Kim Go-eun’s Heartfelt Journey in Eun-joong and Sang-yeon

Kim Go-eun delivers a heartfelt role in Eun-joong and Sang-yeon.
Her performance reflects love, grief, and lasting friendship.
A drama that moved fans and sparked deep conversations.

When Netflix released Eun-joong and Sang-yeon, audiences were quick to notice its delicate storytelling about friendship, love, and the pain of letting go. At the heart of this emotional drama is actress Kim Go-eun, who plays Ryu Eun-joong, a woman bound by three decades of shared history with her best friend Sang-yeon (Park Ji-hyun). Through her performance, Kim not only showcased her deep emotional range but also revealed a personal connection to the story, making the series all the more poignant for viewers around the world.

A Role Filled with Fate and Real Emotions

In an interview with Sports Kyunghyang, Kim Go-eun admitted that the script came into her life at a fateful time. She had just lost a close friend two years prior, and the grief remained fresh in her heart. Taking on Eun-joong’s role felt like revisiting those emotions, but it also gave her the space to honor them.

“It felt destined. I could recall the exact emotions of losing someone precious, and I poured them into this role. That’s why this project is so dear to me. Even when I grow older, I’ll look back on it as ‘fate.’”

The drama explores the complexity of friendships, love, admiration, jealousy, and resentment. Kim admitted she herself wouldn’t maintain such a friendship, laughing as she said,

“I don’t think I could. I value relationships that lift me up, not those that eat away at me.”

On set, however, her dynamic with co-star Park Ji-hyun was nothing but warm. Park often brought her chocolate, extra clothes, and small comforts, gestures that strengthened their bond. “We supported each other constantly,” Kim said. “Just like true friends should.”

Fans online echoed this sentiment, praising Kim’s ability to embody Eun-joong’s grief and resilience.

“Kim Go Eun the actress that you are 🌙💥👑🖤”

Global Reception and Lasting Impact

The drama’s reception has been overwhelming, with many highlighting Kim’s performance as its emotional anchor. One debated moment came when Sang-yeon bequeathed a 13 billion won building to Eun-joong, who angrily refused it. Kim joked about the scene:

“Wouldn’t I have to pay massive taxes if I accepted it? Honestly, I’d just feel more exhausted.”

Beyond humor, viewers recognized the scene as symbolic Eun-joong choosing emotional closure over material gain.

International responses also showcased the show’s reach. A former Doosan Group chairman revealed on Instagram that he binge-watched the series with his wife, describing it as heartbreaking yet profound, even making him reflect on assisted dying.

“I cried so much at the end. Kim Go-eun brought life and emotions into this drama!”

Another fan echoed:

“#YouAndEverythingElse death doesn’t discriminate #KimGoeun #ParkJihyun”

Beyond the show, Kim’s personal philosophy impressed many. She revealed that since 2015, she has viewed jealousy not as negativity but as an opportunity to learn. “That mindset shaped me into who I am now,” she said, noting how her humor and positivity on set create a welcoming atmosphere.

With Eun-joong and Sang-yeon, Kim Go-eun has delivered one of her most heartfelt performances, a role that fans and the actress herself will treasure for years to come. The drama not only portrays the fragility of friendship and the inevitability of loss but also sparks conversations about love, dignity, and acceptance.

Sources: Naver, Ten Asia, Netflix, Sports Kyunghyang, Daum, X (Twitter) posts.