When it comes to Korea’s queens of steamy cinema, Lim Ji-yeon is a name that always comes to mind. Though now widely recognized for her emotionally rich and psychologically intense performances, her earlier career was defined by bold choices in 18+ films that left a lasting impression on audiences.
Here are three unforgettable roles that helped solidify her reputation as one of the boldest, and most talented, actresses in the industry.
The Treacherous – A Sensual Tale of Revenge in the Joseon Court
In the provocative historical film “The Treacherous,” Lim Ji-yeon plays Dan-hee, a woman driven by vengeance against the tyrannical King Yeon San. Her father, a victim of the king’s cruelty, sets her on a path to infiltrate the palace. But her mission is complicated by her growing feelings for Sung-jae, a trusted minister of the king.
Set against the backdrop of the Joseon Dynasty, the film is filled with opulence, betrayal, and highly charged scenes. Lim Ji-yeon’s performance stood out for its emotional depth and fearless portrayal, earning her the nickname “queen of sensual scenes” alongside her role in “Obsessed.”
Obsessed – A Forbidden Love That Burned the Screen
Lim Ji-yeon made her explosive film debut in “Obsessed,” co-starring with top actor Song Seung-heon. Set in 1969, the film tells the story of a dangerous affair between military officer Kim Jin-pyeong and Jong Ga-heun, the wife of his subordinate.
The film garnered attention not just for its compelling plot, but also for its intensely passionate scenes. Lim Ji-yeon’s boldness and emotional vulnerability shone through as she fully immersed herself in the role, even appearing fully nude for the sake of authenticity. Her commitment to the part helped elevate the film beyond its erotic framework into a tragic, human love story.
The Glory (2 Seasons) – From Femme Fatale to Cold-Hearted Villain
Unlike her earlier roles, “The Glory” is not an erotic film, but it’s an essential chapter in Lim Ji-yeon’s career. In this Netflix hit, she takes on the chilling antagonist role of Park Yeon-jin, a school bully turned news anchor whose past comes back to haunt her in the most brutal way.
Her performance earned critical acclaim, winning her Best Supporting Actress at the 2023 Baeksang Arts Awards and the Blue Dragon Series Award. While the series didn’t feature the provocative scenes of her past, Lim Ji-yeon’s magnetic presence and layered performance confirmed her growth as a dramatic powerhouse.
Adding to her off-screen spotlight, Lim Ji-yeon’s real-life romance with “The Glory” co-star Lee Do-hyun captured fans’ hearts. Though their characters stood on opposite sides of revenge, in real life, the pair remains a beloved couple in the Korean entertainment industry.
From fiery passion to icy vengeance, Lim Ji-yeon’s range across genres and roles proves why she’s not just a “bold beauty” but a force to be reckoned with in Korean cinema. Whether you’re discovering her for the first time or revisiting her standout performances, these three projects are essential viewing.