24, 2019
- Network: tvN
- Genre: Romantic Drama
- Synopsis: Featuring Song Hye-kyo and Park Bo-gum, Encounter tells the story of a chance meeting between a wealthy CEO and a free-spirited young man. Kwak Sun-young played Jang Mi-jin, the best friend and secretary of Song Hye-kyo’s character, adding depth and warmth to the drama with her portrayal of a supportive and loyal confidante.
3. VIP (2019)
- Role: Song Mi-na
- Broadcast Period: October 28 – December 24, 2019
- Network: SBS TV
- Genre: Mystery, Office Drama
- Synopsis: This drama revolves around a team managing VIP clients at a prestigious department store, uncovering hidden secrets within the team members’ lives. Kwak Sun-young played Song Mi-na, a working mother struggling to balance her personal life and career while dealing with infidelity and corporate politics. Her nuanced performance in this intense drama earned her significant recognition.
4. Hospital Playlist (2020–2021)
- Role: Lee Ik-soon
- Broadcast Period: March 12 – May 28, 2020 (Season 1), June 17 – September 16, 2021 (Season 2)
- Network: tvN
- Genre: Medical Drama, Slice of Life
- Synopsis: A heartwarming drama that follows the daily lives of five doctors who have been friends since medical school. Kwak Sun-young played Lee Ik-soon, the younger sister of one of the main doctors, Ik-jun (played by Jo Jung-suk). Her character’s long-distance relationship with Kim Jun-wan (Jung Kyung-ho) was a fan favorite, adding emotional depth to the series.
5. Inspector Koo (2021)
- Role: Na Je-hee
- Broadcast Period: October 30 – December 12, 2021
- Network: JTBC
- Genre: Comedy, Mystery, Action
- Synopsis: This series follows a reclusive former police officer who becomes a private investigator and gets caught in a cat-and-mouse chase with a female serial killer. Kwak Sun-young played Na Je-hee, the head of the insurance company’s investigation team, whose sharp instincts and leadership make her an essential player in the unfolding mystery.
6. Behind Every Star (2022)
- Role: Chun Jane
- Broadcast Period: November 7 – December 13, 2022
- Network: tvN
- Genre: Comedy, Office Drama
- Synopsis: A behind-the-scenes look at the chaotic yet exciting world of celebrity management. Kwak Sun-young played Chun Jane, a top-tier manager balancing the demands of high-profile clients and internal office politics. Her commanding presence and comedic timing made her character one of the most memorable in the series.
7. Brain Works (2023)
- Role: Seol So-jung
- Broadcast Period: January 2 – February 28, 2023
- Network: KBS2
- Genre: Crime, Comedy
- Synopsis: This investigative drama follows a neuroscientist and a detective as they work together to solve complex cases. Kwak Sun-young played Seol So-jung, a forensic hypnotist who assists in uncovering crucial details through psychological insights. Her performance added a unique layer to the crime-solving dynamics of the show.
8. Moving (2023)
- Role: Hwang Ji-hee
- Broadcast Date: August 9, 2023
- Network: Disney+
- Genre: Supernatural, Action
- Synopsis: This drama tells the story of individuals with superhuman abilities who must hide their powers to protect themselves from government forces. Kwak Sun-young played Hwang Ji-hee, a mysterious character with a deep connection to the overarching plot, showcasing her ability to shine in fantasy-driven narratives.
9. Crash (2024)
- Role: Min So-hee
- Broadcast Period: May 13 – June 18, 2024
- Network: ENA
- Genre: Comedy, Crime
- Synopsis: A fresh take on crime investigation, this series follows a specialized Traffic Crime Investigation Unit as they tackle unconventional cases. Kwak Sun-young played Min So-hee, a dedicated officer known for her intelligence and quick thinking. This role further solidified her status as a versatile actress capable of commanding diverse roles.
Conclusion
From emotional dramas to thrilling mysteries and supernatural stories, tv shows with Kwak Sun-young highlight her impressive range as an actress. With each role, she continues to prove her ability to bring complex characters to life, making her one of South Korea’s most respected television stars. Whether portraying a caring friend, a fierce investigator, or a character with supernatural abilities, Kwak Sun-young’s performances remain captivating and unforgettable.
As her career continues to grow, fans eagerly anticipate her next projects and the new dimensions she will bring to the screen. If you haven’t watched these tv shows with Kwak Sun-young, now is the perfect time to add them to your must-watch list!
