Kim Ji-won is a powerhouse South Korean actress known for her versatility, emotional depth, and magnetic screen presence. From her early days as a supporting character to leading roles in some of Korea’s most acclaimed dramas, Kim Ji-won has steadily built a name for herself as one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry.
Born on October 19, 1992, in Seoul, South Korea, Kim Ji-won initially trained to become a singer and even worked as a background vocalist for Younha. However, fate had different plans. Her fresh-faced charm and innate acting talent caught the attention of casting directors, and she quickly made her debut in commercials, earning her the nickname “Oran C Girl” for a popular orange juice ad. She officially made her acting debut in the drama Mrs. Saigon in 2008.
Kim’s breakout role came with the high school drama The Heirs (2013), where she starred alongside top names like Lee Min-ho and Park Shin-hye. However, it was her role as the tough and endearing army surgeon Yoon Myung-joo in the international hit Descendants of the Sun (2016) that cemented her status as a top-tier actress. She followed this with acclaimed performances in Fight for My Way (2017), Arthdal Chronicles (2019), and most recently, Queen of Tears (2024), which became one of the highest-rated Korean cable dramas of all time.
Known for her refined elegance and ability to portray emotionally complex characters, Kim Ji-won continues to evolve as an artist, taking on roles that challenge both her and her audience. Despite her fame, she keeps a low public profile, adding an air of mystery to her already captivating persona.
Personal Life
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Original/Real Name | Kim Ji-won |
| Other/Nickname | Oran C Girl |
| Profession/Occupation | Actress |
| Birthplace | Seoul, South Korea |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Age | 32 (as of 2025) |
| Date of Birth | October 19, 1992 |
| Hometown | Seoul, South Korea |
| Caste/Religion | Christian |
| Zodiac sign/Sun sign | Libra |
| Current career status | Active |
Physical Appearance
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Height (cm) | 164 cm |
| Weight (kg) | 45 kg |
| Body Measurements | 32-24-33 |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye’s Color | Dark Brown |
Family Relatives & Siblings
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Father’s name | Not Publicly Known |
| Mother’s name | Not Publicly Known |
| Brother’s name | One older brother |
| Sister’s name | N/A |
Marital Status Affairs Boyfriends Kids & Relationship
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Boyfriend | Rumored: Ji Chang-wook (past) |
| Dating | Not publicly confirmed |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Spouse/Husband | N/A |
| Son | N/A |
| Daughter | N/A |
Education Qualification and Schooling/College
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| School | Paekche Institute of the Arts |
| College/University | Dongguk University (Theater & Film) |
| Educational Qualification | Graduate in Theater and Film |
Controversies
Kim Ji-won has maintained a remarkably clean public image throughout her career. She has avoided major controversies, focusing instead on her acting and personal growth. However, minor rumors about dating fellow actors have occasionally made headlines, though none have been confirmed.
Favorite Things and Likes & Dislikes
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Favorite Food | Tteokbokki, Kimchi stew |
| Favorite Movie | Not publicly disclosed |
| Favorite Actor | Song Kang-ho |
| Favorite Actress | Kim Hye-soo |
| Favorite Color | Pastel Pink |
| Favorite Designer | Not publicly disclosed |
| Favorite Destination | Switzerland |
| Favorite Cafe | Hidden cafes in Seoul |
| Favorite daily wear brand | Comfortable Korean labels like Stylenanda |
| Favorite Book | Classic Korean literature |
| Favorite Athlete | Not publicly known |
Money/Net Worth
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Salary | Estimated $30,000 per episode |
| Net Worth | Approx. $5 million USD (2025 est.) |
Contact Information
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Website | N/A |
| E-Mail Address | Not Publicly Available |
| Phone Number | Not Publicly Available |
| House Address | Seoul, South Korea |
Social Media
| Platform | Link/Status |
|---|---|
| Wikipedia | Kim Ji-won (actress) |
| Not Officially Verified | |
| N/A | |
| @geewonii |
Personal quote:
“I want to be remembered as an actress who moves people’s hearts.”
Early Life and Career:
Kim Ji-won originally trained in music and even sang backup vocals for singer Younha before transitioning to acting. Her youthful beauty and charming aura quickly got her noticed in commercials, and her 2010 appearance in the sitcom High Kick: Revenge of the Short Legged marked her true acting breakout.
Although her early roles were modest, Kim was determined to prove herself. Her participation in The Heirs introduced her to a broader international audience, but it was Descendants of the Sun where she truly shined. Playing a military doctor, she stood toe-to-toe with A-list actors like Song Joong-ki and Jin Goo and held her own with grace and emotional power.
She continued to push herself in roles such as the ambitious Choi Ae-ra in Fight for My Way, the fierce warrior Tanya in Arthdal Chronicles, and most recently, the emotionally layered Hong Hae-in in Queen of Tears—a performance that won her widespread acclaim and multiple award nominations.
Current life/Events:
As of 2025, Kim Ji-won is enjoying the massive success of Queen of Tears, which became one of the highest-rated TVN dramas in history. She is currently reviewing new scripts and is rumored to be considering a major film project for the end of 2025. She remains one of the most bankable actresses in South Korea and is recognized for her quiet charisma and ability to completely transform into her characters.
Facts: Here’s some interesting lesser known facts about Kim Ji-won
- Kim Ji-won once trained to be a K-pop idol and was almost in a girl group.
- She speaks fluent English and has studied abroad.
- Her nickname “Little Kim Tae-hee” came early in her career due to her resemblance to the top actress.
- She debuted in a commercial for a vitamin drink and instantly became known as the “Oran C Girl.”
- She is known for her extremely private lifestyle, rarely giving interviews or appearing on variety shows.
- Kim Ji-won is ambidextrous.
- Despite being shy in real life, she often plays bold, outspoken characters.
- Her dream vacation spot is the Swiss Alps, and she often posts serene mountain photos on her social media.
- She loves cats and owns a Scottish Fold.
- She’s known among crew members for her punctuality and polite demeanor on set.
