Since the conclusion of SBS’s drama “Payback” in February 2023, Moon Chae-won has not taken on any new projects. While she occasionally updates fans about her life through SNS, there has been no news regarding her involvement in any upcoming works.
According to a TV Daily report, Moon Chae-won has shown interest in some projects and engaged in discussions about appearing in them. However, she was ultimately not selected by the production teams.
Industry insiders attribute her diminished presence to the “early generational shift” within the entertainment market. A staff member at a mid-sized actor agency remarked, “She failed to establish a distinctive image, and with many replacements emerging, her place in the market has been overshadowed.”
Moon Chae-won, who debuted in 2007 with SBS’s sitcom “Mackerel Run”, is a veteran actress in her 19th year. She gained attention with SBS’s historical drama “Painter of the Wind” in 2008 and rose to fame with works like “Brilliant Legacy”.
Until 2023, she was actively working, starring in leading roles in dramas such as “The Princess’ Man”, “The Innocent Man”, “Good Doctor”, “Goodbye Mr. Black”, “Criminal Minds”, “Tale of Fairy”, “Flower of Evil” and “Payback”. On the big screen, she appeared in successful films like “War of the Arrows”, “Love Forecast” and “Fengshui”.
However, in recent years, numerous younger actresses capable of portraying characters similar to Moon Chae-won’s signature roles—innocent-looking, soft-spoken yet down-to-earth—have debuted and gained recognition, further reducing her opportunities.
The situation has been exacerbated by challenges in the drama and film production markets, which have limited opportunities for all actors.
Not all actresses have been affected equally, however. Several of Moon Chae-won’s contemporaries, or even senior actresses with more years in the industry, continue to thrive and maintain their value in the market.
An executive from another actor agency noted, “Her lack of a media-friendly style, including her relationships with production teams and staff, has contributed to her prolonged hiatus.” Additionally, her inability to establish a strong presence in the “Hallyu” (Korean Wave) market has further diminished her appeal.
Compounding her challenges, Moon Chae-won faced public backlash last July when allegations of fraud involving her family surfaced online, tarnishing her image. In an industry increasingly cautious of risk, questions are being raised about why productions should choose her.
Her extended break has also affected her standing in the advertising industry. Once a sought-after face for fashion, beauty and various other brands, it is now rare to see her in advertisements.
The best way for an actor to regain relevance and extend their career is through consistent work. Many actors strive to remain active through dramas, films, theater and even short-form content. However, with Moon Chae-won distanced from such opportunities, there is uncertainty about whether she can regain her position as an actress and star. All eyes are on whether 2025 will mark the end of her hiatus.