Beginning

After graduating, Kim worked various internships. A friend saw an audition notice for the play, which had won that year's Spring Literary Contest. She landed the lead role after auditioning, and made her debut in the 2004 play Survival Calendar as leading role.^[7]

The director of the play advised her to formally study theater, leading her to enroll in graduate school. She earned a Master of Arts in Theater and Film from Hanyang University and later a Bachelor of Arts in acting from the Korean Academy of Arts and Sciences. During this period, she recalled, "Every day was a grind, juggling theater and school... I was consumed by a vague, reckless desire to 'I could do it if you just let me!' and it was painful. I was mired in feelings of unhappiness and misfortune."^[5][6]

Breaktrough roles

Kim considers her role in the 2018-2019 play The Critic a breakthrough. Originally written for two men, the production featured two women in the lead roles, which she felt pushed her limits as an actress and helped her gain recognition. Her role in the 2020 tvN drama The Cursed was another turning point, as it provided her with the opportunity to actively pursue a career in visual media. This role led to her casting in the series Hellbound, which she credits for her international recognition.^[6]

Film

Television