Currently captivating audiences with her nuanced performance as rookie lawyer Kang Hee-ji in tvN's weekend drama 'Seocho-dong', Moon Ga-young's diverse body of work is gaining renewed attention.
Moon Ga-young began her career as a child actress after debuting as a model for educational materials. She caught the public's eye as a vibrant character in SBS's 'Jealousy Incarnate', and has since built a broad acting spectrum, seamlessly transitioning between genres and characters.
In the drama 'Find Me in Your Memory', she portrayed the passionate rising star Yeo Ha-jin, showcasing a range of emotions from bold charm to delicate romantic feelings. By managing her character's social media in real life, she introduced a new model of 'immersive character', marking the beginning of her unique take on romantic leads.
'True Beauty' was a breakthrough role that propelled Moon Ga-young to global stardom. She played Lim Ju-kyung, a character overcoming insecurities to find self-esteem, with a high level of synchronicity to the original webtoon. Her bold performance enhanced the character's realism and charm, solidifying her status as a new icon in romantic comedies.
In 'The Interest of Love', praised for her wide acting range, she played Ahn Soo-young, a high school graduate bank employee navigating love, reality, and ideals. Her restrained expressions and subtle emotions convincingly portrayed the character's complex psychology, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
Even in a special appearance, Moon Ga-young left a strong impression in 'Beneficial Fraud'. As Min Kang-yoon, she delivered a captivating performance with a commanding presence, earning the title of 'flirting master' and generating significant buzz.
In the first half of 2025, she starred in 'That Guy is a Black Dragon', showcasing sophisticated romantic comedy skills as Baek Soo-jung, a realist with strong survival instincts. Her comedic timing in an age-gap romance maximized the character's appeal, driving global popularity and reaffirming her position as a 'rom-com goddess'.
Currently airing this summer, 'Seocho-dong' brings fresh energy to the small screen. Moon Ga-young's stable diction and realistic portrayal of lengthy legal dialogues hint at the birth of another iconic character. Her bright energy enhances the authenticity of Kang Hee-ji, who seeks balance between law and humanity, elevating the drama's immersion. The chemistry among the 'five-member team', each with unique personalities and stories, is depicted warmly and humorously.
Thanks to Moon Ga-young's passionate performance, 'Seocho-dong' continues to break its own viewership records, with episode 6 achieving an average of 6.1% and a peak of 7.6% in the metropolitan area, and an average of 6.1% and a peak of 7.3% nationwide. The drama, along with Moon Ga-young and the cast, is garnering high attention both domestically and internationally.
Moon Ga-young has consistently brought her unique touch to each character, solidifying her reputation as a 'trustworthy actress' with her detailed acting and immersive performances. With her deep understanding and meticulous approach to her roles, she continues to present new facets of herself. As 'Seocho-dong' adds another chapter to her filmography, anticipation builds for her future endeavors.
By Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr