As Korean dramas gain more and more global popularity, it’s no surprise that the female leads who grace our screens have become beloved icons in their own right. With their captivating personalities and exceptional performances, these women have won over audiences all around the world. As we celebrate Women’s Month, it’s important to recognize and appreciate the extraordinary achievements of women, especially those who have overcome obstacles in male-dominated fields. The female K-drama leads on our list have not only broken down barriers but also served as powerful role models for women everywhere, displaying strength, grace, and resilience through their performances. Let’s take a moment to acknowledge these remarkable women and the impact they’ve had on the Korean drama industry and beyond.
The World of the Married (2020)
This drama revolves around Ji Sun-woo, a successful doctor who discovers that her husband is having an affair. Instead of simply accepting the betrayal, Sun-woo decides to take matters into her own hands, exacting revenge on those who have wronged her.
Fight for My Way (2017)
This drama centers around four friends who dream of achieving success in their respective fields. Kim Ji-won plays the role of Choi Ae-ra, a spunky woman who aspires to become a news anchor despite facing obstacles and discrimination along the way.
Kingdom (2019-2021)
While not a traditional drama, this historical zombie series features strong female characters such as Seo-bi, played by Bae Doona, a physician who becomes a key player in uncovering the cause of the zombie outbreak.
My Ahjusshi (2018)
Lee Ji-eun plays the role of Lee Ji-an, a young woman who struggles to make ends meet while caring for her grandmother. Despite her difficult circumstances, Ji-an remains strong and determined to improve her situation.
The King: Eternal Monarch (2020)
Kim Go-eun plays the role of Jung Tae-eul, a determined police detective who becomes embroiled in a parallel universe. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, Tae-eul remains strong and resourceful in her pursuit of justice.
Vincenzo (2021)
Song Joong-ki plays Vincenzo Cassano, a Korean-Italian lawyer and Mafia consigliere, who returns to South Korea to retrieve hidden gold from a building that is about to be demolished. But it’s Jeon Yeo-been who steals the show as Hong Cha-young, a sharp and ambitious lawyer who becomes Vincenzo’s ally and partner. Cha-young is a force to be reckoned with, as she takes on corrupt businesses and politicians with her legal expertise and fearless attitude.
Hospital Playlist (2020-2021)
While this ensemble drama doesn’t have a single female lead, it features several strong female characters who work as doctors at a hospital. Chae Song-hwa (Jeon Mi-do) is a skilled neurosurgeon known for her intelligence, professionalism, and calm demeanor in high-pressure situations. She is a compassionate doctor who always puts her patient’s needs first and strives to provide the best medical care possible. Outside of work, Song-hwa is a caring and supportive friend who often acts as the emotional center of her group. She is also a skilled musician who plays the piano and enjoys performing with her friends in their band.
Under the Queen’s Umbrella (2022)
This hit Korean drama follows the story of Queen Im Hwa-ryeong (Kim Hye-soo), who is determined to train her unruly prince sons to become the next king of Joseon. Despite facing fierce competition from rival factions, Queen Hwa-ryeong remains resolute in her efforts, using her wit and cunning to navigate the complex web of politics, alliances, and betrayals. As she tries to balance her love for her sons with her desire to see them succeed, tensions run high, and every decision becomes a strategic one. Through it all, the Queen draws on her strength, wisdom, and courage to forge ahead and secure a better future for her family and kingdom.
The Glory (2022)
Having been bullied in her school days, Moon Dong-eun (Song Hye-kyo) has harbored her grudges carefully and deeply until adulthood. Her meticulously crafted plans for revenge against her tormentors involve subjecting her former classmates to constant misery by exposing and disrupting their daily life.
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