The Korean entertainment industry is entering a new era as legendary actresses such as Song Hye Kyo, Kim Tae Hee and Jun Ji Hyun gradually retreat from dominating major awards shows and headline-grabbing dramas. In their place, a new wave of actresses born in the ’90s are steadily proving their talent, popularity and star power. Among them, Moon Ga Young, Kim Go Eun and Kim Ji Won are increasingly recognized by viewers as the industry’s next major stars.
Moon Ga Young’s career-defining win at Baeksang
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 win attracted great attention because she competed against highly respected actresses including Son Ye Jin and Han Ye Ri.
Despite long-standing criticism that her visuals overshadowed her acting skills, Moon Ga Young has gradually built a strong portfolio through dramas like True Beauty, Find Me in Your Memory, and Jealousy Incarnate. Her recent success is now seen as proof that she has evolved into one of the most reliable Korean actresses of her generation.
Besides acting, Moon Ga Young has also become a favorite among luxury fashion brands due to her elegant visuals and sophisticated image.
Kim Go Eun: Directors’ Favorite Actress
While Moon Ga Young struggled with beauty stereotypes, Kim Go Eun faced the opposite challenge early in her career. Many viewers initially underestimated her unconventional images compared to traditional Korean beauty standards. However, his 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. His performances in successful projects such as Goblin, Yumi’s Cells and the hit film Exhuma have solidified his reputation as a versatile artist.
Industry insiders in Korea reportedly describe Kim Go Eun as one of the most sought-after actresses by directors, with many of Chungmuro’s best scripts sent directly to her. Her growing list of prestigious awards further cements her status as one of the strongest actresses of the ’90s generation.
Kim Ji Won’s explosive rise after the Queen of Tears
Meanwhile, Kim Ji Won has transformed from a beloved supporting actress into one of Korea’s top actresses. He first gained popularity through supporting roles in dramas such as The Heirs and Descendants of the Sun before earning praise for starring roles in Fight for My Way and My Liberation Notes.
His career reached another level in 2024 with the huge success of Queen of Tears. While the drama itself drew mixed reactions regarding the plot, viewers largely 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 often trending on Chinese social media platforms.
A new era for Korean drama queens
As Korean entertainment continues to evolve globally, Moon Ga Young, Kim Go Eun and Kim Ji Won are increasingly seen 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 acting talent, and Kim Ji Won as a visual and commercial powerhouse.
Together, they represent a generation that gradually inherits the spotlight once dominated by icons like Song Hye Kyo, Kim Tae Hee and Jun Ji Hyun.
