Most influential actresses in television dramas

IU, also known as Lee Ji-eun, is a South Korean actress and singer who has demonstrated exceptional versatility in dramas. Her recent success in 2025 with 'If Life Gives You Mandarins' has solidified her status as an influential figure capable of conveying complex emotions naturally.

Kim Ji-won became a global phenomenon with her performance in 'Queen of Tears' in 2024, breaking audience records. Her anticipated return in 2026 with 'Doctor X: The White Mafia Era' positions her as one of the most influential actresses in TV dramas.

Zendaya is an Emmy-winning American actress, recognized for her role in 'Euphoria', who maintains her relevance in TV dramas. The third season of 'Euphoria' in 2026 ensures her continued influence and presence in television.

Ayo Edebiri is one of the most prominent actresses of the 2025/2026 season, praised for her ability to transition between humor and drama. Her acclaimed work in series like 'The Bear' positions her as an influential figure in the current television landscape.

Sophie Thatcher is a young actress who has gained notoriety for her strong presence in horror and science fiction dramas. Her inclusion as an actress to watch in the 2025/2026 season positions her as an influential figure in these television niches.

Bella Ramsey gained significant recognition with 'The Last of Us' in 2023 and takes on the absolute lead in the second season of 2025. Her powerful performance solidifies her as one of the most potent and influential young actresses of the moment.

Jean Smart, with a long career, has experienced a remarkable resurgence with 'Hacks', where in the fourth season of 2025, she delivers a spectacular performance. Her ability to combine humor and emotion maintains her status as an influential actress and in 'a state of grace'.

Han Hyo-joo is a South Korean actress who constantly reinvents herself, captivating the world with 'Moving', Disney Plus Korea's most-watched series in 2025. Her success and her role as an ambassador for luxury brands maintain her as an influential figure in the industry.

Kim Go-eun swept with 'Exhuma', a Korean horror hit in 2025, and continues to surprise with her choice of diverse projects. Her career has reached cult status in 2026, solidifying her as an influential actress for her naturalness and versatility.

Jun Ji-hyun, one of Korea's highest-paid actresses, maintains her 'Hallyu queen' status and her ability to set trends. Her popularity in 2025 and her impact on the industry solidify her as an influential figure in TV dramas.

Crystal Jung returns to the small screen in 2026 with the drama 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' after a nearly four-year hiatus. Her return is highly anticipated and positions her as an influential actress due to her timeless elegance and talent.

Shin Se-kyung is a South Korean actress admired for her serene beauty and a career marked by consistency and versatility. Her presence in the industry maintains her as an influential actress in 2026, with a solid and respected fan base.

Kim You-jung has made an impeccable transition from child actress to solid leading lady, with a natural and luminous charm. Each new project reinforces her image, maintaining her as one of the influential actresses in TV dramas in 2026.

Lim Ji-yeon is a South Korean actress with mesmerizing beauty and an appeal that lies in the perfect blend of vulnerability and visual magnetism. Her presence and character position her as an influential actress to follow in TV dramas in 2026.

Song Hye-kyo, with a distinguished career, starred in 'The Glory' (2022-2023), a resounding success that was Netflix's third most-watched content in the first half of 2023. This maintains her relevance and influential capacity in the drama genre in 2026.

Nana, also known as Im Jin-ah, is a South Korean actress with an imposing presence and ideal proportions. Her agility and ability to perform her own stunt scenes in dramas like 'Mask Girl' solidify her as an influential star in 2026.

Suzy, also known as Bae Su-ji, has established herself as the personification of Korean elegance in the entertainment industry. Her presence and style maintain her as an influential figure in Korean drama in 2026, with a large fan base.

Lee Da-hee is a South Korean actress known for her tall stature and imposing screen presence. She is one of the tallest Korean actresses who are redefining the standard of beauty and power in South Korea in 2026, which makes her influential.

Lee Sung-kyung, a South Korean actress and model, stands out for her height and versatility in acting. Her screen presence and status as one of the tallest actresses maintain her as an influential figure in TV dramas in 2026.