In the world of k-dramas, Kim Go-eun stands out for playing complex, human, and emotionally deep characters — which explains her huge fan base in Brazil and around the world.
If you recently discovered her or already follow her career, check out the essential k-dramas to binge below.
1. Goblin (The Lonely and Great God)
The story in one sentence: An immortal being seeks his human bride to break a curse — but fate interferes at every step.
Kim Go-eun's character: Ji Eun-tak, an optimistic young woman who sees ghosts and plays a crucial role in freeing the goblin.
Why watch? The chemistry with Gong Yoo is one of the highlights of the plot. Kim Go-eun's acting balances lightness, humor, and intense emotion.
Highlight: The k-drama reached over 20% viewership in South Korea and became a global phenomenon, with a memorable soundtrack.
2. Yumi's Cells
Based on a popular webtoon, Yumi's Cells innovated by mixing live-action with animation.
The story in one sentence: A woman's love life and career are guided by "cells" that represent her emotions.
Kim Go-eun's character: Kim Yu-mi, an ordinary worker dealing with relationships, insecurities, and growing up.
Why watch? It's one of the most realistic portrayals of adult relationships ever seen in k-dramas, escaping exaggerated clichés.
Highlight: The series won fans precisely for its identification with real life, something rare in the genre.
3. The King: Eternal Monarch
The King: Eternal Monarch combines romance, science fiction, and mystery.
The story in one sentence: An emperor crosses dimensions and meets a detective who can change the fate of two worlds.
Kim Go-eun's character: Jung Tae-eul, a rational detective — and Luna, her counterpart in another universe.
Why watch? The actress shows her versatility by playing two completely different characters in the same story.
Highlight: Despite mixed reception in South Korea, the k-drama found success internationally on Netflix.
4. Little Women
Loosely inspired by the literary classic, Little Women brings a darker and more contemporary approach.
The story in one sentence: Three sisters become involved in a dangerous plot involving money and power.
Kim Go-eun's character: Oh In-joo, the eldest sister, determined to change her family's destiny.
Why watch? Here we see a more mature and intense version of the actress, far from traditional romantic roles.
Highlight: The k-drama entered Netflix's global Top 10 and received critical acclaim.
5. Cheese in the Trap
Cheese in the Trap marked the actress's television debut.
The story in one sentence: A university student gets involved with a seemingly perfect classmate, but full of secrets.
Kim Go-eun's character: Hong Seol, a realistic student facing emotional and academic dilemmas.
Why watch? The drama stands out for exploring complex relationships and ambiguous behaviors.
Highlight: It generated intense debates among fans and famous "second lead syndrome."
