Chae Soo-bin is one of South Korea’s most versatile and beloved actresses, known for her dynamic performances across a wide range of genres. Since her debut, she has consistently showcased her ability to bring depth, charm, and authenticity to every character she portrays. Whether it’s in romantic comedies, historical dramas, or intense thrillers, Chae Soo-bin’s performances have captivated audiences and earned her critical acclaim. Her on-screen presence is magnetic, and her ability to seamlessly shift between various roles, from the quirky and lighthearted to the deeply emotional and serious, sets her apart as a truly talented actress. As a result, she has garnered a dedicated fanbase both in South Korea and internationally. In this article, we will explore the top 10 must-watch Chae Soo-bin movies and TV shows, offering a comprehensive look at the roles that have solidified her place as one of the leading actresses in the Korean entertainment industry.
1. Love in the Moonlight (2016)
In Love in the Moonlight, Chae Soo-bin plays Jo Ha-yeon, a noblewoman whose role significantly impacts the story’s love triangle. The historical drama follows Crown Prince Lee Yeong, who secretly falls in love with a woman disguised as a eunuch. Ha-yeon, who initially seems to be a potential bride for the prince, is a character caught between societal duties and personal desires. Chae Soo-bin delivers a nuanced portrayal of a woman whose internal conflict is explored delicately throughout the series. Despite not being the lead, Chae Soo-bin brings emotional depth to her character, making her a key part of the drama’s success. Her presence in the royal court adds a layer of complexity to the storyline, and her performance is a testament to her ability to shine even in secondary roles. Her portrayal of vulnerability and grace is one of the series’ highlights.
2. I’m Not a Robot (2017)
In I’m Not a Robot, Chae Soo-bin takes on the dual challenge of playing both a quirky human and a robotic impersonation of herself. The show revolves around a man allergic to human contact and his interactions with a woman pretending to be a robot. Chae Soo-bin’s performance is a blend of humor and heart, as she brings Jo Ji-ah to life with both charm and emotional depth. Her ability to seamlessly transition between the robotic and human versions of her character is impressive, highlighting her versatility. As the show progresses, her chemistry with Yoo Seung-ho (the male lead) becomes the heart of the drama, with their growing connection providing the emotional core. The series blends comedy and romance with moments of introspection, allowing Chae Soo-bin to showcase a range of emotions, from playful awkwardness to tender sincerity, making it one of her most memorable roles.
3. Where Stars Land (2018)
In Where Stars Land, Chae Soo-bin plays Han Yeo-reum, a rookie airport employee who is eager but clumsy. Her character’s journey unfolds in a high-stakes environment, where she learns the ropes of working in one of the busiest places on earth. Chae Soo-bin’s portrayal of Yeo-reum is filled with warmth, relatability, and determination. The drama explores not just her professional growth but also her personal struggles, particularly in balancing work with a budding romance. Chae Soo-bin brings authenticity to the role of a character who feels both grounded and aspirational. Her chemistry with co-stars, especially Lee Je-hoon, adds a layer of emotional depth, as their relationship evolves amid the pressure of their demanding jobs. Through Yeo-reum, Chae Soo-bin shows her ability to tackle a role that blends humor, romance, and drama, offering a fresh perspective on workplace dynamics and personal growth.
4. Strong Woman Do Bong-soon (2017)
Although Chae Soo-bin doesn’t play the title role in Strong Woman Do Bong-soon, her performance as In Gook-doo, the police officer who becomes a love interest, is an essential part of the story. The drama centers around Do Bong-soon, a young woman with extraordinary strength, but it’s Chae Soo-bin’s portrayal of the dedicated and principled Gook-doo that provides the perfect foil to the more whimsical elements of the show. As a police officer with a no-nonsense attitude, Gook-doo is often caught between his feelings for Bong-soon and his professional responsibilities. Chae Soo-bin brings a quiet intensity to her role, balancing the drama’s comedic and romantic elements with her grounded performance. Her chemistry with Park Hyung-sik and the way her character interacts with the central storyline make her role memorable, even though it’s not the focus. Her performance is subtle yet impactful.
5. A Model Family (2022)
In A Model Family, Chae Soo-bin plays a pivotal role as the determined and strong-willed daughter of a family embroiled in criminal activity. The series follows a middle-class family that gets involved with the underworld as they try to escape financial struggles. Chae Soo-bin’s character is one who faces immense pressure as she grapples with her family’s situation while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy. Her portrayal of a young woman caught in a moral conflict is filled with raw emotion and complexity. Unlike many of her other roles, this series showcases Chae Soo-bin in a more dramatic and intense light, pushing her acting to new limits. Her performance in this series proves her versatility, as she manages to captivate viewers with a role that requires both emotional depth and a strong sense of determination. This drama adds a darker, more serious tone to her body of work.
6. The Moon (2022)
The Moon is a gripping sci-fi film in which Chae Soo-bin plays a key supporting role as an astronaut on a rescue mission. The movie revolves around the potential disaster of a failed space mission and the efforts to rescue a stranded astronaut. Chae Soo-bin’s role is significant as it highlights her ability to handle intense, high-stakes situations, which is a departure from her usual romantic or comedic roles. Her performance is marked by calm professionalism and emotional depth, as she portrays a character who must navigate the pressure of a life-or-death mission. This role allows Chae Soo-bin to display a different side of her talent, focusing on an intelligent, composed character who works under immense pressure. The film’s stunning visuals and thought-provoking storyline, combined with Chae Soo-bin’s grounded performance, make it a must-watch for fans seeking something beyond her usual genres.
7. My ID is Gangnam Beauty (2018)
In My ID is Gangnam Beauty, Chae Soo-bin plays a supporting role as the best friend of the lead character, who undergoes plastic surgery to meet societal beauty standards. Although her role as the well-meaning, loyal friend could have been overshadowed by the series’ focus on beauty and self-esteem, Chae Soo-bin manages to give her character depth and relatability. Her performance highlights the complexities of friendship and the pressures women face in a beauty-obsessed society. Through her portrayal, Chae Soo-bin showcases her ability to provide emotional support while still holding her ground as a strong, independent character. The series provides a critical look at societal beauty standards, and Chae Soo-bin’s character provides a contrasting viewpoint, offering a refreshing perspective amidst the drama’s themes of appearance and self-worth.
8. The Great Battle (2018)
In The Great Battle, Chae Soo-bin plays a warrior in the epic historical drama that revolves around the siege of Ansi Fortress during the Tang Dynasty. The film focuses on the struggle between the kingdom of Goguryeo and the invading forces of the Tang Empire. Chae Soo-bin’s role as a female warrior demonstrates her versatility, as she steps into a more physically demanding role than her typical romantic or comedic parts. Her character is fierce and brave, contributing to the film’s action-packed scenes while also providing an emotional anchor. Her portrayal of a strong woman in a historical setting adds depth to the film’s exploration of war, loyalty, and sacrifice. Through this role, Chae Soo-bin proves she can hold her own in action-packed narratives, offering fans a chance to see her in a new light. This performance was praised for breaking away from her usual image.
9. The Girl Who Sees Smells (2015)
Though Chae Soo-bin’s role in The Girl Who Sees Smells is brief, she leaves an impression as a character who plays a crucial part in the emotional arc of the story. The series follows a young woman who develops the ability to see smells after surviving a traumatic event. Chae Soo-bin’s character adds layers to the story as she supports the lead characters and helps drive the plot forward. Her presence is one of emotional support and subtle guidance, helping the main character navigate her newfound powers and the challenges of dealing with trauma. This series allowed Chae Soo-bin to explore a role that was more understated yet still deeply impactful. Her performance is proof that even smaller roles can leave a lasting effect when played with sincerity and depth.
10. The Woman Who Still Wants to Marry (2010)
Although an earlier role in her career, The Woman Who Still Wants to Marry is notable for Chae Soo-bin’s portrayal of a young, aspiring woman navigating the complicated world of love and relationships. The drama is about a woman in her 30s who is determined to find love despite societal pressures. Chae Soo-bin’s role is pivotal as the younger counterpart in a complicated love triangle. The character’s struggles with balancing her career aspirations and relationships add layers of nuance to the story. Chae Soo-bin’s early performance in this drama demonstrated her natural ability to handle complex emotional situations with grace. Her role marked the beginning of her career in television and paved the way for future successes, as it showcased her potential in portraying layered, believable characters.
Conclusion
Chae Soo-bin’s impressive career is marked by a diverse range of roles across multiple genres. Whether playing a strong woman in a historical drama or a quirky character in a romantic comedy, she brings each role to life with depth and authenticity. From Love in the Moonlight to I’m Not a Robot and Where Stars Land, Chae Soo-bin continues to capture hearts with her natural acting talent and captivating screen presence. These top 10 must-watch shows and films are just a glimpse of her versatility and ability to tackle various genres. Fans of her work are sure to enjoy the emotional journeys and unique characters she brings to life, and she undoubtedly has many more remarkable performances ahead of her.