Dynamic Duality: K-drama Actresses who Shine as both Protagonists and Antagonists

K-drama stars are celebrated for their exceptional acting prowess. They often demonstrate a remarkable ability to excel in diverse roles, whether as protagonists or antagonists. This versatility not only showcases their range as actors but also adds a unique layer of complexity to their characters.

Here are five remarkable K-drama actresses who have mastered the art of playing both heroes and villains.

Kim So Yeon

Kim So-yeon captured hearts as Ma Hye-ri in “Prosecutor Princess,” evolving from a prosecutor who loved shopping and disliked hard work into a brilliant prosecutor driven by duty and justice. However, her performance in “The Penthouse: War in Life” as the antagonist, Cheon Seo-jin, the ruthless and manipulative opera singer, is nothing short of iconic.

Han So Hee

In “Nevertheless,” Han So-hee portrays Yoo Na-bi, a university student entangled in a complicated relationship with a charming yet non-committal classmate. Conversely, as Yeo Da-kyung, the other woman in “The World of the Married,” she sparks a whirlwind of betrayal, vengeance, and intense emotional conflict.

Lim Ji Yeon

Lim Ji-yeon showcases her versatility and range as an actress through her portrayal of two contrasting characters in K-dramas. In “The Glory,” she brilliantly embodies the key antagonist, Park Yeon-jin, the bully, while in “The Killing Vote,” she embodies Joo Hyeon, a determined and principled police officer.

Lee Yoo Mi

Before having Lee Yoo-mi as the happy, smiling, strong, bubbly girl Nam-soon in the drama “Strong Girl Nam-soon,” we had her as the annoying antagonist in “All of Us Are Dead” and the bully in “Everyone is There.”

Kim Hye Yoon

Kim Hye-yoon becomes everyone’s favorite with her portrayal of Im Sol, the protagonist in the latest hit drama, “Lovely Runner.” Her impressive range as an actress is evident from her standout cameo as a bully in “Legend of the Blue Sea” and her role as the selfish and sly telephone operator in “Snowdrop.”

These actresses have proven their incredible range and talent by effortlessly shifting between protagonist and antagonist roles.