Kim Sa-rang Tops Non-Drama Buzz Rankings with SNL Korea Comeback After 8-Year Variety Hiatus
Actress and former Miss Korea Kim Sa-rang is experiencing a dazzling resurgence in the public eye, topping the non-drama buzz rankings following her unexpected return to variety television via SNL Korea.
Kim hosted the third episode of SNL Korea Season 7, which aired on Coupang Play on April 26. This marked her first variety appearance in eight years, following her memorable turn on I Live Alone in 2017—an episode that achieved 8.8% viewership, the highest for the program that year.
Best known for her elegant, serene image in dramas such as Get Revenge and her pageant-winning beauty, Kim took a daring leap with SNL Korea. Her unexpected comedic flair and uninhibited performance style revealed a dynamic, relatable side previously unseen by many fans.
“When I received the offer, I hesitated a lot,” Kim admitted in a press interview. “I questioned whether I could pull it off because it’s such a different domain from my usual work. But I saw it as a meaningful challenge—if I could bring laughter to viewers, then it was worth it.”
Audiences responded enthusiastically. Kim’s skits—filled with wit, self-deprecation, and natural charm—showcased her versatility beyond traditional acting, turning the episode into a breakout moment not just for her, but for SNL Korea, which has been regaining momentum following a slump.
“People usually see me as calm and quiet,” Kim said, “but I also laugh a lot. I wanted viewers to see that more relaxed, human side of me.” She was especially moved by viewer comments: “I read them all—some made me laugh, some touched me deeply. I’m so thankful to everyone who said they missed me or called me funnier than expected.”
Kim, who debuted in the 2001 drama How Should I Be? (tentative title) after being crowned “Jin” at the 44th Miss Korea pageant, has maintained a selective screen presence over the years, focusing on quality projects. Her limited but impactful variety appearances include Music Camp, Ya Shim Man Man, and I Live Alone.
Now, with SNL Korea behind her and buzz at a high, Kim Sa-sang is embracing a new chapter. “I’ll continue to bring my natural self and positive energy to different kinds of content,” she shared. “I think I’ll be able to show sides of me that people haven’t seen before—and I’m really looking forward to that.”
In a landscape where relatability is prized over mystique, Kim Sa-rang’s refreshing authenticity is proving that even queens of elegance can shine brightest when they simply let go and have fun.